Skilled Orlando Trial Attorney Defends Against Weapons Charges
Aggressive defense representation for firearms violations in Florida
Florida is generally supportive of Second Amendment rights and the broader right to self-defense. However, state law imposes restrictions on gun ownership and the right to carry a concealed weapon. If you are accused of violating those laws, you could be facing a stiff sentence. The Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.A. provides effective defense representation for a wide range of weapons charges. Drawing on decades of experience, Mr. Yates uses his procedural and substantive knowledge to deliver the best result possible.
Zealous defense to a wide range of Florida weapons charges
In Florida, weapons violations can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies. The most common weapons charges brought in the Orlando area include:
- Unlawfully possessing a firearm
- Discharging a firearm in a public place
- Discharging a firearm from a vehicle
- Illegally selling or trafficking in firearms
- Carrying a concealed firearm without a permit
- Possessing a stolen firearm
- Illegally manufacturing firearms
- Using or discharging a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Storing a unsecured firearm where a minor could access it
Mr. Yates can aggressively challenge the prosecution’s case against you. Often, he is able to secure a dismissal of charges or an acquittal after a trial. In some cases, a reduction of charges or a lenient sentence may be the most positive outcome.
How Florida’s 10/20/Life statute can put your future in jeopardy
Florida laws allow prosecutors to enhance charges when a firearm is used during commission of crimes. The law demands mandatory minimum sentencing for felony convictions as follows:
- 10 years if you carried a firearm during a crime
- 20 years if the firearm was discharged during the crime
- 25 years to life if someone was seriously hurt or killed as a result of the firearm discharge during a crime
A defendant sentenced in any of these circumstances is ineligible for early release, so they must serve the entire sentence if convicted.
Penalties for unlawfully carrying concealed weapons or firearms in Florida
In Florida, you must have a license to carry a concealed firearm or other type of concealed weapon. Violations of these law carry strict penalties:
- Unlawfully carrying a firearm — This is a third-degree felony, for which you could be sentenced to five years in prison and a fine up to $5,000.
- Unlawfully carrying a weapon that is not a firearm — This is a first-degree misdemeanor, which can draw a sentence of one full year in jail and a fine up to a $1,000.
Even if you have a permit, you could be charged with a second-degree misdemeanor for carrying a concealed weapon into a prohibited place, such as any of these:
- Courthouses
- Schools, colleges or career centers
- Detention centers, jails or prisons
- Restaurants and bars that serve alcoholic beverages
- Polling places
- Airport terminals
Whatever the charges against you, you need a strong criminal defense. Mr. Yates has a track record of success and has earned the respect of the Florida legal community. When you retain his services, you can have confidence in the quality representation you will receive.
Contact a skilled trial lawyer in Orlando for a weapons defense consultation
The Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.A. defends clients accused of weapons and firearms violations in Orlando and beyond. To protect your liberty, call Tad A. Yates at 407-608-7777 or contact the firm online to schedule a consultation.