Federal Weapons Trafficking Lawyer in Raleigh
When we think about weapons trafficking, we usually think of a criminal bringing a cache of guns illegally into a location to sell them. While this obviously qualifies as weapons trafficking, even smaller acts can be enough to satisfy the statute and result in someone being charged with this offense.
Simply buying a gun in a state with weak gun laws and bringing it into a state that strongly regulates guns is enough to be charged with the crime. It can also include supplying guns to the black market so they can end up being used in crimes across the country.
The United States government prosecutes federal weapon trafficking. The federal government and its agencies have far more resources than state prosecutors, and they will do everything in their power to convict you. Because of the seriousness of the charge, it is imperative that you retain legal representation right away.
The attorneys at Coolidge Law Firm are licensed in the Eastern District of North Carolina and have experience successfully defending clients in federal court. We listen to your story and find the best legal option available for your situation.
Schedule a time to speak with us more about your case. Call (919) 239-8448 or submit your information in the online contact form. The Coolidge Law Firm represent clients in all communities throughout the Eastern District of North Carolina including Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Garner, Apex, and many others.
What is Federal Weapons Trafficking?
The United States is a country that honors the right for its citizens to bear arms. This right is not unlimited, however, and there are guidelines gun owners are required to abide by. One of these guidelines is a prohibition on trafficking. The crime is considered the shipping and receiving of weapons across state lines or international borders.
Guns are not the only weapons that are unlawful to traffic. Destructive devices such as bombs, poisonous gas, grenades and other explosives are also illegal to ship across state and international lines.
Only licensed manufacturers, dealers and importers have permission to import and export weapons. There is a chance you could still be charged with the crime if you are a licensed dealer, especially if you are caught shipping weapons to someone who has not been approved as an authorized dealer.
Federal vs. State Charges
Criminal proceedings are different when the federal government is investigating you. For starters, federal charges involve a violation of the United States Code. When you are standing trial for a federal offense, it will be held in front of a Federal District Court Judge.
During the process, an Assistant United States Attorney will represent the people and an attorney licensed to practice in federal court will represent you. If the court finds you guilty of the crime, you will be sent to federal prison.
State charges, on the other hand, result from violations of a criminal provision of the North Carolina General Statutes. When you are prosecuted for a crime in Wake County, a district attorney will represent the people, and an attorney licensed by the North Carolina State bar will represent you. When you are convicted of a crime on the state level, you will spend time in a state or county correctional facility.
One thing federal and state systems have in common is that you have the right to legal counsel. You should exercise this right and seek immediate representation. At the Coolidge Law Firm we take pride in having experience representing clients in Federal and state courts in Wake County and other areas in North Carolina.
Additional Resources for Federal Weapons Charges
Federal Firearms Laws | United States Department of Justice – View a reference guide for federal firearm laws provided by the U.S Department of Justice. You can read the precise legal text for each charged mentioned in this page as well as the definition of a firearm. The United States Department of Justice is responsible for enforcing the nation’s laws.
Eastern District of North Carolina | United States District Court– Follow this link to learn more about the U.S District Courts in eastern North Carolina. You can gain access to the information about the six districts court in the district, court schedules and records request.
Facing a Federal Weapons Trafficking Charge? Speak to a Raleigh Lawyer Now!
Federal weapon trafficking is a complex charge that requires the guidance of an experienced defense attorney. Coolidge Law Firm works diligently on every case that comes through our door, and yours is no exception.
If you are being investigated for federal weapons trafficking, you probably have many questions that the Coolidge Law Firm can answer. Schedule a time to speak with us more about your case. Call (919) 239-8448 or submit your information in the contact form below.
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