Firearm-related charges can affect your freedom, reputation, and future opportunities. We provide strategic criminal defense representation from the earliest stages of a case.
Weapon Crime Lawyers in North Carolina
NC State Bar Licensed
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6+ Years Experience
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4,000+ Cases Handled
How North Carolina Law Classifies Weapons Charges
The state law prosecutes offenses under multiple statutes based on firearm type, alleged conduct, and criminal history.
| Charge Type | Statute | What It Covers | Penalty Range | Classification |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying a Concealed Weapon | § 14-269 | Carrying a concealed handgun or deadly weapon without a valid permit | Class 2 Misdemeanor to Class H Felony | Criminal Charge |
| Possession of a Firearm by a Felon | § 14-415.1 | A person convicted of a felony who knowingly possesses a firearm | Class G Felony | Criminal Charge |
| Assault with a Deadly Weapon | § 14-32 | Using or threatening to use a deadly weapon during a physical altercation | Class E to Class C Felony | Criminal Charge |
| Carrying a Weapon on School Grounds | § 14-269.2 | Possessing a firearm or weapon on school property or at school-sponsored events | Class I to Class F Felony | Criminal Charge |
| Discharging a Firearm into Occupied Property | § 14-34.1 | Firing a weapon into an occupied building, vehicle, or dwelling | Class E to Class D Felony | Criminal Charge |
| Possession of Prohibited Weapons | § 14-288.8 | Possessing weapons classified as prohibited under NC law, including machine guns | Class I Felony | Criminal Charge |
| Alteration of Firearm Serial Number | § 14-160.4 | Possessing or transferring a firearm with an altered, removed, or obliterated serial number | Class H Felony | Criminal Charge |
Factors that Make Charges More Serious
- Whether the weapon was used or possessed
- Prior criminal history and firearm-related convictions
- Offense occurring in restricted prohibited locations
- Whether the weapon was allegedly used, displayed, discharged, or connected to another criminal offense
- Connection to another criminal offense or violence
- Type and legal classification of the weapon involved
- Valid or expired concealed carry permit status
Consequences of Convictions
- Prison sentences ranging from misdemeanors to felonies
- Permanent firearm possession and purchase restrictions
- Criminal record affecting employment and housing opportunities
- Enhanced penalties for weapons used violently
- Probation, fines, and court-ordered supervision requirements
- Immigration impact, including possible deportation proceedings
- Reputational damage affecting personal & professional relationships
NOTE: Weapons charge outcomes depend heavily on the specific facts, evidence, and statutory provisions. Weapon crime lawyers in North Carolina can review your charges and further suggest the most effective defense strategy.
DEFENSE STRATEGIES
Our Approach to Handling Weapons Crime Cases
Our team reviews the full circumstances of your arrest, existing charge records, and all available evidence early to build a solid defense strategy.
Challenging the Legality of the Search and Seizure
We examine whether law enforcement obtained the weapon through a lawful search and seizure and move to suppress evidence gathered in violation of your constitutional rights.
Contesting Unlawful Possession Allegations
We investigate the facts surrounding how and where the weapon was found and challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove knowing and intentional possession beyond a reasonable doubt.
Disputing Weapon Classification
We examine whether the firearm involved meets the legal definition used in the charge and challenge misclassifications that result in inflated or inaccurate criminal charges against you.
Challenging Felon in Possession Charges
We review prior conviction records, rights restoration proceedings, and factual circumstances to identify viable defenses against felony possession charges filed under § 14-415.1.
Lawful Carry and Permit Defenses
We review licensing records, statutory exemptions, lawful possession circumstances, and other evidence that may undermine allegations of unlawful carrying or firearm possession.
Negotiating Charge Reductions
Where full dismissal is not immediately achievable, we negotiate with prosecutors to reduce felony charges to lesser offenses, minimizing the long-term impact on your record and freedom.
Challenging Evidence Integrity
We scrutinize the chain of custody for all physical evidence, including the weapon itself, and challenge any procedural or evidentiary failures that undermine the prosecution’s case.
Building a Complete Factual Defense
We gather witness statements, surveillance footage, police reports, and expert testimony early to construct a complete and credible defense tailored to the specific facts of your case.
WHY CHOOSE US
What Makes Our Weapon Crime Attorneys Unique
Statewide Courtroom Experience
Regular appearances in Mecklenburg, Wake, Guilford, Durham, and criminal courts across the state, handling related criminal matters.
Deep Judicial Insight
Our attorneys draw on extensive experience handling firearm-related cases in courts to develop effective defense strategies tailored to each case.
Evidence-First Approach
We act quickly to secure police reports, body camera footage, search warrant documentation, and witness statements before evidence is lost.
Available 24/7
Our team is reachable nights, weekends, and holidays because an offense can happen at any time, and your defense cannot afford to wait.
Facing a weapons charge? Speak with a criminal lawyer today. →
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
What Happens After Weapons Crime Arrests
Understand each phase of the legal process and how your criminal defense case progresses.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after an arrest?
Remain silent, avoid discussing allegations with police, and immediately contact a North Carolina weapons defense attorney protecting your constitutional and legal rights.
Does a prior felony conviction prevent firearm possession in this state?
Generally yes. Felony convictions prohibit firearm possession, though limited restoration options may exist depending on conviction type, circumstances, and passage of time.
What is the difference between misdemeanor and felony weapons charges?
Misdemeanor offenses usually involve less serious conduct and shorter sentences. Felony firearm convictions carry longer imprisonment and permanent restrictions.
Can I face charges without actually using the weapon?
Yes. Illegal possession, restricted-location possession, or prohibited-person possession may result in charges regardless of actual weapons use during alleged incidents.
Can a weapons charge be dismissed in North Carolina?
Yes. Charges may be dismissed for unlawful searches, insufficient evidence, procedural violations, or failure to prove the required elements supporting the alleged armed offense.
OTHER PRACTICE AREAS
Additional Criminal Defense Practice Areas We Handle
Property Crimes
Defense for allegations involving robbery, burglary, arson, or other offenses that may involve force, threats, or violence.
Drug & Controlled Substances Offenses
Defense for drug-related charges that may accompany violent crime allegations, including trafficking, distribution, and conspiracy offenses.
White Collar Felonies
Representation in complex felony investigations involving fraud, embezzlement, financial crimes, and related criminal allegations.
Sexual & Child Related Crimes
Defense for charges involving alleged sexual offenses, child-related allegations, exploitation crimes, or offenses carrying severe criminal penalties.
Violent Crimes
Defense for allegations involving assault, robbery, homicide, weapons offenses, and other serious charges carrying significant penalties.
ACT NOW. PROTECT YOUR FUTURE.
Talk to North Carolina Weapon Crime Lawyers Today
The cases move quickly through the criminal court system. Early legal involvement from the Martine Law team gives you the strongest possible defense from the very start of your case.