Illegal Possession of a Firearm

The 2nd Amendment unequivocally grants citizens the right to bear arms. However, the constitution makes no mention about what kind of weapons we may possess. Michigan law imposes certain restrictions on the type of gun ownership in the interest of public health and safety. These gun restriction laws are heavily enforced, and any violation of the law results in serious consequences that can have negative and lasting effects on your life. If you are accused or charged with illegal firearms possession, contact me today to preserve your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Offenses

There are several classifications of weapons that are illegal under Michigan law. it is illegal to make, manufacture, transfer or possess any of the following weapons:

  • Short-Barreled Shotgun or Rifle. MPC 750.224b
    • Exception: Short-barreled shotguns legally possessed under federal law.
  • Armor Piercing Ammunition. MPC 750.224c
  • Semiautomatic Firearm (modified into a fully automatic firearm) MPC 750.224e.

Penalties

The illegal possession of a firearm is a felony, and a felony conviction may result in jail time, fines, the loss of gun ownership rights, and more.

  • Short-Barreled Shotgun: Felony
    • Up to five years in prison
    • Fine up to $2,500.
  • Armor Piercing Ammunition: Felony
    • Up to four years in prison
    • Fine up to $2,000.
  • Semiautomatic firearm converted to fully automatic (or showing someone how to make such a modification): Felony
    • Up to four years in prison
    • Fines up to $2,000.

No matter what type of illegal weapon you are found to possess, you face a felony and the negative and lasting consequences that come with a felony conviction. It is important to hire an attorney who understands what is at stake and can fight on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

ZAYID LAW’S Defense to Illegal Possession of a Firearm

Illegal possession of a firearm is a serious felony offense that will not only result in jail time and fines, but a permanent criminal record and revocation of all gun ownership rights. Michigan law heavily enforces weapons and firearms laws, and if you are accused or charged with a weapons offense, you need an experienced attorney who understands the legal defenses at your disposal. As soon as you hire me, I will fight for your rights throughout the legal process and ensure your rights are preserved. I will work tirelessly every step of the way and consider every possible legal defense at your disposal, including the following:

  • Illegal Search: The evidence was obtained without consent or probable cause
  • No Warrant: Evidence was obtained without a warrant or via a legally invalid warrant.
  • No probable cause: The police did not have probable cause to arrest you, and, subsequently, search you.
  • Illegal confession: Your Miranda rights were violated and any confession was unlawfully obtained.
  • No Knowledge: No knowledge or information that the firearm in your possession was considered an illegal firearm under Michigan law.
  • The weapon is not considered an “illegal firearm” under Michigan law.

The potential legal defenses ZAYID LAW utilizes depend upon the very specific facts and circumstances of each case. In order to properly assess the applicability of these defense to your illegal firearms charge, call me today for a free initial consultation.