Offices in Kent, Lynnwood, and Marysville, WA
Washington state has some of the toughest gun control laws in the country.
As a reputable defense law firm that has been defending the rights of Washington residents for almost two decades, we understand how being faced with weapons charges can be a stressful and confusing time for you and your family.
Feldman & Lee, PS helps you understand the complex laws that surround weapon charges, including the Revised Code of Washington (RCW).
Weapons charges almost never come alone. Simply getting charged with a weapons violation could lead to permanent firearm restrictions, mandatory sentence enhancements, and even prison time. Weapons violations usually accompany other criminal activity such as assaults, drug charges, DUI’s, disorderly conduct and domestic violence cases. If you have been arrested for possession of a dangerous weapon, unlawful possession of a firearm or any type of felony firearm violation, contact Feldman & Lee PS to speak to an attorney today.
Revised Code of Washington (RCW)
Washington code section 9.41 of the RCW outlines the threatening illegal firearms prohibited in the state and the corresponding penalties attached to them.
Certain weapons are considered completely illegal in Washington state, including machine guns and short-barreled shotguns and rifles. Unlawful possession of these firearms may result in a class C felony. There are also certain weapons the state recognizes as “dangerous,” including switchblades, slingshots, firearm silencers, and brass knuckles. The manufacturing, possession or distribution of these weapons considered gross misdemeanor — an offense that’s punishable for with up to 364 days in jail, and fines up to $5,000.
Types of Weapons Charges
If you have been arrested for the possession of a weapon such as a knife, gun, or switchblade, it’s imperative that you get in touch with an experienced lawyer who can come up with a solid defense on your behalf. Conviction for this charge entails fines, jail time, and maybe a lifelong weapon prohibition.
Here are some of the common types of weapon charges:
Unlawful Possession of Ammunition (UA)
It is illegal to possess a “large capacity ammunition feeding device,” which may be a feed strip, magazine, drum, or belt that readily accepts more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This crime may entail a fine of $1,000 and one year of jail time.
Possession of an Unregistered Firearm
The possession of any unregistered firearm entails a one year sentence, on top of a $1,000 fine. If you are charged with transferring a firearm to an individual who is ineligible to register a gun, you may face a 10-year sentence and a $10,000 fine.
Carrying a Pistol Without a License (CPWL)
A person out in public cannot have a weapon on their person with a government issued concealed pistol license. Individuals convicted of this crime can face up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 in fines.
Alteration of Identification Numbers
Possession of a gun with a serial number that has been scratched off, filed off, or otherwise removed is illegal. A conviction for this type of gun charge may result in up to a year of imprisonment and/or a maximum fine of $1000.
Assault with Dangerous Weapon (ADW)
Assault is a crime, more so when combined with intent to commit mayhem (or the malicious maiming of an individual or the violent destruction of property). If the assault is committed using a dangerous weapon, the person may serve jail time of up to 10 years.
Weapons charges can be coupled with:
- DUI
- Serious traffic violations
- Burglary and Theft
- Juvenile crime
- Probation Violation
- Restraining order violation
At Feldman & Lee PS we conduct a thorough investigation into the facts. In addition, we use our knowledge of the court system to place our clients in the best light possible.
If you face a weapons violation with a deadly weapon, contact Feldman & Lee to talk to an experienced Lynnwood, Kent, or Washington defense attorney. We have almost 20 years of experience fighting weapon charges for residents of the state of Washington. Count on our knowledgeable and skillful legal team to aggressively protect for your right and to learn the whole truth behind the accusations against you. Our defense attorneys keep your best interests at heart, and are steadfast in pursuing the best possible resolution for you.
Knowledge of the subject can help you defend your constitutional rights and your right to bear arms. Contact us at Feldman & Lee, PS today for help understanding the legal complexities that surround your firearm charge. The initial consultation is always free.
