If a person has been convicted of any felony offense in any national or international jurisdiction, that person is prevented from lawfully possessing a firearm unless: (1) their rights to possess firearms have been restored, (2) they are carrying out their duties as a member of the armed forces or a state national guard, or (3) they are a law enforcement officer in performance of their duties. There are slightly different rules for juveniles adjudicated delinquent of offenses that would have been felonies if committed by an adult.
The possession of a firearm by a felon in Mecklenburg County can lead to significant penalties and other long-term repercussions. If you are facing charges, reach out to an experienced gun lawyer today.
It is possible for a convicted felon to lawfully possess a firearm if their felony conviction has been pardoned by the Virginia governor, or they have otherwise gotten their right to bear arms restored by the proper Virginia court or proper court in another state (if the felony conviction is from another state). There are also some limited instances where convicted felons can temporarily possess firearms if it is done out of necessity to defend themselves or others, but those are determined on a case-by-case basis.
If a person is found possessing a firearm and has previously been convicted of a “violent felony,” there is a mandatory minimum penalty enhancement of at least five years in prison. If a person is found possessing a firearm and has previously been convicted of any other felony within the last ten years, there is a mandatory minimum penalty enhancement of at least two years in prison. An individual who is facing the penalties for the possession of a firearm by a felony in Mecklenburg County should get in touch with an accomplished defense attorney right away.
The penalties for unlawfully transporting a firearm by a convicted felon are the same as the penalties for unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The most minimum of those penalties without any sentencing enhancements are up to five years in prison, and up to a $2500 fine.
Not all felon firearm possession convictions carry a mandatory minimum. The possible mandatory minimums for these convictions depending on (1) how long ago the felony conviction was, and (2) whether the prior felony was “violent” or not. If there is a mandatory minimum that applies, it will either be a two-year minimum or a five-year minimum jail sentence.
If you are facing charges for the possession of a firearm by a felony in Mecklenburg County, you should seek the services of a seasoned defense lawyer today. A dedicated attorney could fight for you and possibly help you reach a favorable resolution to your case. Call today and set up a consultation with a well-versed legal professional.