Houston Federal Weapon Crime Lawyer

Houston Federal Weapon Crime Attorney

Texas is widely considered to be one of the most Second Amendment-friendly states in the US, but violations of the state’s firearms laws are taken very seriously. Additionally, it is possible for an individual to be charged with violating federal firearms laws, which can lead to even more serious penalties than what could be expected in state criminal court. A experienced Houston federal weapon crime lawyer is an essential asset if you have been charged with such an offense.

Experienced Federal Weapons Crime Defense Attorneys in Houston, TX

The team at Hochglaube & DeBorde, P.C. has extensive experience representing defendants charged with all types of weapon-related offenses in the Houston area, including cases tried in federal court. If you have been arrested by any federal law enforcement agency on federal weapons charges, it is imperative that you seek legal counsel from an attorney who has proven experience with federal criminal defense. A federal fraud defense attorney can provide the expertise needed to navigate complex legal issues and ensure that your rights are vigorously protected throughout the legal process.

Federal criminal court is different from state criminal court in many ways. Penalties for violating federal law are generally more severe than violating state laws, and it is possible for penalties for some weapons offenses to be escalated dramatically based on the specific details of the case at hand. With our assistance, you can feel more confident about your defense and have the greatest chance of reaching a positive conclusion in your case.

Every American has the right to legal counsel when they are arrested for any crime. Additionally, they have the right to remain silent upon arrest. If you are arrested for any criminal offense, it is imperative that you fully exercise these rights. Do not answer questions or say anything to the police, and comply with their instructions until you have the opportunity to contact a Houston federal weapon crime lawyer who can defend you.

Building Your Defense Against Federal Weapon Crime Charges

In every criminal case in the US, the prosecution has the burden of proving the defendant’s guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This is a high standard of proof that requires the prosecutor to leverage evidence and witness testimony to show that there can be no room for any reasonable person to doubt whether the defendant committed the offense in question. It is your defense attorney’s job to prevent the prosecutor from meeting this burden of proof. Public corruption can be a federal charge, and if you are facing such accusations, it is crucial to have skilled legal representation to challenge the evidence and ensure a strong defense.

Successfully defending against federal weapons charges may mean proving a mistake of fact, such as wrongful arrest or mistaken identity. You may also need to prove a mistake of law or some type of issue with the prosecution’s case. For example, your defense attorney may recognize an opportunity to challenge whether a specific piece of evidence was legally obtained or whether it is admissible.

While every defendant hopes to secure an acquittal or case dismissal, this may not always be possible. However, if you do face punishment, your defense attorney can potentially bargain with the prosecution on your behalf to secure a plea deal that may include a lighter sentence. This isn’t a guaranteed option in every case, but a good defense attorney can explain the various options available to their client when it comes to reducing their penalties.

The team at Hochglaube & DeBorde, P.C. can work to carefully build a compelling defense on your behalf. We have years of experience with the federal criminal court system, and we know how federal law enforcement agencies build weapons cases. Our goal is to help you avoid conviction if possible or mitigate your penalties if necessary. If you are facing federal drug charges, a federal drug charges lawyer can provide the critical legal support needed for your defense. Contact us as soon as possible after your arrest so we can begin working on your case.

FAQs

Can a Felon Own a Gun in Texas?

A felon can only own a gun in Texas under specific circumstances. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from purchasing or owning firearms; however, a felon is allowed to possess a firearm in their home after five years have passed since the completion of their sentence. If you are in Houston and need clarification on how state and federal laws apply to your situation, consult an attorney who can explain your rights and options regarding firearm possession.

Is Texas an Open Carry State?

Texas is an open carry state, but the state has recently adopted the Constitutional Carry law. This means that there is no licensing requirement to carry a firearm either openly or concealed as long as the individual carrying a firearm is legally allowed to do so. There are some restrictions for those who do not possess a license to carry. For example, this license allows an individual to carry a firearm in places where carrying is prohibited for non-license holders.

What Federal Agencies Prosecute Federal Weapon Crime Cases?

Multiple federal agencies prosecute federal weapon crime cases in the United States. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are the primary agencies that handle these cases. Other agencies, such as the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS), may also be involved in these cases or other criminal cases pertaining to weapons law violations.

What Are the Penalties for a Federal Weapon Crime Conviction?

The penalties for a federal weapon crime conviction will vary based on the specific law or laws violated, the defendant’s criminal history, and whether they committed the offense along with other criminal acts. For example, a felon in possession of a firearm may face up to ten years in prison, but a defendant who has used a firearm while committing another federal offense may face a much longer prison sentence.

Get Help With Your Federal Weapon Crime Case

You should hire a Houston federal weapon crime lawyer because it is essential to fully exercise your right to legal counsel when you have been accused of any federal offense. Additionally, you need to find an attorney who has proven experience handling cases like yours and who is familiar with federal criminal court procedures. You have the greatest chance of avoiding conviction or mitigating your sentence when you have reliable defense counsel.

The attorneys at Hochglaube & DeBorde, P.C. have successfully represented many past clients in all types of federal cases, and we are ready to apply this experience to your federal weapon crime case. It is imperative that you consult a defense attorney at your first opportunity following an arrest so they can begin building your defense. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a Houston federal weapon crime lawyer you can trust.