Kitsap County Firearm and Weapon Offenses Lawyer

With more than four decades of cumulative criminal law experience, Ramirez & Cooper, Inc. have aggressively fought weapon charges in the state of Washington. Our legal team will protect your right to carry a weapon and we will learn the truths behind the accusations against you. We strongly pursue the best possible solution for our clients and keep their best interests at heart.

If you have been arrested or charged for carrying a gun, knife or switchblade it is imperative that you contact our Kitsap County attorney to provide solid defense on your behalf. If you are convicted, you may face jail time, fines and maybe even a lifelong prohibition of carrying a weapon. At our firm, we believe there is not greater obligation that to defend your constitutional right and The Bill of Rights guarantees our right to bear arms.

Firearm Charges Our Firm Can Fight

• Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit
• Carrying an illegal firearm
• Utilizing a weapon in an assault
• Misfiring a weapon
• Threatening someone with a weapon
• Carrying a firearm into a public establishment

If you are facing criminal charges, contact us online or call (206) 222-7701 today to discuss your case with our Kitsap County weapon offenses lawyer!

Is it Legal to Possess a Gun in Washington State?

In Washington State, it is generally legal to possess a gun, but there are specific regulations and restrictions that apply. Here are key points to consider:

• Eligibility: To legally possess a firearm, you must be at least 18 years old for rifles and shotguns, and at least 21 years old for handguns. Individuals with felony convictions, certain misdemeanor convictions, or those deemed mentally incompetent are prohibited from firearm possession.
• Background Checks: Washington requires background checks for all firearm purchases, including private sales. 
• Permit Requirements: While no permit is required to purchase a firearm, a concealed carry permit is necessary for carrying a concealed handgun. To obtain this permit, applicants must meet specific criteria, including passing a background check.
• Storage Laws: Gun owners are responsible for securely storing their firearms, especially if there are minors in the household. Failure to do so can lead to legal consequences.
• Public Places: Carrying firearms in public places may be subject to additional regulations, and individuals should be aware of areas where firearms are prohibited, such as schools and government buildings.
• Prohibited Weapons: Certain types of firearms, such as fully automatic weapons and specific assault weapons, are banned in Washington.

What are the Prohibited Weapons in Washington?

Washington code section 9.41 of the RCW lists out the illegal, threatening firearms that are not permitted, and the penalties that are attached to them. 

There are certain weapons that are completely illegal in the state Washington including:

• Machine guns
• Short-barreled rifles
• Short-barreled shotguns
• Automatic and assault weapons
• Silencers and suppressors
• Explosives and destructive devices
• Switchblades and certain knives

What Are The Penalties for Unlawful Possession in Washington State?

In Washington State, the penalties for unlawful possession of a firearm can vary depending on several factors, including the nature of the offense, the individual’s criminal history, and the specific circumstances of the case. Here’s a general overview:

Misdemeanor Unlawful Possession

Typically involves possession of a firearm in restricted areas or carrying a concealed weapon without a permit. This can result in a maximum of 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

Felony Unlawful Possession

Generally pertains to individuals prohibited from owning firearms, such as convicted felons, individuals with domestic violence convictions, or those declared mentally incompetent. This is typically classified as a Class C felony,  which can carry a sentence of up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

If you need legal support for weapon offenses, contact us online or call (206) 222-7701 to connect with our Kitsap County weapon offenses lawyer today!

Can a Convicted Felon Own a Gun in Washington State?

If you have been convicted of certain criminal offenses in the past you may not be permitted to ever possess a weapon. Unlawful possession of a firearm, loaded or not, could lead to an additional class B felony. 

Depending on your record and criminal history, a serious a class III felony could have a potential sentence of 1-43 months in prison and thousands of dollars in fines. Unless you are licensed to carry a concealed weapon, it is otherwise illegal and people will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

How Can We Defend You for Weapon Offenses?

When facing weapon charges, having a solid defense strategy is crucial. Ramirez & Cooper, Inc. can assist you in formulating effective defense options based on the specifics of your case.

• Challenging Evidence: An effective defense may involve challenging the evidence against you. This could include questioning the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the firearm. If law enforcement did not have probable cause or a warrant, any evidence obtained may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Proving Legal Ownership: In cases involving possession, establishing that you legally owned the firearm can be a strong defense. Documentation proving ownership, along with testimony, can help support your case.
• Self-Defense Claims: If a weapon was used in a self-defense situation, this can significantly impact the case. Demonstrating that you acted in self-defense may absolve you of criminal liability if you can show that your actions were necessary to prevent imminent harm.
• Mental Health Considerations: In cases involving individuals with mental health issues, it may be possible to argue that the defendant was not in a sound state of mind when the offense occurred. This defense requires careful documentation and may involve mental health evaluations.
• Negotiating Plea Deals: In some instances, negotiating a plea deal may be in your best interest. A skilled attorney can discuss the possibility of reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea, which may lead to a more favorable outcome.

Understanding Your Rights and Options in Washington State

When facing criminal charges, it's important to understand your rights and options for defense. Our experienced Kitsap County weapons attorneys at Ramirez & Cooper, Inc. are dedicated to providing personalized legal representation and guiding you through the complexities of the legal system. 

Whether you are facing charges for unlawful possession of a firearm or other weapons-related offenses, we can help you navigate the legal process and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.

Our team of experienced weapons attorneys can assist with:

• Evaluating the evidence against you
• Developing a strong defense strategy
• Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges
• Representing you in court proceedings
• Protecting your rights throughout the legal process

Don't wait to start your defense - contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case with our knowledgeable legal team.

Start Your Defense Today

We understand that facing weapon charges can be a difficult and stressful time for you and your family and you may not know who to turn to. At Ramirez & Cooper, Inc. we will calculate your next move for you and we are always a couple steps ahead in the legal proceedings. 

Our superior quality of service will speak for itself because we give clients the time, effort and attention needed to resolve their criminal matter quickly and successfully.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a weapon offense, we encourage you to contact one of our Kitsap County attorneys online or call (206) 222-7701 to begin building your defense today.