How Much Does a Gun Charge Cost? (The Ultimate Guide)
| State | Charge | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| California | Carrying a loaded firearm without a permit | Up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000 |
| New York | Possession of a loaded firearm without a license | Up to 7 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000 |
| Texas | Unlawful carrying of a weapon | Up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000 |
How Much Is A Gun Charge?
The penalties for gun charges vary depending on the type of charge, the circumstances of the offense, and the defendant’s criminal history. However, gun charges can carry serious penalties, including jail time, fines, and loss of gun rights.
Types of Gun Charges
There are a variety of different gun charges that a person can be charged with, including:
- Possession of a firearm by a felon. This is a felony offense that is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
- Carrying a concealed weapon. This is a misdemeanor offense that is punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
- Unlawful discharge of a firearm. This is a felony offense that is punishable by up to 3 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Brandishing a weapon. This is a misdemeanor offense that is punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
- Assault with a deadly weapon. This is a felony offense that is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
- Murder. This is a felony offense that is punishable by up to life in prison or death.
Circumstances of the Offense
The penalties for a gun charge can also be increased if the offense was committed in certain circumstances, such as:
- If the gun was used in the commission of another crime, such as a robbery or assault.
- If the gun was possessed by a minor.
- If the gun was possessed in a school zone.
- If the gun was possessed by a person who is prohibited from owning a gun, such as a convicted felon.
Criminal History
A person’s criminal history can also affect the penalties for a gun charge. A person who has a prior conviction for a gun crime will likely face more severe penalties for a subsequent gun offense.
Penalties for Gun Charges
The penalties for a gun charge can include:
- Jail time. The length of jail time for a gun charge can vary depending on the type of charge, the circumstances of the offense, and the defendant’s criminal history. However, gun charges can carry jail sentences of up to 10 years or more.
- Fines. The amount of the fine for a gun charge can vary depending on the type of charge, the circumstances of the offense, and the defendant’s criminal history. However, gun charges can carry fines of up to $250,000 or more.
- Loss of gun rights. A person who is convicted of a gun charge may lose their right to own or possess a gun. This loss of gun rights can be permanent or for a specific period of time.
Gun charges can carry serious penalties, including jail time, fines, and loss of gun rights. If you are facing a gun charge, it is important to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and protect your rights.