Florida prosecutors take firearm offenses very seriously in Florida.   For this reason, it is important to contact a South Florida criminal defense attorney the moment you realize you are under suspicion for committing a crime related to these offenses.   A South Florida criminal defense attorney can review the nature of the charges against you and determine what types of legal defenses may apply in your case.

Types of Firearm Offenses 

There are a number of different firearm offenses in Florida.   These crimes range from simple possession to being considered an aggravating factor that can enhance a criminal penalty.   Common firearm offenses include:

• Carrying a concealed weapon or firearm
• Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
• Possession or discharge of a destructive device
• Improper exhibition of a firearm or dangerous weapon
• Federal firearm offenses

Possible Prison Sentences

Under Florida’s 10-20-Life law, certain offenses can result in minimum prison sentences of 10 years, 20 years or a life sentence.   Certain firearm offenses can result in such punishments.   For example, if a felon is convicted of possession of a firearm and was previously convicted of a specified felony under the statute, a ten-year minimum prison sentence may be imposed.   Likewise, if a person was in possession of a firearm while committing a felony specified under the statute, he or she can receive a ten-year sentence.   A 20-year sentence may be imposed when someone used a machine while committing certain felonies.   A life sentence may be imposed if a person used a semiautomatic firearm during the commission of certain felonies.   Other gun offenses can range from three years to life in prison.

To avoid such harsh penalties, it is important for criminal defendants to seek the advice and counsel of an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney.