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Castle Rock Weapons Charges Lawyer

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Castle Rock Weapons Charges Attorney

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Firearms ownership is common in Colorado, including in Castle Rock. However, even well-intentioned gun owners can sometimes run afoul of the state’s complex weapons laws. From concealed carry to assault rifle bans, staying compliant can be confusing. Just one misunderstanding can lead to criminal charges.

If you face any weapons violations, having a skilled Castle Rock weapons charges lawyer is critical. Even convictions for seemingly minor offenses can do real damage. They can impact your criminal record, gun rights, and possibly your freedom through incarceration.

At Right Law Group, we defend gun owners facing weapons-related charges across Colorado. We’ve seen prosecutors zealously target technical violations, seeking sentences that far outweigh the alleged crime. Let us protect your rights by developing an aggressive legal strategy aimed at the best possible outcome.

Common Criminal Charges for Firearms Violations in Colorado

In Colorado, prosecutors aggressively pursue weapons charges—even for seemingly minor violations. Some of the most common criminal offenses related to improper firearm possession, use, and concealed carry include:

Unlawfully Carrying a Concealed Firearm

Many Castle Rock residents choose to carry concealed handguns for personal protection. But under Colorado law, it’s a misdemeanor crime to conceal a firearm without the required county permit. There are exceptions for carrying on private property or while hunting or fishing. But otherwise, you need a permit to avoid a concealed carry charge. Penalties include fines up to $1,000 and up to 1 year in jail.

Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person

In Colorado, it’s illegal for certain “prohibited persons” to possess a firearm. This includes previous offenders like anyone convicted of a felony, domestic violence, or child abuse. Simply being charged with such crimes—even without a conviction—can also lead to a prohibited person charge. Penalties range from 1-2 years in prison for a misdemeanor offense up to 4-12 years for a felony.

Illegally Discharging a Firearm

Recklessly firing a gun within city limits is illegal in Colorado under our laws against disorderly conduct. Prohibited use of weapons can also lead to charges like criminal mischief, property damage, assault, or worse if anyone is injured. Penalties vary based on the charges but include fines of up to $750 and up to 120s in jail.

Possession of a Firearm on School Grounds

Bringing a firearm onto school property is a Colorado felony with enhanced penalties. The only exception is with a valid concealed carry permit—and even then, the gun must stay in your vehicle. Possessing a firearm on school grounds can lead to 1-2 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.

Right to Bear Arms vs. Gun Laws in Colorado

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The right to bear arms is constitutionally protected in Colorado. However, the state has also enacted various gun control laws, including expanded background checks and an assault weapons ban. As a gun owner, it’s critical to understand both your rights and your responsibilities under state firearms laws. Unknowingly owning an illegal weapon is an innocent mistake that could cost you your freedom.

Getting a Concealed Carry Permit

To legally carry concealed handguns in Colorado, you must pass a background check and complete approved firearms training. Permits must be renewed every 5 years. Colorado has reciprocity agreements with some 30 other states, allowing permit holders to conceal carry while traveling. But different states have different rules, so verify regulations before crossing state lines with a handgun.

Assault Weapons Ban

In 2013, Colorado banned the sale, transfer, and possession of semiautomatic assault rifles and large-capacity magazines. Those in violation face imprisonment of 6-12 months for a first offense misdemeanor and 4-16 years for a felony. This ban can create confusion about legally owning weapons purchased before 2013.

Penalties to Expect If Charged With a Weapons Crime in Colorado

Weapons crimes in Colorado range from misdemeanors to serious felonies with life-changing punishments:

Weapons Charge Classification Sentencing Range Fines/Fees
Unlawful Possession of a Concealed Weapon Class 2 Misdemeanor 120 days in jail Up to $750
Unlawful Possession of a Weapon on School Grounds Class 6 Felony 12-18 months prison Up to $100,000
Possession of a Weapon by a Previous Offender Class 6 Felony 12-18 months prison Up to $100,000
Illegal Discharge of a Firearm Class 2 Misdemeanor Up to 120 days in jail Up to $750
Providing a Firearm to a Juvenile Class 4 Felony 2-6 years prison $2,000-$500,000

You can also expect to face:

  • Mandatory parole periods
  • Permanent criminal record
  • Loss of gun ownership and concealed carry rights

For most Coloradoans, these penalties far outweigh any crime committed. From mishandling a weapon to misunderstanding our complex gun laws, even responsible gun owners can accidentally commit a serious violation.

castle rock criminal defense attorney

Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer’s Help

Because weapons charges strike at the heart of our freedom and rights, the consequences can be severe, even for minor offenses. Without a weapons lawyer well-versed in Colorado’s firearm statutes, it’s all too easy to plead guilty without realizing the full impact.

At Right Law Group, our mission is to protect the rights of Colorado gun owners. We have an in-depth knowledge of state firearms law and an aggressive strategic approach. Where possible, we fight to achieve charge dismissals or reductions, so clients can move forward with a clean record. In cases involving prohibited persons, we build strong defenses challenging the underlying prohibitions themselves.

Don’t let an innocent mistake turn into a lifelong penalty. If you or a loved one are facing weapons charges in Castle Rock, reach out today for a free case evaluation. Together, we can fight to protect your freedom.

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Colorado criminal procedure

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  • Arrest or
    Summons
    01

    Arrest or
    Summons

    The process begins with either an arrest or a summons. The accused is either arrested or served with paperwork summoning them to appear in court. During an arrest, Miranda rights may or may not be read to you. Officers are only required to recite your rights if they intend to question you about potentially incriminating things.

  • Bond Hearing
    02

    Bond Hearing

    In most cases, you're entitled to have a reasonable bond set after you've been arrested. In situations involving domestic violence, the police will request input from the victim before setting a bond. Bonds are set to ensure that a person appears in court at their court dates. If they don’t show up, they forfeit the money that was paid for the bond.

  • Advisement of
    Charges
    03

    Advisement of
    Charges

    Whether you are arrested or given a summons to appear, the court must make sure you understand what crimes you are being accused of committing. This is called advisement of charges. The District Attorney will detail the specific charges against you, and the Judge has to make sure you understand what possible penalties are associated with that charge in the state.

  • Preliminary Hearing
    (for Higher Felony
    Charges)
    04

    Preliminary Hearing
    (for Higher Felony
    Charges)

    A preliminary hearing is a way for your defense attorney to challenge the District Attorney’s right to bring charges against you by making them prove that there is reason to believe you committed a crime. The Judge is not deciding your guilt or innocence, but rather whether or not there is probable cause to charge you with the crime in question.

  • Pretrial Conference /
    Disposition
    Hearing
    05

    Pretrial Conference /
    Disposition
    Hearing

    This court date comes after your attorney has reviewed all of the reports and evidence in your case. Here’s where your attorney will engage in plea negotiations with the DA. If they can reach an agreement on the case, you may be able to take a plea bargain. If they cannot reach a resolution, your case will be set for an arraignment or trial date.

  • Arraignment
    06

    Arraignment

    An arraignment is the final date for you to decide how you choose to plea. Guilty or not guilty. If you plead guilty, then the case is set for a sentencing date. If you plead not guilty, you and your attorney will then set the case for trial.

  • Motions Hearing
    07

    Motions Hearing

    A motion hearing is when an attorney makes a request that requires a decision from the judge. For example, motions to suppress evidence or statements. These motions can limit the information that goes before a jury if it benefits your case, and there are legal grounds for doing so.

  • Pretrial Readiness
    Conference
    08

    Pretrial Readiness
    Conference

    A pretrial readiness conference is held at some point before trial. It usually is held about a week to a month before the date trial is set to begin. This court date ensures everyone is ready to go to trial on the set date. It is also a time for lawyers to bring up any issues they may have to be addressed before the day of trial.

  • Jury Trial
    09

    Jury Trial

    After a jury is selected for trial, the District Attorney’s responsibility is to present the case to the jury. The DA must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty of the crime. Otherwise, the jury must find you innocent. Your attorney will be able to cross-examine all of the witnesses, present evidence, and ultimately help you navigate this process.

  • Sentencing
    Date
    10

    Sentencing
    Date

    At sentencing, the Judge must decide the appropriate legal penalty for the crime you plead guilty. The Judge’s decision is based on the listed penalties for the specific charge, recommendations from the presentence investigation, your criminal history, as well as statements made at the sentencing by the District Attorney, your attorney, you, and any named victims of the crime.

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Colorado Statutes

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Assault

Burglary

Drug Offenses

Trespass, Tampering and Criminal Mischief

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I be charged for an antique or replica gun?

Yes. Under Colorado law, antique and replica firearms are treated the same as modern guns when it comes to weapons violations.

Do Colorado gun laws apply to ammunition, too?

Yes. There are restrictions in Colorado law on certain ammunition types as well as high-capacity magazines. Violations can result in charges.

Do I have time to legally transfer my guns after a felony or restraining order?

No. There is no grace period in Colorado. Loss of possession rights is immediate upon conviction or the issuance of a protection order.

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer

Protect Your Freedom With Top-Rated Weapons Charge Defense

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At Right Law Group, we’ve helped thousands of Colorado gun owners face serious weapons charges and escape unfair punishment. As former prosecutors, we know how to pick apart a flawed case and leverage every defense. Our attorneys will relentlessly protect your rights inside and outside the courtroom with decades of combined criminal defense experience.

Don’t let an innocent mistake haunt you forever. With over 500 glowing reviews statewide, Right Law Group can give you a chance at dismissing charges or preserving your gun rights. Whether it’s your first run-in with the law or you’re facing serious time, we have the in-depth knowledge of Douglas County courts to build an aggressive defense.

Our attorneys are standing by at three convenient offices across Colorado, ready to help the moment you call. So don’t leave your fate to chance. Contact Right Law Group today for a free case evaluation, and let us fight to keep your record clean. The stakes are too high to go it alone. With us by your side, we can take on the system and win.

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Areas Served

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El Paso County

Douglas County

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Arapahoe County

  • Centennial
  • Englewood
  • Greenwood Village
  • Cherry Hills Village
  • Foxfield
  • Sheridan
  • Columbine Valley
  • Byers
  • Southglenn
  • Castlewood
  • Peoria

Pueblo County

Teller County

Fremont County

  • Coaldale
  • Cotopaxi
  • Hillside
  • Howard
  • Texas Creek
  • Wellsville