Austin Weapons Defense Attorney

Weapons Charges in Austin: Your Defense with Lance Kennedy

When you or a loved one faces weapons charges in Austin, TX, you’re likely worried about your future, your freedom, and the impact on your family and career. You need a legal advocate who understands the complexities of Texas weapons laws and the emotional toll these charges can take.

Austin weapons defense attorney Lance Kennedy of Lance Kennedy Law knows firsthand the stress and confusion you’re experiencing. He’s stood beside countless individuals in similar situations, offering not just legal representation but also compassionate and unwavering support.

Whether you face charges for unlawful carry, possession of a prohibited weapon, or more serious weapons allegations, Lance Kennedy is here to guide you through this difficult journey.

Take the first step towards protecting your rights and your future by reaching out to Lance Kennedy Law. We offer you a free and confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore your options. Remember, you’re not alone in this fight.

What Are Texas Weapons Laws?

While Texas is known for its relatively permissive gun laws, the state still has many restrictions and regulations. You need to understand these laws if you face weapons charges.

In Texas, most adults can legally openly carry handguns in a holster without a license, as long as they’re not prohibited from possessing firearms. However, carrying a weapon in many situations can lead to criminal charges.

Some common weapons offenses in Texas include:

• Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon (UCW): This can occur if you carry a handgun without a license in certain prohibited places, such as schools, polling places, or while intoxicated.
• Possession of a Prohibited Weapon: This includes items like brass knuckles, explosive weapons, machine guns, short-barrel firearms, or zip guns.
• Unlawful Transfer of a Weapon: Selling or giving a firearm to someone who’s prohibited from possessing one, such as a felon or someone under a protective order.
• Felon in Possession of a Firearm: It’s illegal for convicted felons to possess firearms in most cases.
• Discharge of a Firearm in Certain Municipalities: Firing a gun within city limits can be a criminal offense in many Texas cities.

These are just a few examples of the many weapons-related offenses in Texas. The specific circumstances of your case will determine the exact charges and potential penalties you face. That’s why you need to consult an experienced attorney like Lance Kennedy, who can explain the nuances of the law as it applies to your situation.

When Do Weapons Charges Become Federal Offenses?

While many weapons charges are handled at the state level, certain circumstances can elevate these offenses to federal crimes. Federal weapons charges often carry harsher penalties and are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys rather than local district attorneys.

Some situations that can lead to federal weapons charges include:

• Interstate trafficking of firearms
• Possession of illegal weapons, such as fully automatic firearms or destructive devices
• Using a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking crime or violent crime
• Possessing a firearm as a prohibited person (such as a felon) if the firearm has traveled in interstate commerce
• Lying on federal firearms purchase forms

Lance Kennedy’s experience as a former U.S. Assistant Attorney gives him valuable insight into how the federal government builds and prosecutes weapons cases. If you face federal weapons charges, you need an attorney who understands both state and federal law to help you build the strongest defense.

What Are Possible Penalties for Weapons Charges?

The penalties for weapons charges in Texas can vary widely depending on the specific offense and circumstances. They can range from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies.

Here’s a general overview of potential penalties:

• Class C Misdemeanor: Fine up to $500
• Class B Misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,000
• Class A Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine up to $4,000
• State Jail Felony: 180 days to 2 years in state jail and/or a fine up to $10,000
• Third Degree Felony: 2 to 10 years in prison and/or a fine up to $10,000
• Second Degree Felony: 2 to 20 years in prison and/or a fine up to $10,000
• First Degree Felony: 5 to 99 years or life in prison and/or a fine up to $10,000

Federal weapons charges often carry even harsher penalties. Some offenses can result in mandatory minimum sentences of 5, 10, or even 30 years in federal prison.

How Can Weapons Charges Affect Your Life?

The impact of a weapons conviction extends far beyond fines and potential jail time.

It can have long-lasting effects on various aspects of your life:

• Employment: Many employers hesitate to hire individuals with weapons convictions, especially for positions involving security or handling sensitive information.
• Housing: Landlords often conduct background checks and may deny housing to those with weapons convictions.
• Education: Some colleges and universities may deny admission or financial aid to students with criminal records.
• Professional Licenses: Certain professional licenses may be revoked or denied due to a weapons conviction.
• Gun Ownership Rights: A conviction may result in the loss of your right to own or possess firearms.
• Immigration Status: For non-citizens, a weapons conviction can lead to deportation or denial of naturalization.
• Personal Relationships: The stress of legal troubles and potential incarceration can strain relationships with family and friends.
• Travel: Some countries may deny entry to individuals with criminal records.
• Reputation: A weapons conviction can damage your reputation in your community and online.

Given these serious consequences, you must mount a strong defense against weapons charges. Lance Kennedy understands what’s at stake and will work vigorously to protect your rights and your future.