Stolen Firearms Possession Defense
In Little Rock, Arkansas
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Little Rock Stolen Firearms Lawyers
Facing an arrest for possessing a stolen firearm in Little Rock, Arkansas? Our experienced stolen firearms attorneys in Little Rock will defend you.
Even if you were not the person who stole the firearm, simply having it in your possession can result in significant legal consequences. When confronting charges related to firearm theft or possession of a stolen firearm, you need the assistance of our Little Rock stolen firearms lawyers.
Possession of a stolen firearm constitutes a felony in Little Rock, and a conviction can result in severe penalties. You might ask yourself, how can I determine if a firearm is stolen?
Generally, if you bought the firearm and no documentation was completed during the transaction, there is a strong possibility it is stolen property. A conviction for this offense can lead to the permanent loss of your gun rights, along with significant fines and an extended jail sentence.
When you are facing charges involving stolen firearms or possession of stolen firearms, the legal team at Lemley DWI & Criminal Defense Lawyers is ready to assist you.
What Is the Possession of a Stolen Firearm in Little Rock?
Under Arkansas law, you can be found guilty of theft if you receive, dispose of, or retain stolen property, including a stolen firearm, when you know the property was stolen or have reasonable grounds to believe it was stolen.
Understanding how Arkansas defines a firearm is also critical when facing stolen firearm charges. In Arkansas, a firearm is defined as any instrument used in the propulsion of a shot, bullet, or shell.
Important Questions to Ask
It is worth noting that even if the firearm is not in working condition, it can still result in a stolen firearm charge.
This means that a jammed or damaged gun can still be included in these charges if the weapon can be repaired and made functional again.
In numerous stolen firearms cases, the person charged with this offense is not the individual who actually committed the theft and may be unaware that the gun they purchased is stolen property.
This may serve as a viable defense. However, prosecutors will attempt to prove that you should have reasonably known that the firearm was stolen.
They may pose the following questions, and it is crucial to consider these questions when purchasing a firearm:
- Was the gun’s price comparable to what it would cost at a retail store?
- How was the gun purchased? Did you meet the seller after dark? Do you have their contact details?
- Where did you purchase the firearm? Was it bought in a location known for criminal activity?
- Does the gun have an intact serial number, or has it been removed?
- Did the seller provide you with a receipt, or was any documentation exchanged or signed?
Based on your responses to these questions, you may not be able to claim that you were unaware the gun was stolen property.
How the Legal Team at Lemley DWI & Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help You
If you are facing stolen firearms charges in Little Rock, it is essential that you secure the services of a criminal defense attorney. At our law firm, our legal team has been serving clients for more than 20 years.
We recognize how overwhelming these situations can be, particularly if you unknowingly purchased a stolen firearm.
Let us stand beside you during this challenging time and provide a robust defense strategy that can withstand scrutiny in court and counter the prosecution’s arguments. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Defenses for Stolen Firearm Charges
Based on the specific circumstances of your stolen firearms charge, several defense strategies may be available.
These defenses can include the following:
- Lack of Knowledge: Often, the primary defense involves claiming a lack of knowledge, or asserting that you were unaware the gun was stolen at the time of purchase. However, prosecutors will attempt to establish that you should have reasonably suspected the gun was stolen when you acquired it. In some cases, a defense attorney can identify flaws in the prosecution’s arguments.
- Innocent Intent: An additional defense may involve arguing that you intended to return the stolen property to its rightful owner. In this scenario, you must have genuinely intended to locate the original owner and return the firearm to them. However, if you retained the gun for personal use and made no effort to return the property, this defense will not be effective in your case.
Little Rock Stolen Firearms FAQs
Q: Can a Felon Own a Firearm in Arkansas?
A: No, if you are convicted of a felony in the state of Arkansas, you are prohibited from possessing a firearm.
This is among the many reasons why, when facing any criminal charges in the state, you should retain an attorney who can work to reduce your charges or seek a complete dismissal of your case. A felony conviction can also result in the loss of numerous other rights, making it critical that you work with an attorney.
Q: How Much Jail Time Could You Get for Possession of a Stolen Firearm in Little Rock, AR?
A: Based on the classification of the charge, you could face an extended prison sentence for a possession of a stolen firearm charge in the state of Arkansas.
A skilled and experienced Little Rock stolen firearms attorney can evaluate your case and pursue a reduced charge, lighter sentencing, or complete case dismissal.
Q: What Are Some Penalties for Stolen Firearms Charges?
A: Beyond extended prison sentences, you may also face considerable fines and the forfeiture of certain rights, including your future right to possess a firearm. You may also experience serious personal repercussions in Little Rock, such as damage to your reputation and negative impacts on your professional career. It’s crucial to retain an experienced lawyer for assistance.
Q: How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Charge in Arkansas?
A: It can be challenging to provide a precise figure for what a criminal defense attorney might charge for their services in the state of Arkansas, as every case and attorney’s fee structure varies. However, certain factors can affect the costs involved in all cases, including the length of the case, the seriousness of the charges against you, and your attorney’s level of experience.
Speak With a Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you have been charged with stolen firearm offenses in Little Rock, you need a skilled criminal defense attorney. The stakes are high in these cases, and you risk losing many important rights if a conviction is secured. Contact the offices of Lemley DWI & Criminal Defense Lawyers today to schedule your initial consultation. Allow us to work diligently to protect your rights, freedoms, and future.