Weapons Charges Attorney in Northwest Indiana

Indiana has some of the loosest gun laws in the United States. But that doesn’t mean you have an unlimited right to buy, possess, or carry a firearm in the state. There are several gun laws that you should be aware of so you don’t face weapons charges. 

If you are hit with an Indiana weapons charge, you must work with a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Contact the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell if you have questions about a weapons charge. 

Indiana Weapons Offenses

In Indiana, it is against the law to carry a handgun on your body or in your car without a concealed-carry permit unless: 

• You are in your home or property or have the permission of the owner to carry the weapon
• You are hunting, at a range, or going to a firearms class
• The gun is not loaded and is stored in an appropriate container in the car

Several weapons offenses in Indiana involve the illegal use or possession of a firearm: 

Brandishing a Weapon

It is against the law for you to knowingly or intentionally point a gun at someone else. However, this does not apply if you point a firearm in self-defense or are a police officer acting in your official duties. 

Brandishing a weapon in Indiana is a Level 6 felony, and you can be punished by up to 2.5 years in jail. In addition, fines can be up to $10,000. But if the gun was not loaded, it may only be a Class A misdemeanor. 

Possessing A Firearm On School Grounds

Unless you have a legal reason to possess a gun on school grounds, this weapons charge may be a Class 6 felony. It is illegal in most cases to possess a firearm on school property or on a school bus. 

Possessing An Illegal Weapon

Several Indiana laws make it illegal to possess a variety of weapons, including: 

• Sawed-off shotgun
• Switchblade
• Chemical and biological weapons
• Knives with detachable blades
• Machine gun
• Armor-piercing handgun ammunition 
• Nuclear weapons 

The seriousness of the charge depends on the kind of weapon you have. For example, illegally possessing certain types of knives may be a misdemeanor. However, the illegal possession of a machine gun could be a Level 4 or Level 5 felony. A Level 4 felony conviction can result in a 12-year sentence and a $10,000 fine. 

Remember that Indiana weapons laws can change at any time. So it is wise to regularly review the latest gun regulations to ensure you are within the law. 

Contact A Crown Point, In, Weapons Charges Attorney Now

If you face a weapons charge, there could be severe consequences if you’re convicted. That’s why you should contact the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell. The sooner you work with an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better your defense will be. 

Our Crown Point, IN, weapons charges attorneys will work closely with you to construct a strong defense. Please contact us today with our online contact form.