Getting Caught for Possessing an Unregistered Firearm

Possessing an unregistered firearm in the District of Columbia carries grave repercussions. Individuals caught with such firearms face criminal charges, hefty fines, and imprisonment. Even in the absence of harm, the possession of an illegal firearm can result in severe penalties like fines, license revocation, and incarceration.

Moreover, penalties may encompass financial liabilities, including court fees and fines. Perpetrators will also be obliged to surrender their firearms and compensate law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, discovery of an illegal firearm could lead to placement on a federal firearms prohibited list, thereby depriving individuals of the legal right to own any firearm. This could also adversely impact employment prospects, as potential employers may refuse jobs or mandate a change.

For elite, expert assistance and representation in navigating the intricate realm of local and federal firearm regulations, reach out to an expert gun charge defense attorney from Ervin Kibria Law.

What Constitutes an Unregistered Firearm?

An unregistered firearm is a weapon lacking registration with the relevant authorities and lacking a serial number or any identifiable markings. Typically acquired or traded without undergoing the necessary registration procedures, possession or use of such firearms is illegal in numerous jurisdictions. This is what authorities refer to as a “dirty gun.”

Unregistered guns can play a significant role in criminal acts since they're hard to track and can change hands/owners easily. Anyone caught with an unregistered gun usually faces severe penalties.

Penalties for Possession of Unregistered Firearms

If someone is found with an unregistered gun in a public place, they'll be arrested, charges and processed . Law enforcement will record a mug shot photo and obtain fingerprints. The case will then be sent to the US Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia go to be prosecuted.

The court  will officially inform the defendant of the firearm charges. If caught with an unregistered gun in public, they should expect legal consequences, which can vary based on factors like the type of gun and where it was found.

Consequences for having firearms without a valid license may include fines, a criminal record, prison, and even losing the right to own guns, as well as other impacts like losing jobs or facing difficulties with renting homes, and failure to obtain visas. It's important to realize that having an unregistered gun can have serious personal and professional consequences.

Types of Firearms

Firearms vary in shape and size, are tailored to specific purposes, and are governed by state or national regulations. They generally fall into four categories: handguns, rifles, shotguns, and other miscellaneous weapons, all of which require a carry permit.

• Handguns, compact and wieldy, are primarily designed for single-handed use. They can manifest as revolvers or semi-automatic pistols, typically discharging one round per trigger pull.
• Rifles, comparatively larger in caliber, possess the capability to discharge multiple rounds rapidly.
• Shotguns are specialized for dispersing multiple pellets simultaneously, while miscellaneous weapons encompass a range of options, such as machine guns, submachine guns, and assault rifles.

Handguns:

Owning a handgun constitutes a significant firearm offense and is subject to registration requirements in many states. Depending on the jurisdiction, possessing a handgun illegally can lead to criminal prosecution and significant financial penalties, potentially leading to imprisonment upon conviction.

Rifles:

Possession of an unregistered rifle in the United States carries severe repercussions. Depending on the state and circumstances, such as whether the rifle is loaded or classified as an assault weapon, charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies. Any form of unregistered firearm possession is a criminal offense, carrying severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms, substantial fines, or both.

Shotguns:

Shotguns, commonly utilized for hunting and recreational purposes like skeet shooting, are regulated by law across various jurisdictions due to their potential danger if mishandled or used unlawfully. It is imperative to grasp the legal obligations concerning shotgun ownership and usage before acquiring one.

In numerous jurisdictions, the ownership of shotguns necessitates registration, a process typically facilitated through the local police department. Possession of an unregistered shotgun constitutes a serious criminal offense, carrying potential penalties such as fines, felony convictions, imprisonment, and other punitive measures.

Destructive Devices

Destructive Devices, often abbreviated as DDs, encompass a range of heavily regulated weapons that mandate special permits for ownership. This category includes firearms designated as destructive, explosives, specific types of ammunition and accessories, as well as certain other items like firearm silencers.

Individuals found in unlawful possession of unregistered firearms without the requisite permits or licenses may be subject to criminal charges.

Loaded vs Unloaded Firearms

A loaded firearm contains ammunition in the chamber, magazine, clip, or cylinder, making it ready to be fired instantly. Conversely, an unloaded firearm lacks any ammunition and requires loading before it can discharge.

It's crucial to understand that even if a firearm is unloaded, it might still be deemed "concealed" according to specific laws, potentially leading to legal consequences.

What Constitutes a Loaded Firearm?

A loaded firearm signifies that it is primed for firing, housing ammunition in the chamber. This applies universally, regardless of whether the firearm is registered or unregistered. However, an unregistered firearm would likely be unlawful, carrying heavier penalties if uncovered by law enforcement.

The legal definition of a loaded firearm varies by state, generally encompassing the presence of live ammunition in the chamber, magazine, clip, or cylinder. Additionally, if live ammunition is in close proximity to an unloaded firearm, it may still be deemed loaded under the law.

Unregistered Firearms: Risks and Ramifications

Even when unloaded, firearms pose significant risks if not legally registered or handled with care. Possessing an unregistered firearm illegally can carry severe consequences, including potential imprisonment, substantial fines, and other punitive measures, depending on jurisdiction.

To steer clear of criminal charges for having an unloaded gun, ensure it's registered with local law enforcement. Not doing so could lead to significant penalties if the authorities find the firearm.

Contact Ervin Kibria Law Now!

If you've found yourself arrested and charged for being in possession of an unregistered firearm, it's crucial to reach out to a seasoned, expert, elite criminal defense attorney promptly. The consequences of such a situation can be severe, spanning from monetary fines to imprisonment.

That's why immediate action is necessary; get in touch with Ervin Kibria Law for top-tier legal support. Our elite criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights and navigating  the intricacies of the legal process. Reach out today to arrange a consultation and initiate your defense against unregistered firearm charges.