NEW JERSEY CRIMINAL LAWYERS

NJ NJ POSSESSION OF A FIREARM FOR AN UNLAWFUL PURPOSE OFFENSE

Get the Defense for Your Unlawful Possession of a Firearm Case with Our Expert Lawyers

Possessing firearms or weapons explicitly meant for unlawful purposes is a serious offense that can attract severe penalties, including hefty fines and prolonged jail terms of up to 10 years. In New Jersey, charges associated with possession of handguns, shotguns, or firearms for an unlawful purpose carry a lot of weight and require specialized legal representation skills to achieve favorable outcomes.

At Todd Spodek’s law firm – the Law Offices of Todd Spodek – we have ten lawyers dedicated exclusively to defending individuals facing gun charges. Our team comprises former county prosecutors and members of the NJ attorney general’s office, each boasting over 200 years of combined experience rescuing individuals charged with possession of a weapon used for an illegal purpose.

Our lawyers are also certified criminal trial attorneys, which is a rare distinction earned by fewer than 2% of licensed New Jersey lawyers. Therefore, when working with us, you can rest assured that you’re dealing with experienced professionals who know precisely what it takes to defend cases involving firearm offenses.

Understanding “Unlawful Purpose” Charges

The state stipulates that anyone who possesses firearms purposely to use them unlawfully against another person or property violates N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4(a). While this may seem like one simple sentence, it contains several elements necessary for prosecution action.

To secure a conviction in such cases, prosecutors must establish four critical elements:

1) The accused possessed firearms.

2) The defendant had intent or purpose to use the guns illegally against another person.

3) Firearms were intended to be used unlawfully.

4) The prosecutor must prove all these elements beyond reasonable doubt.

It essential to note that possessing firearms does not necessarily imply illegal purposes. Circumstantial evidence and witness testimonies often come in handy in proving malicious intentions and misuse of firearms by the defendant. However, for the prosecutor to secure a conviction, they must prove all these elements beyond reasonable doubt.

Understanding the Consequences of Unlawful Possession of Firearms

Unlawful possession or use of firearms carries severe consequences in New Jersey. If found guilty of the second-degree crime of possession of an illegal firearm, N.J.S.A. 2C:39-2(a) subjects you to five ten-year jail terms and up to $150,000 in fines. Additionally, under the Graves Act, unlawful use arrests attract a mandatory non-negotiable period of parole ineligibility.

New Jersey also has specific provisions that cater to “community guns” – firearms transferred between several individuals involved in criminal activity or use unlawfully. Individuals convicted with community fire-gun charges face long prison terms ranging from five to ten years and are ineligible for parole until serving at least three years.

Why Choose Us?

At the Law Offices of Todd Spodek, you’re guaranteed high-quality legal representation from experts with proven skills and knowledge on gun offense cases. We are passionate about defending firearm charge allegations and helping individuals facing such severe consequences regain their freedom through our proven legal strategies.

Our experienced experts offer complimentary initial consultations at no extra cost via 212-300-5196. You can contact us any time of day or night for guidance throughout your case journey.

Table: Possible Penalties for Illegal Possession or Use of Firearms in New Jersey
| Types of Offences | Possible Penalties |
| — | — |
| Possession | Up to 10 years |
| | Up to $150,000 |
| Community Fire-Gun | Up to 10 years |
| | Mandatory Minimum Sentence Of Three Years Ineligible for Parole |

Why Do You Need Legal Representation For A Firearm Offence?

If facing charges involving illegal possession or use of firearms, you need our team of qualified legal experts with extensive experience in handling similar cases. We understand the complexities that come with firearm offenses and are prepared to offer guidance through every step of the defense process.

Our Experience

At the Law Offices of Todd Spodek, we have a team of ten dedicated lawyers who specialize in defending individuals facing gun charges. Our group comprises former county prosecutors and members of NJ attorney general’s office. What’s more, our combined experience surpasses over 200 years in rescuing individuals charged with possession of firearms meant for illegal purposes.

Expert Defense Attorneys

All our defense attorneys are certified criminal trial attorneys – an elite distinction achieved by less than 2% of New Jersey licensed lawyers. With us, you’re not only getting a reliable legal team but also professional experts passionate about ensuring favorable outcomes in firearm-related cases.

Possible Penalties

New Jersey has strict laws and provisions against illegal possession and use of firearms. If found guilty, possible penalties include jail terms ranging from up to 10 years for possession and up to ten years for community fire-gun charges. Fines can also go as high as $150,000.

Table: Possible Penalties For Unlawful Possession or Use Of Firearms

| Charge | Penalty |
| — | — |
| Possession | Up to 10 years imprisonment |
| | Fines up to $150,000 |
| Community Fire-Gun | Up to 10 years imprisonment |
| | Minimum three-year parole ineligibility |

The Bottom Line

Firearms offenses carry severe consequences that can negatively affect your life forever. Therefore, it is essential to work with a qualified defense attorney specializing in gun charges and offenses like ours. At the Law Offices of Todd Spodek, we understand the intricacies that come with such cases and have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes. Contact us today via 212-300-5196 for more information on our services, charges, or to book a free initial consultation.