NEW JERSEY CRIMINAL LAWYERS

NJ UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A HANDGUN

Strong Defense Against Unlawful Possession Charge: Consult with Atlantic County Handgun Defense Attorneys

Unlawful possession of a handgun is one of the most frequent weapon charges that lawyers confront in Atlantic County. Possessing a gun illegally is not only a second-degree crime, but it also falls under the Graves Act, making it an especially severe charge. If you’ve been charged with unlawful possession of a handgun in Atlantic County, it’s crucial to select the defense attorney to represent you.

Todd Spodek Law Group has a roster of attorneys with over 150 years of combined experience defending handgun charges and possesses one of the most prominent defense teams in the state. Our team includes former prosecutors who have a long track record of securing Graves Act waivers, Pretrial Intervention (PTI), and even dismissals in permit violation cases.

## Free Consultation with Todd Spodek Law Group

We offer a _free consultation_ with our Mays Landing criminal firm attorneys like Jason Seidman, the former Director of the Gangs, Guns & Drugs Task Force or Tom Huth, the former Director of Major Crimes.
You can call us anytime, 24/7 at (609) 616-0020 for your free consultation.

## Understanding Unlawful Possession Charges

It is illegal and a second-degree crime under 2C:39-5 to possess handguns without carry permits unless you are transporting them to or from a shooting range. Violators must serve their sentences because there is no chance for early release. The penalties and fines are severe. If firearms are BBs or pellet guns or devices propelled by air or springs – similar devices – violations get downgraded to third-degree crimes.

## Legal Penalties and Fines

A second-degree illegal handgun offence carries five to ten years imprisonment, plus up to $150,000 in fines if convicted.
Alternatively, third-degree offences expose you to up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.

## Understanding the Graves Act and Additional Considerations

The Graves Act requires sentencing judges to impose a mandatory minimum term of confinement or parole ineligibility period of 42 months. However, prosecutors can file motions with Atlantic County’s Assignment Judge, requesting waivers of the requirements. Waivers may be granted only in some instances – e.g., when defendants lawfully obtained handguns or are residents of other states where they legally possess their firearms.

## Eligibility for Diversion or Pretrial Intervention

Second-degree illegal handgun offences tend not eligible for Pretrial Intervention programs. However, exceptions may be made with the prosecutor’s approval.

## Mays Landing Illegal Handgun Defense Attorney

Most Atlantic County unlawful handgun cases are heard in Mays Landing where the Atlantic County Criminal Courthouse is located. Todd Spodek Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers are readily available for free consultations.

If you’re inclined to challenge car searches or seizures that led authorities to find your handgun or need assistance with Grave Act waivers or Pretrial Interventions, Todd Spodek Law Group is here for you.
Call (609) 616-0020 at your convenience for a FREE consultation with an experienced attorney defending unlawful possession of a handgun charge!

Don’t delay; contact us today and level up your legal defense! Here are additional resources you may check out:

*Criminal Attorney in Mays Landing
*Atlantic County Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose Lawyers
*Illegal Handgun Arrest in Atlantic City
*Atlantic County Certain Person Offense