Dedicated Shreveport Gun Crime Attorney
It is your Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. While Louisiana has some of the least limiting gun laws in the country, there are still strict regulations in place for public safety, and weapons offenses are taken very seriously. If you or a loved one is facing a firearms charge, be sure to consult a skilled Shreveport gun crime lawyer right away.
What to Know About the Kinley Law Firm
At the Kinley Law Firm, we believe in bringing a unique and impactful perspective to each client’s case. Founder Bryce Kinley served as an Assistant District Attorney in Caddo Parish before focusing on criminal defense as a dedicated Shreveport criminal defense lawyer. With his deep understanding of the Louisiana justice system and extensive courtroom experience, you can feel confident in Mr. Kinley’s legal guidance and representation.
Understanding Gun Crime Charges in Louisiana
Before understanding gun offenses, it is helpful to review Louisiana’s firearm laws. In the state of Louisiana, you are not required to acquire a permit to carry a handgun, rifle, or shotgun. Some people may be legally restricted from possessing a firearm, such as those convicted of domestic violence and felons. There are also certain areas where you are prohibited from carrying a firearm, even with a permit.
Recent data shows that more than half, 53.1 percent, of households in Louisiana own a gun. In 2022, over 152,000 gun ownership licenses were reported in the state, accounting for about two percent of the nation’s firearm licenses that year. If you have been accused of any of these common firearms violations,you should hire a gun crime lawyer sooner rather than later:
- Illegal possession of a gun, including possessing a firearm without a proper license or permit, or possessing a prohibited weapon
- Entering or possessing firearms in a designated gun-free zone, such as government buildings, school grounds, courthouses, airports, restaurants that sell alcohol, and more
- Illegal carrying of a concealed weapon
- Unlawful use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities, including utilizing a gun during the commission of a crime
- Aggravated assault utilizing a firearm
- Possession of a stolen firearm
- Possession of a gun by a convicted felon
- Being found in possession of a gun concurrently with controlled substances
A knowledgeable gun crime lawyer can review the facts and evidence in your case. The Kinley Law Firm has assisted many clients in the Shreveport area in situations similar to yours and is ready to help you, too.
Why You Should Hire a Gun Crime Lawyer in Shreveport, LA
There are several benefits to working with a knowledgeable and experienced Shreveport gun crime attorney, such as our head attorney at the Kinley Law Firm. Louisiana gun crime laws can be confusing, especially for those who aren’t familiar with the numerous regulations that can be involved. When facing a gun offense, it’s helpful to work with a legal professional who is familiar with local restrictions and the processes and expectations of the criminal court system.
Consulting a qualified defense lawyer also improves your chances of reaching a favorable outcome in your case, whether that be avoiding unnecessarily harsh punishment or facing penalties altogether. The legal penalties for a firearms crime can vary depending on several factors, but often include fines and jail or prison time.
A gun crime case in Shreveport is most likely to be handled at the Caddo Parish Courthouse, which is located at 501 Texas Street, Shreveport, LA 71101. Some gun offense proceedings may instead be handled in federal court. The U.S. District Court for Shreveport is located at 300 Fannin Street, Shreveport, LA 71101. To confirm which legal venue may oversee your case, you can consult your defense attorney.
FAQs About Shreveport, LA Gun Crime Laws
What Are Common Gun Crimes in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, common gun crimes include being found in illegal possession of a firearm, bringing a gun into a restricted area, and unlawfully using a firearm. An individual may be found in illegal possession of a firearm if they’re a convicted felon, lack the necessary permit or license for their weapon, or the gun itself is stolen or illegal. You may face severe charges if a gun was used during the commission of another crime, such as assault or robbery.
Can You Challenge a Gun Crime Charge in Louisiana?
Yes, you can certainly challenge a gun crime charge in Louisiana, and your strongest chances of doing so are with the help of a defense attorney. After reviewing your case, a lawyer can build an effective defense strategy depending on the nature of the alleged crime and your criminal history. Some common defense arguments against gun offense charges include asserting your constitutional rights were violated, it was a case of mistaken identity, and accidental possession.
How Does a Gun Crime Defense Lawyer Help in LA?
There are multiple ways a Shreveport gun crime attorney can help your case. A criminal defense professional possesses relevant legal knowledge that allows them to effectively navigate the gun crime proceedings on your behalf. As your legal representation, an attorney is there to uphold your constitutional rights throughout the process. Defense lawyers also understand how to skillfully negotiate and litigate, before and after a potential conviction.
Can You Get a Gun Charge Dropped in Louisiana?
While it is never a guarantee, it is possible to get a gun charge dropped in the state of Louisiana in certain circumstances. Typically, a gun offense case can be dismissed if you were wrongfully accused, the firearm did not belong to you, or the prosecution lacks enough compelling evidence to bring the case forward. It is also possible for the case to be thrown out due to errors from law enforcement, such as conducting an illegal stop-and-search.
Speak With a Qualified Defense Lawyer in Shreveport, LA
The Kinley Law Firm is here to counsel you through every step of the criminal justice system while protecting your rights and advocating fiercely on your behalf. Reach out to us today to schedule a meeting with a welcoming and experienced gun crimes defense attorney. We can answer any questions or concerns you may have before guiding you through the next steps.
