Being charged with a weapon offense can bring serious consequences. A person can get charged with a prison sentence that requires an experienced criminal defense attorney. An experienced attorney can help you dismiss or reduce your charges. The attorneys at The Abt Law Firm have over 29 years of experience helping people accused of weapon crimes in Atlanta and surrounding areas. We have the knowledge and experience needed to help you obtain the best possible results for your case.
Weapon Laws in Georgia
In Georgia, you don’t need a permit to purchase a gun. However, a person does need a license or permit to carry a weapon openly or to carry a concealed gun on the body. Georgia gun owners cannot take handguns out into the community without a permit. Gun owners can only keep their weapons in their property, vehicles, and place of business. If you carry a gun with you but do not have a permit, you may be facing serious consequences. Pointing a gun at another person is a crime in the State of Georgia. Even if the person does not intend to shoot the person, the simple act of pointing a gun at them is a crime.
Prohibited Weapons
Under the Georgia Firearms and Weapons Act, certain weapons are entirely prohibited due to their dangerous nature and potential for causing widespread harm. Possessing these items is a serious offense, punishable by significant fines and imprisonment. The following weapons are illegal in Georgia:
- Bazookas
- Hand Grenades
- Mortars
- Rocket Launchers
- Sawed-Off Shotguns and Rifles (barrel or overall length below regulated limits)
- Silencers (unlawfully installed on firearms)
The possession, transportation, or sale of these prohibited items is a felony offense, often carrying a prison sentence of up to five years.
Penalties for Weapon Crimes in Georgia
Weapon-related offenses in Georgia carry significant legal consequences, reflecting the state’s firm stance on maintaining public safety. From enhanced sentences for possessing or using weapons during a felony to penalties for illegal possession or carrying without a permit, these charges come with severe repercussions. By hiring The Abt Law Firm, our criminal defense team will work tirelessly to reduce or dismiss your charges entirely.
Georgia law is particularly strict on individuals caught using weapons to threaten or harm others, with sentences ranging from steep fines to life imprisonment. Understanding these laws and their associated penalties is crucial for anyone facing such charges, as even minor violations can result in devastating, long-term consequences.
Possession of a Weapon During the Commission of a Felony
Georgia law imposes additional penalties for possessing a weapon while committing a felony, such as robbery, sexual assault, or drug trafficking. For instance, if an individual uses or even merely carries a firearm or knife during a violent crime, they face enhanced charges for the possession of a weapon during a felony. This could result in additional prison time served consecutively to the underlying felony sentence.
Illegal Possession of Firearms
Illegal possession charges typically involve individuals who aren’t allowed to possess firearms under Georgia law. This includes convicted felons, individuals under restraining orders, and those deemed mentally unfit. Convicted felons caught in possession of a firearm face felony charges with potential prison terms ranging from one to ten years.
Carrying a Weapon Without a Permit
While Georgia allows permitless carry for eligible individuals, there are still strict regulations regarding carrying weapons in certain settings or for those ineligible under state or federal law. Carrying a weapon without the proper permit in restricted areas, such as schools or government buildings, can result in significant penalties, including hefty fines and imprisonment.
Using a Weapon in the Commission of a Crime
The intentional use of a weapon to threaten, harm, or kill someone is treated severely under Georgia law. Crimes such as assault with a deadly weapon or aggravated assault carry enhanced sentences ranging from several years to life imprisonment, depending on the circumstances and severity of the offense.
Penalties for Weapons Violations in Georgia
Weapons charges often carry severe penalties, reflecting the state’s strong stance against illegal use, possession, or sale of firearms and prohibited devices. Common penalties associated with weapons charges in Georgia:
- Possessing a Prohibited Weapon: Prison term of up to 5 years.
- Possessing a Gun in a School Zone: Felony charges with 2 to 10 years of imprisonment.
- Pointing or Discharging a Gun in Public: Punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, or both.
- Possession of a Weapon During a Felony: Additional prison sentences on top of penalties for the underlying felony.
Georgia law also penalizes the possession of a gun or a knife during the commission of a felony. This means that if a person had a gun during a sexual assault or robbery, they would be convicted of the possession of a weapon during a felony.
Why Choose The Abt Law Firm, LLC?
Our firm takes a personalized approach to every case, thoroughly reviewing the details, crafting tailored strategies, and aggressively advocating on behalf of our clients. We have established strong relationships with prosecutors and judges throughout Georgia, enabling us to strategically negotiate and position your case for the best possible outcome.
We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with weapon charges, which is why we’re dedicated to protecting your rights, your future, and your freedom every step of the way. Starting with a free consultation, we will listen to your story, assess your situation, and provide clear guidance on your legal options.
With The Abt Law Firm, you’re not just another case—you’re a client we are committed to defending with skill, dedication, and unwavering support. Contact us today to take the first step toward a strong defense.
Work with Our Experienced Weapon Crimes Defense Attorneys
The Abt Law Firm, LLC is experienced in handling weapons possession cases throughout the State of Georgia, including charges that involve possession of a firearm during a felony, possession of a sawed-off shotgun or silencer, possession of a concealed weapon. If you’ve been charged with weapons possession in Georgia, contact our legal team to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
