Weapon Possession Lawyer NYC

New York’s weapon possession laws are some of the strongest in America. It is very possible to get into trouble simply for keeping the wrong sort of weapon in your home. 

We have over 3 decades of experience defending New Yorkers against weapons possession charges. Reach out to our office to get help immediately, preferably the day of your arrest. The faster you call, the faster we can help. 

Which weapons are illegal in New York? 

In New York, it is illegal to possess:

• Switchblades
• Ballistic knives
• Other blades longer than four inches
• Billy clubs
• Blackjacks
• Brass or plastic knuckles
• Slingshots
• Sword canes
• Tonfas
• Maces
• Assault rifles
• Machine guns
• Stun guns
• Throwing stars
• Other guns for which you do not have a license
• Explosives

This list is not exhaustive. 

You are considered to have possession of a weapon if it is on your person or in your dominion: that is it is found in your car, home, or somewhere where you have exclusive access. 

Can you secure pretrial release for weapon possession crimes? 

Some weapons charges are charged as violent felonies, which means you will only be able to secure pretrial release through the bail process. If you are charged with misdemeanor weapons possession we may be able to get you released on your own recognizance. 

Either way, you’ll need an attorney to help you achieve your best chance of pretrial release. This is important, because without it you could spend months in jail, even before you are convicted of any crime. 

What are the penalties for weapon possession crimes?

New York mandates state prison time for individuals convicted of weapons possession. A simple gun possession charge can send you to jail for up to 7 years. 

Fortunately, it is also possible to get a probation sentence for this crime if acquittal is not possible. Probation isn’t an easy sell, but Michael Rubin has a track record for getting it done. 

Most weapons charges are charged as felonies, though it may be possible to have your charges reduced to a misdemeanor weapons charge.

Defense Strategies for Weapon Possession Crimes

There are a few defenses we can employ if you’re accused of weapons crimes.

One is to show that you did not possess the weapon in the first place. Another may be to show that you had the proper license, registration, and permit for a firearm you’re accused of possessing.

If the police violated your rights at any point while gathering evidence for the possession charge and we can prove it, then any evidence they obtained may be suppressed, including the weapon in question. This can destroy the prosecution’s case. 

If you or a loved one has been charged with weapon possession, get help today. 

We are dedicated to protecting your rights. We’ll thoroughly evaluate and investigate your case, and look for ways to get your charges dropped, dismissed, or reduced. If the facts of the case warrant it, we have the litigation skills to seek acquittal at trial, as well.

If you’ve been charged, you don’t have a minute to waste. Call 212-691-9404 to schedule a free consultation today.