Unlawful Purchase of a Firearm
Unlawful purchase of a firearm is a serious criminal offense in the state of Colorado. An individual arrested for unlawful purchase of a gun can expect to face harsh penalties including crippling fines and incarceration. Unfortunately, these are not the only consequences a person may face after a weapons conviction.
Not only does an individual have to face serious statutory penalties, but the negative social stigma from weapon accusations can also seem unbearable. A firearm conviction can hinder your ability to obtain employment, housing and professional licenses. This is why if you have been charged with unlawful purchase of a firearm, it’s important to seek an experienced criminal defense attorney. In cases like these, it’s best to reach out to Colorado firearm attorney Matthew A. Martin at Law Office of Matthew A. Martin, P.C.. Contact him today to discuss your case.
Unlawful Purchase of a Firearm Attorney | Denver, CO
If you have been arrested for unlawful purchase of a firearm, it’s within your best interest to consult a Denver firearm defense attorney experienced in criminal law. Matthew A. Martin at Law Office of Matthew A. Martin, P.C. has over 28 years of experience defending individuals charged with felonies, misdemeanors, and DUIs. He can zealously defend you and your rights.
Attorney Martin knows how to protect his clients from overblown charges and serious consequences. Call (303) 725-0017 to set up your first, initial consultation with him. Law Office of Matthew A. Martin, P.C. serves individuals throughout the Denver area and surrounding areas including Broomfield County, Douglas County, Jefferson County, Boulder County, and Adams County.
Information Center
- Unlawful Purchase of a Firearm in Colorado
- Who is Prohibited from Obtaining a Firearm in Colorado?
- Additional Resources for Unlawful Purchase of a Firearm
Unlawful Purchase of a Firearm in Colorado
Colorado Revised Statutes 18-12-111 establishes that unlawful purchase of firearm is a serious crime. According to the statute, the act occurs when an individual knowingly purchases a firearm and transfers it to someone else they know cannot possess guns under Colorado or federal law.
In Colorado, weapon crimes are aggressively prosecuted. Section 18-12-111 classifies unlawful purchase of a firearm as a class 4 felony which carries a sentence of 2 to 6 years in prison and $2,000 to $5,000 in fines. There is also a mandatory parole period of 3 years.
This specific firearm law additionally states that licensed gun dealers who fail to post a sign (displaying the provisions of 18-12-111) in the area where he or she sells firearms to the general public, is guilty of a class 2 petty offense. Upon conviction, the defendant will face a $250 fine.
Who is Prohibited from Obtaining a Firearm in Colorado?
According to The Gun Control Act (GCA) listed in 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), it is illegal for certain individuals to ship, transport, receive, or possess firearms or ammunition in the country. This federal law prohibits the following people from doing so in the state of Colorado:
- Individuals convicted of domestic violence crimes
- Convicted felons
- People addicted to controlled substances
- Fugitives from justice
- Individuals who have been adjudicated as mental defectives or committed to any mental institution
- Illegal aliens in the United States
- Individuals who have been discharged from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions
- Individuals who have renounced their U.S. citizenship
- Individuals convicted of any crime carrying a prison term of more than 1 year
Additional Resources for Unlawful Purchase of a Firearm
Department of Public Safety: Colorado Gun Laws – Follow the link to visit the official website for the Colorado State Patrol Department of Public Safety. The webpage discusses Colorado’s current laws concerning firearms and answers several frequently asked questions such as “how do I obtain a Concealed Weapon Permit?”
Colorado Revised Statutes: Firearm Crimes – Visit the official website for the Colorado Revised Statutes to read about the state’s current laws for firearm. The site also lists how each weapon crime is penalized.
Colorado Bureau of Investigation: Firearm Prohibitors – Visit the official website for the Colorado Bureau of Investigation Department of Safety. Access the site to see a list of certain individuals the United States and Colorado prohibit from obtaining a firearm.
Denver Firearm Defense Attorney, Colorado
When it comes to criminal cases, weapon charges can be awfully worrisome. Aside from imprisonment and harsh fines, offenses such as unlawful purchase of a firearm can mark your criminal record. If you or someone you know is facing charges for unlawful purchase of a firearm, contact Law Office of Matthew A. Martin, P.C..
Criminal defense attorney Matthew A. Martin has over 28 years of experience defending individuals accused of weapon crimes. He can utilize his knowledge to develop a strong defense strategy for your case. Call him today at (303) 725-0017 to schedule a free, initial consultation. Attorney Martin has offices in Denver, CO but he represents clients in surrounding counties including Douglas County, Broomfield County, Jefferson County, and Boulder County.