Possession or use of unlicensed firearms can land you with a number of weapons charges in Missouri. State law broadly divides charges into two categories: possession and use offenses. Penalties may include thousands of dollars in fines or mandatory prison sentences.
If you are facing weapons charges, it is important to know specifics and potential consequences you may face. Understanding the law is the first step in building a strong defense. Let’s look at the 2 major types of weapons charges.
Unlawful possession
The state generally allows adults aged 19 (18 if active military) or older to own or carry guns. But under the revised statutes of Missouri, certain groups of people cannot knowingly possess any firearms. Getting caught for possession can result in Class C or B felonies.
Prohibited individuals include:
- Convicted felons: Individuals previously convicted of a felony in Missouri, other states and under federal law
- Mentally incompetent persons: People who are currently in a mental institution or declared incompetent
- Consistently drugged or intoxicated persons: Those addicted to or habitually using controlled substances
- Fugitives: Someone who flees or hides to avoid prosecution or imprisonment
Weapons possession is usually a Class C felony that is punishable with 3-10 years of imprisonment and fines of up to $10,000. Previously convicted felons face a Class B felony for their weapons charge. If you are a repeat offender (or previously convicted of a dangerous felony), you could face 5 to 15 years.
Unlawful use
Unlawful Use of a Weapon (UUW) is a category that encompasses multiple prohibited actions involving the use of a firearm. Below are some examples of illegal offenses:
- Carrying concealed weapons in prohibited areas (i.e. schools, churches, daycares)
- Brandishing a firearm in a threatening and angry manner
- Using and possessing a firearm while intoxicated
Penalties for UUW depend on which specific violations occurred, and the severity of the offense. If your incident involves injury or death, you may face a Class A felony.
Facing serious charges
Both weapons possession or use convictions can result in long-lasting legal consequences. If you are facing criminal charges, your first step should be immediately seeking or contacting legal counsel. Law firms such as Kessler Williams aggressively defend you and protect your rights while navigating complex legal cases.