A: The new gun law in Tennessee, which took effect in July 2021, allows most legal adults to carry a handgun without the need for a permit. This includes both open and concealed carry. This does not apply to rifles or shotguns, only handguns. Under this state law, you can only carry a handgun without a permit if you are over 21 years old, are legally allowed to possess a handgun, and are in a place where handguns are legally allowed.
Knoxville Federal Gun Crime Lawyer
Federal Gun Crime Attorney In Knoxville, TN
While Tennessee is generally considered a pro-gun state, it is not uncommon to face serious federal consequences if you are convicted of certain gun crimes. There are many federal laws in place that prevent certain individuals from owning guns, transporting guns, or even using guns. Federal crimes are often treated much more seriously than state crimes, and it’s important that you have a Knoxville federal gun crime lawyer by your side to help with your defense.
The legal team at Evans Bulloch Parker PLLC can provide you with the resources you need to further understand the distinction between state and federal gun crime penalties, as well as the significance of Knoxville federal gun crime laws. The value of a federal gun crime attorney cannot be understated in a situation like this. If convicted, you could face serious prison time, hefty fines, and be saddled with a criminal record that will follow you for the rest of your life.
Why Should You Hire a Federal Gun Crime Lawyer?
There are many important reasons why you should hire a federal gun crime lawyer. Above all, you will want someone in your corner who understands the stakes you are up against. At Evans Bulloch Parker PLLC, we know how to handle complex criminal cases like yours. One of our founding partners, Luke A. Evans, focuses on federal cases and has previously served as an Assistant District Attorney General in Memphis. His considerable litigation experience can help.
According to statistical data collected by the United States Sentencing Commission, federal gun crimes account for a significant number of convictions nationwide throughout 2024. With over 8,100 federal firearms cases reported to the Commission, federal gun crimes were the third most common federal crime that year. If you possess a prohibited firearm, you could end up facing 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. The right lawyer can make all the difference to your case.
It’s understandable to feel worried or confused about the charges you could be facing in a federal gun crime case. There’s nothing wrong with asking for help from the right people. You may want to consider reaching out to a local mental health support group, such as NAMI Knoxville or All Ages Counseling, for help as you navigate this difficult situation. Discussing your case with people who have experienced something similar can be beneficial.
Defenses Against Federal Gun Crime Charges
According to the ATF, you cannot legally own a firearm if you fall into one of many different categories, including if you are a fugitive from justice, a previously convicted felon, a known drug addict, or have a restraining order against you for domestic violence. Federally, you can be charged for federal gun crimes simply for having a firearm in your possession if you fall into one of these categories. Here are some defenses you may want to try to use for your legal strategy:
- Legal Usage: One of the most common and basic defenses you and your lawyer may try to claim is the simple fact that you are legally allowed to own a gun. You don’t fall into any of the ATF’s criteria, and you are exercising your Second Amendment right to bear arms. It’s entirely possible that the police misread the situation and arrested you on grounds that don’t actually exist. Your lawyer can argue that you did nothing wrong.
- Lack of Possession: If you are arrested for transporting firearms across state lines, which is a federal crime, your lawyer may be able to prove that you never actually possessed said firearms in the literal sense. There may be no way to prove your physical involvement in such a situation, especially if there is no evidence to actually tie you to the crime.
FAQs
Q: Is Having a Gun a Federal Crime?
A: No, having a gun is not automatically a federal crime. If you are within your rights to own a gun, it is your choice to make if you want to own one. However, if you fall under certain federal criteria, it becomes a federal crime to own a gun. For example, anyone who is a convicted felon, a drug addict, an illegal alien, or a fugitive from justice cannot legally have a gun in their possession.
Q: Can a Felon Own a Gun After 10 Years in Tennessee?
A: No, a felon cannot own a gun after 10 years in Tennessee. Once a person is convicted of a felony, they lose their right to own a firearm. That right is not automatically restored after a 10-year period. If a felon wants to regain their right to bear arms, they must undergo a specific process to convince the court to restore those rights. There are never any guarantees that the court will do so.
Q: Should I Hire a Defense Lawyer for a Gun Charge?
A: Yes, you should hire a defense lawyer for a gun charge. Facing federal gun crime charges can be significant. If you lose your case, you could end up serving prison time, paying substantial fines, and having a criminal record that will follow you for the rest of your life. Having the right lawyer on your side can make all the difference as you fight these charges.
Contact a Lawyer Today
The legal team at Evans Bulloch Parker PLLC understands the most effective ways to help you fight a federal gun crime charge. We can help you build a strong case, develop a defense strategy, and ensure your rights are protected. Contact us to speak to a member of our team about your case.