Although Minnesota does not impose as many restrictions on gun ownership as other states, if you are accused of violating one of the gun regulations, you could be subject to significant criminal penalties. In addition, if you are convicted of a felony, you could lose your right to own a firearm permanently.
When facing gun or firearm charges, you should consult a seasoned criminal defense attorney from Kohlmeyer Hagen, Law Office Chtd. A Mankato gun lawyer could advise you of your rights and represent you in criminal proceedings. An experienced lawyer understands how to mitigate the potential penalties of your gun charge to limit the impact on your future.
Minnesota has relatively lenient gun laws compared to other parts of the country. Residents in the state are not legally required to register their firearms, obtain or maintain an owner’s license, or submit to a background check before completing a private gun purchase. Anyone carrying a handgun in public must obtain a permit to carry it before they can do so legally. Those applying for a permit must be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, have completed approved firearms training, and have neither a history of disqualifying criminal convictions or gang affiliation.
Failure to adhere to these restrictions can result in criminal charges and impact a person’s ability to own a weapon. Common gun crimes in Minnesota include:
Depending on the type of offense, one involving a weapon can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. In addition, certain individuals are always prohibited from possessing a gun, including minors and those with a felony conviction on their record. A Mankato attorney could help a person understand any available charges that involve a gun.
Whether someone is charged with a misdemeanor or felony level gun crime, it can carry serious jail time and substantial fines as well as have other adverse implications. First-time offenders typically only face misdemeanor charges, but subsequent convictions can be felonies.
In addition, those convicted of a felony crime in Minnesota cannot own a firearm, lose their right to vote or serve on jury duty and have a criminal record for their life. A permanent criminal record can impact where someone can live or work and strain their personal and professional relationships. Retaining a Mankato gun attorney might be helpful in the following scenarios:
Those charged with a crime involving a gun will need a lawyer who specializes in firearm defense. A tenacious lawyer will understand the nuances of gun laws and can help fight the charges.
You may think that all lawyers are well-versed in both state and federal firearm laws, but you need to make sure the lawyer you hire knows both the laws and regulations and also has firearm experience, whether it is through the military or they are seasoned in hunting, it’s critical they understand firearms.
For those who have lost their gun rights due to a criminal conviction or some other reason, a gun rights restoration lawyer could help modify or reinstate legal rights.
Those denied a permit to carry or purchase a gun can ask a lawyer to help challenge the denial. In Minnesota, you have the right to ask for a review of the reasons you were denied a permit, and this is often best done through the use of a firearms lawyer.
When you have been charged with illegal possession or use of a firearm or another gun-related offense, your rights are in jeopardy. If convicted, you could be subject to fines, prison time, required to surrender your firearm license or lose your future ability to own or possess firearms legally.
Ask a Mankato gun lawyer about your options today. Contact us today. We would be happy to schedule a free and confidential consultation at your convenience.
