Newport News, Virginia Weapons Charges Attorney

Weapons charges at the state or federal level can result in prison, fines, and a permanent criminal record. In cases involving modification of firearms or the illegal sale of weapons, the actions of investigators and informants can determine whether the charges should be dismissed or reduced.

As a member of the National Rifle Association (NRA) and avid hunter, I understand how gun control legislation within the last 20 years has changed the obligations and legal requirements faced by gun owners and authorized gun dealers. As a criminal defense attorney, I also understand how federal initiatives to target gun owners have resulted in over-zealous, heavy-handed tactics that result in entrapment and harassment of gun owners and gun dealers.

Regardless of whether you're facing weapons charges related to a parole or probation violation or have been accused of modifying a firearm, I have the knowledge and resources needed to defend you. To schedule a confidential consultation, contact weapons defense lawyer John J. Rice today.

State and Federal Gun Laws and Weapons Charges Attorney

The law office of John J. Rice represents clients involving the following:

• Possession of a firearm while an active restraining order is in effect
• Owning a saw-off shotgun
• Owning a silencing device
• Modifying a semi-automatic to an automatic weapon
• Possessing a firearm while on parole or probation
• Carrying a concealed weapon
• Illegal sale of a firearm
• Failure to register a firearm
• Possession of illegal ammunition

Gun Laws - Challenging the actions of Investigators

Federal investigators typically take months - if not years - to investigate a suspect. In weapons related investigations, investigators have used infiltrators and informants. Whether working for the ATF or the FBI, agents and informants have been known to repeatedly goad or approach gun dealers or gun owners in selling them modified or illegal weapons. As your attorney, I closely look at the actions of state and federal investigators, gather testimony from others involved, and expose entrapment and questionable police conduct.

Avoiding Harsh Sentences on Gun Laws and Weapons-Related Charges

Regardless of whether you have been arrested for possession of a firearm while on parole or for an unlicensed sale of a firearm, understanding how prosecutors think is important. While I am prepared to vigorously fight for my client, I am also a skilled negotiator who understands how to arrange a plea bargain when doing so make the most sense. Depending on your prior criminal history and the specifics of your case, it may be possible to arrange a plea bargain in exchange for a reduced charge or sentence.

If you're currently under investigation on weapons charges or have already been arrested, contact weapons charges attorney John J. Rice today and schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your case.