Common Mistakes That Can Lead to Gun Charges in Indiana
Gun charges are among the most serious criminal charges you can face in Indiana. A conviction for a gun crime can come with serious consequences. For example, you could be sent to jail for years and asked to pay thousands of dollars in fines. Additionally, being convicted of a gun crime means that you will have a criminal record, which can impact many aspects of your life for a long time. Many people get charged with a gun crime because they unknowingly made a mistake. Unfortunately, in many cases, lack of knowledge or ignorance is not a valid defense in a criminal case. Arming yourself with knowledge can help you avoid legal pitfalls.
At Rigney Law LLC, we understand the severity of gun charges in Indiana. That is why, in this article, we share some of the common mistakes that can lead to gun charges in Indiana. By understanding these mistakes, you can take proactive steps to avoid them and ensure you abide by the law.
- Carrying a Gun in a Restricted Place
One of the most common mistakes people make that result in them being charged with a gun crime in Indiana is carrying a weapon in a restricted place. While Indiana law does not require a permit or registration to carry a firearm outside of your home, there are certain places where you may not be allowed to have a gun. For example, you cannot carry a firearm on someone’s private property if they prohibit gun possession on their property. It may also be illegal to carry a firearm in an educational institution, government building, or airport.
- Selling a Gun to an Intoxicated Person and Other Buyers Who Are Off-Limits
Gun sellers know that they are not allowed to sell a gun to someone who is below the age of 18. However, most people do not know that it is a crime to sell a firearm to someone who is intoxicated during purchase. Other individuals you should not sell guns to if you are a gun seller in Indiana include individuals convicted of felony offenses, mentally incompetent people, and drug or alcohol abusers.
- Misusing a Firearm
In Indiana, the only time you are allowed to point a gun at someone is in a legitimate self-defense situation where there is an imminent threat of harm. If you brandish your firearm in a situation where there is no imminent threat of harm, you might find yourself in legal trouble. Avoid brandishing a firearm just to feel safer and secure.
What To Do if Charged With a Gun Crime
If you are faced with gun charges in Indiana, it is vital that you take the situation seriously and proceed with caution. The following are some of the steps to take if you are charged with a gun crime in Indiana;
- Obtain legal help from an experienced criminal defense attorney
- Avoid talking to the police without an attorney present. Exercise your right to remain silent, as anything you say to the police can be used against you.
- Be honest with your attorney so they can effectively represent you
- Follow your attorney’s advice
Legal Help Is Available
When faced with gun charges, don’t face the situation alone. Contact our skilled Indianapolis gun crime lawyers at Rigney Law LLC to get the help and support you need to navigate your case effectively.
