Call Us Today - It's Free! Text Us

Colorado Springs Firearm Possession Lawyer

Upholding Your Right to Bear Arms
Awards & Recognition

Being charged with unlawful firearm possession can happen easily, even to responsible gun owners. Colorado’s patchwork of state and local laws contains many intricacies that lead to accidental violations. If you find yourself facing allegations of illegal firearm possession, having an experienced Colorado Springs firearm possession lawyer on your side can make all the difference.

The consequences of a conviction are severe. Beyond hefty fines and possible jail time, these charges stay on your permanent record forever. They can jeopardize future employment, ownership rights, professional licensing, and more. Even displaying a weapon threateningly may result in felony charges.

Fortunately, an experienced firearm lawyer can often get charges reduced or even dismissed by crafting an airtight defense. The key is leveraging our experience with Colorado’s complex gun statutes and case law precedents. We stay up-to-date on the latest laws and court rulings to best protect our clients.

Sentencing, Penalties, and Consequences for Unlawful Firearm Possession

Unlawful firearm possession can lead to severe penalties in Colorado depending on factors like the type of weapon, location, and your criminal background. Understanding the potential sentencing and long-term consequences is critical if you find yourself facing related charges.

Charges for illegally possessing a firearm may be a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances. Misdemeanors generally lead to up to 1 year in jail plus fines, while felonies can involve years in prison and much steeper fines.

Below are typical sentencing ranges for some common firearm possession violations in Colorado:

  • First-time violation of concealed weapon law: Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000
  • Second or subsequent violation of concealed weapon law: Class 5 felony, punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000
  • Unlawful possession of a weapon on school grounds – Class 6 felony punishable by 1 – 1 ½ years in prison and a fine of $1,000 to $100,000
  • Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon — Class 6 felony (as a first offense) punishable by 12 – 18 months in prison (with one-year mandatory parole) and a fine of $1,000 to $100,000

Repeat offenders often face harsher punishments.

Long-Term Consequences Beyond Sentencing

Beyond the direct court-imposed penalties, a firearm possession conviction can negatively impact your life for years to come:

  • Permanent criminal record making employment difficult
  • Potential loss of voting and firearm ownership rights
  • Restricted access to federal benefits like housing assistance
  • Damage to reputation, professional licensing, and social life
  • Increased insurance premiums and denied coverage
  • Immigration consequences if not a U.S. citizen
  • Psychological pain, stress, and lost time/wages from case proceedings

The collateral consequences should be weighed heavily when fighting charges. An experienced firearms attorney may be able to help mitigate penalties and reduce the long-term impacts.

Crafting an Effective Defense Strategy Against Firearm Possession Charges

When facing allegations, we rigorously scrutinize the claims to spot opportunities to challenge charges or negotiate better outcomes. This involves examining factors like:

  • The specifics of the weapon itself, including features, classification, and legality
  • Where possession allegedly occurred, since location impacts legality
  • How the firearm was precisely handled or displayed
  • Licensing status for concealed or open carry
  • Any circumstantial factors like intoxication or threatening behavior

By dissecting the specifics, we often find important nuances that undermine allegations and paint a different picture. Our experience with local firearm laws helps reveal oversights and inaccuracies.

If charges can’t be dismissed, we leverage our courtroom skills to negotiate the best deal possible. This may involve:

  • Getting felony charges reduced to misdemeanors
  • Minimizing sentencing through alternative options like probation
  • Plea bargains dismissing associated charges beyond just possession

We also customize our defense strategy based on the unique circumstances of your alleged violation, including location, firearm details, background, and more. Our knowledge of local courts helps secure favorable outcomes. Don’t rely solely on overworked public defenders. An experienced firearm lawyer can mount robust challenges against allegations or mitigate penalties.

Our Proven Record Achieving Results

We have a proven track record of achieving positive results for clients facing firearm possession charges, including reduction of charges, minimized penalties, and avoiding jail time.

Don’t leave your defense in the hands of overworked public defenders. Contact our Colorado Springs firm today for dedicated counsel from firearm law attorneys. Defending your rights requires experienced legal guidance tailored specifically to your alleged violation. Let us review your case details to determine the best defense strategy.

Don’t Face Firearm Possession Charges Alone

Facing firearm possession charges in Colorado can be daunting, but you don’t have to go it alone. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Right Law Group have helped resolve thousands of firearm and weapons charges across Colorado. As former prosecutors and district attorneys, we have the experience on both sides of these complex cases to build an aggressive defense or negotiate minimized penalties.

Our relentless and zealous advocacy has earned over 500 positive reviews from the clients we have successfully represented. With decades of combined courtroom experience and 3 convenient locations, we have what it takes to help when your freedom is on the line.

Don’t leave your defense to chance – contact our Colorado Springs office today to schedule a free case evaluation with an attorney. Our team is standing by to help you face these charges with confidence. Contact us to get started.

Don’t Let One Wrong Decision Impact Your Life, Job or Freedom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are certain types of firearms completely illegal in Colorado?

Yes, certain types, like short-barreled rifles and shotguns, are completely prohibited under Colorado law. Even having components to assemble such weapons is not allowed.

Is it illegal to possess a firearm while intoxicated in Colorado?

Yes, it is illegal to possess a firearm while intoxicated, even in your own home. The legal limit is a blood alcohol content of 0.08%, the same as for driving under the influence.

Can you be charged for improperly storing a firearm?

Yes, violating firearm storage laws can lead to criminal charges in Colorado, even if the weapon isn’t directly used. Not safely storing guns away from kids or prohibited persons is illegal.

Law Firm Locations