Oregon Weapons Charges Law Firm
Laws regarding the possession and use of firearms in the state continue to evolve since two recent United States Supreme Court cases. In 2008 the Supreme Court held that the Second Amendment to the Constitution protects an individual right to possess firearms. While the decision itself seemed to indicate that longstanding restrictions on the right to possess firearms – for example the prohibitions concerning felons possessing firearms would nonetheless survive, many state and local restrictions on weapons have become constitutionally suspect. This was further confirmed in 2010 when the Court held that the Second Amendment applies with equal force to state and local governments.
Oregon statutes prohibit such things as the possession of firearms by felons and those deemed "mentally ill," the carrying of a concealed firearm, the possession of certain types of firearms, the possession of firearms in certain locations, and the use of firearms in certain situations. Additionally, Oregon law provides for enhanced penalties when a firearm is used or threatened to be used during the commission of a felony.
Moreover, numerous county, city and local ordinances also regulate the use of guns and supplement the state laws. It is confusing to navigate this legal landscape, and if you are charged with illegally possessing a firearm, it is important to have a knowledgeable defense lawyer at your side.
At the Portland law firm of Raivio, Kohlmetz & Steen, P.C., our attorneys defend clients charged with violating state or local gun laws. The penalties depend on factors such as prior criminal history and the circumstances of the offense. Our Portland firearms possession attorneys help clients who have been charged with violating state and local firearms laws. With more than 70 years of combined criminal defense experience, our lawyers know how to build strong cases.
We defend clients against charges such as:
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Unlawful use of a weapon, including having a gun that you intend to use unlawfully, or intentionally discharging a gun within city limits
- Committing a crime with a gun
- Unlawful possession of a gun, including carrying a concealed firearm without a permit, having a concealed gun in your car or truck and having a gun when you are under 18
We explore possible defenses, such as self defense or the choice of evils defense. We explore the circumstances of your arrest and determine whether you were correctly charged. We keep in mind recent developments in Second Amendment jurisprudence and will bring up to date challenges to old laws. We work hard to defend you, knowing that if convicted, you could face significant penalties and fines.
Sentences for gun law violations can range up to ten years in prison and fines that could be as much as $250,000. If you are convicted of unlawful use of a weapon, you will also have a felony record that could follow you for the rest of your life. The stakes can be very high.
Call a Portland and Beaverton Criminal Weapons Possession Lawyer
Our law firm is committed to providing the highest-quality defense at reasonable rates and is dedicated to protecting our clients' rights. We offer a free initial consultation. Call a firearms possession attorney toll free at 1-888-311-2016 or send us an e-mail.
