Clarksville Gun Crimes Lawyer

Clarksville, TN Gun Crimes Attorney

While there are Second Amendment protections for your right to keep and bear arms, Tennessee’s gun crime laws outline strict penalties that can limit your freedoms rather than protect them. A Clarksville gun crimes lawyer can help you defend against gun crime charges and stand up for your rights throughout a case.

Why Work With Us?

Michael J. Thompson Attorney at Law has been helping people in Tennessee face criminal charges since his admission to the Tennessee state bar in 2009. As a former Marine, Michael Thompson has learned the importance of unwavering dedication and service, applying these military principles to criminal defense. Ultimately, his skilled legal counsel and knowledge of Tennessee’s gun crime laws support the pursuit of a favorable outcome for your gun crime case.

Gun Crimes in Clarksville, TN

While most people can lawfully and safely own a firearm, such as for use in the Montgomery County Shooting Complex, failing to follow strict gun laws can lead to disaster. In 2024, firearms were involved in 23,721 crimes in Tennessee. Firearms are involved in many types of violent crimes, including 53.1% of all Tennessee aggravated assault cases, and were responsible for 1,587 deaths in 2023.

Not all gun crimes involve violent acts. Illegal possession or sale makes up a significant portion of Tennessee’s total gun crimes. No matter what gun crime charge you are facing, you should hire a gun crimes lawyer as soon as possible to begin building a defense.

Types of Gun Crimes We Handle

Gun crime laws cover a variety of illegal firearm-related offenses. Some of the most common charges we help clients with include:

• Unlawful possession of a firearm: In Tennessee, certain individuals are prohibited from possessing a firearm, including those who have been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors. If found with a weapon, these people can face criminal charges
• Possession of an illegal weapon: This charge involves illegal weapons or illegal modifications. For example, short-barreled rifles or shotguns, or a machine gun.
• Carrying a weapon in a prohibited area: Though Tennessee provides ways for many individuals to lawfully carry a weapon, bringing a weapon into a prohibited area can result in criminal charges. Prohibited areas can include schools and courthouses. It is also prohibited to carry a weapon while intoxicated, no matter the location.
• Illegal sale of a firearm: Knowingly or recklessly selling, gifting, or loaning a firearm to someone who cannot legally possess one is a serious criminal charge. This includes selling to a minor, an intoxicated person, or a convicted felon.

Potential Penalties in a Gun Crime Case in Clarksville

Gun crimes can be classified as both misdemeanors and felonies, depending on the offense. A Clarksville gun crime attorney can evaluate the gun crime laws surrounding your case to determine what penalties a judge may impose, which could include:

• Jail or prison
• Fines
• Probation
• Parole
• Community service

A conviction also leaves a permanent criminal record that can affect many areas of your life. This record may prohibit you from legally owning a gun. You may face difficulty finding employment, lose certain professional licenses, or have limited educational opportunities. These consequences are often overlooked during a gun crime case, but a gun crimes lawyer in Clarksville, TN can help you mitigate these negative damages, protecting your future.

Why You Should Hire a Gun Crimes Lawyer

Facing a gun crime charge involves complex gun crime laws and strict penalties. A Clarksville gun crime lawyer can explain your charges, what the prosecution has to prove to be convicted, and what penalties apply to your case. Without this guidance, the criminal justice system can feel unfamiliar and overwhelming.

If your gun case involves factors such as prior convictions, licensing issues, or federal gun laws, legal guidance is essential. A lawyer can assess how those factors affect your situation and can build a legal strategy that addresses the challenges these factors can pose. They can gather and review records, consult professionals, and identify defenses that may not be obvious without years of experience.

FAQs About Clarksville, TN Gun Crimes Laws

What Are the Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Gun Crimes in Clarksville?

The mandatory minimum sentences for gun crimes in Clarksville depend on the specific charge and the circumstances of the offense, such as any aggravating factors or prior convictions. Many misdemeanor gun crimes do not have a mandatory minimum sentence, such as illegal possession of a firearm or the unlawful sale of a firearm, which is a Class A misdemeanor.

What Misdemeanors Prohibit Gun Ownership in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, misdemeanor convictions that prohibit gun ownership include domestic violence and stalking convictions. Even without a conviction, having an active Order of Protection against you can limit your ability to own a gun. DUI offenses can also prohibit gun ownership, particularly if you have had multiple convictions. If you are unsure about how your charges impact gun ownership, speaking with a lawyer can provide clarity.

How Does the Involvement of a Gun Change a Criminal Charge?

When a gun is involved in a crime, the severity of the charges increases. Use of a deadly weapon, such as a gun, is a common aggravating factor in cases such as assault, burglary, or robbery. Not only can the offense be classified as a more serious charge, but it can also result in higher penalties compared to offenses without the involvement of a gun.

How Strict Are the Gun Laws in Tennessee?

While Tennessee provides more gun rights to citizens compared to certain other U.S. states, the gun laws are very strictly enforced to maintain safe communities. For example, while Tennessee allows permitless constitutional carry for most adults in most areas, there are still strict laws prohibiting carrying a gun onto school grounds. If you have been charged with a gun crime, a strong legal defense is needed to challenge these severe charges.

Reach Out to a Clarksville Gun Crime Attorney

In Clarkesville, gun ownership is a large part of many people’s lives. Not only does a gun crime charge threaten your gun ownership, but it can also result in consequences such as imprisonment, fines, and a criminal record. Contact Michael J. Thompson Attorney at Law to schedule a case consultation where we can begin building a defense against your gun crime charge.