Charges of illegally possessing a weapon are extremely serious in Denver and throughout Colorado, as the general assumption of the law is that the person possessing the alleged weapon had intent to use it, likely for other criminal purposes. The charges can be even more grave, with the possible penalties being significantly harsher, should any of the following also be a factor in the case:
- The accused has a criminal record.
- Other charges, such as armed robbery, hate crimes, sexual assault, etc., have been alleged in the case.
Illegal Weapons Possession Charges
There are a number of circumstances that can make possessing certain types of weapons illegal. Namely, federal dictates that the following parties are legally not allowed to possess a weapon in Colorado:
- Those who have been convicted of any crime that is punishable by one or more years in prison — regardless of whether the crime is classified as a felony or misdemeanor charge
- Those who have been convicted of certain types of domestic violence charges
Additionally, individuals who are on probation, as well as those who have been convicted of certain felony charges, may have specific restrictions regarding their rights (or lack thereof) to possess a weapon or fire arm.
According to Colorado state law, the following types of weapons are considered to be illegal to possess, regardless of criminal history:
- Weapons classified as “dangerous weapons,” which include guns with silencers, machine guns, shotguns shorter than 18 inches, rifles shorter than 16 inches and possibly weapons that have been modified after they have been legally manufactured
- Other illegal weapons, such as switchblade knives, gas guns and/or brass knuckles
Depending on the nature of the case, illegal weapons possession charges can be charged as anything from a class 1 misdemeanor to a class 4 felony, with the worst cases involving possible prison sentences of up to eight years (not including possible sentences if other charges are involved).
Given the severity of weapons offense charges, it’s crucial that the accused work with our Denver criminal defense lawyers. For a FREE, no-obligations evaluation of your case, contact Flesch & Beck Law today by emailing us or calling (303) 806-8886.
