Gun possession charges in Massachusetts are taken extremely seriously, with some offenses carrying mandatory minimum prison sentences. If you have been charged with illegal firearm possession in Natick, MA, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands Massachusetts' strict gun laws and can build a strong defense on your behalf.
At Marin, Barrett & Murphy, we have successfully defended clients facing gun possession charges by challenging illegal searches, unlawful traffic stops, and weak evidence. Our team is aggressive, strategic, and committed to protecting your rights.
Call us now at (857) 229-2442 for a free consultation.
Massachusetts Gun Possession Laws
Massachusetts has some of the strictest firearm laws in the country, with severe penalties for illegal possession, carrying without a license, or possession of a firearm during a crime. The primary gun possession law in Massachusetts is M.G.L. c. 269, § 10, which covers various firearm-related offenses.
Legal vs. Illegal Gun Possession in Massachusetts
To lawfully possess a firearm in Massachusetts, you must have either:
- A License to Carry (LTC) for handguns and large-capacity firearms
- A Firearms Identification (FID) Card for rifles and shotguns
Without a proper LTC or FID card, possessing a firearm can result in serious felony charges, even if the gun is not loaded.
Types of Gun Possession Charges in Massachusetts
If you are charged with illegal firearm possession in Natick, you may face one or more of the following offenses:
- Unlicensed Firearm Possession (M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(a))
Carrying a firearm without a valid LTC
Mandatory minimum sentence: 18 months to 5 years in state prison - Possession of a Firearm Without an FID or LTC (M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(h))
Possessing a rifle, shotgun, or handgun without a license
Punishable by up to 2 years in jail and a $500 fine - Carrying a Loaded Firearm in Public Without a License
Additional mandatory minimum sentence of 2.5 years in state prison - Possession of a Large-Capacity Firearm
Harsher penalties if the firearm is considered "large capacity" (e.g., high-capacity magazines) - Possession of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony
Mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in state prison
Sentencing enhancements if used in violent crimes - Possession of an Unregistered or Stolen Firearm
Federal and state laws prohibit possession of stolen or unregistered guns
Possession of a Firearm While Under the Influence
Under Massachusetts law, possessing a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense. Pursuant to Section 10H, a person convicted of this crime faces severe penalties.
Penalties for Possession of a Firearm While Under the Influence:
- Fines: A fine of up to $5,000.
- Imprisonment: A term of imprisonment in the House of Correction for up to two and a half years.
- Combination of Both: Convicted individuals may face both a fine and imprisonment.
Penalties for Gun Possession in Massachusetts
| Charge | Potential Penalty |
|---|---|
|
Carrying a firearm without a license |
Minimum 18 months to 5 years in state prison |
|
Unlawful possession of a rifle or shotgun |
Up to 2 years in jail* |
|
Possession of a loaded firearm without a permit |
Minimum 2.5 years in state prison |
|
Possession of a large-capacity firearm |
Minimum 2.5 years in state prison/maximum of 10 years in state prison |
|
Possession of a firearm during a felony |
Minimum 5 years in state prison |
*If the firearm falls in the class of “large capacity weapons,” the penalty is increased to a minimum sentence of one year with a maximum of 10 years.
Massachusetts does not allow probation or suspended sentences for certain firearm charges—prison time is mandatory.
Statute of Limitations for Gun Possession in Massachusetts
Under M.G.L. c. 277, § 63, most firearm-related crimes in Massachusetts have a six-year statute of limitations. This means that prosecutors must bring charges within six years of the alleged offense. However, if you leave the state, the time limit may be paused, and federal charges may have different statutes of limitations.
If you suspect you are under investigation, seek legal representation immediately to protect your rights.
How We Defend Against Gun Possession Charges
At Marin, Barrett & Murphy, we use strategic defense tactics to reduce or dismiss gun charges, including:
- Illegal Search and Seizure
If police found a firearm during an unlawful search, we can move to suppress the evidence. - Lack of Knowledge
If you did not know the gun was in your possession (e.g., borrowed car), this may be a strong defense. - Traffic Stop Violations
If police illegally stopped and searched your vehicle, any firearm evidence may be inadmissible in court. - Lack of Proper Evidence
The prosecution must prove you knowingly possessed the firearm—if they cannot, we can fight for dismissal. - Licensing Issues
If you had a valid LTC or FID card but were wrongfully charged, we can present evidence in your favor.
Massachusetts Firearms Possession Laws & Penalties
In Massachusetts, firearms possession is highly regulated, and firearm crimes are taken very seriously. Police departments strictly enforce laws related to the possession, carrying, and use of firearms, and violations can result in severe legal consequences.
This is just a general overview of the firearms statutes and their penalties. A thorough review and analysis of your case is essential to provide a full understanding of your situation and to craft an adequate defense. Factors such as the circumstances surrounding your arrest, or the specific details regarding how and where the firearm was allegedly found, play a crucial role in determining the strength of the case against you.
If you are facing firearm-related charges, it's critical to work with an experienced legal team to investigate the facts and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Local Resources for Gun Possession Cases in Natick, MA
Where Gun Cases Are Heard
Most gun possession cases in Natick are heard at:
Natick/Framingham District Court
600 Concord St, Framingham, MA 01702
(508) 875-7461
Felony gun charges may be escalated to Middlesex Superior Court.
Natick Police Department Contact Information
20 E Central St, Natick, MA 01760
(508) 647-9500
Why You Need a Natick Gun Possession Lawyer
If you are charged with illegal firearm possession, your freedom and future are at risk. You need a lawyer who can:
- Challenge the evidence against you to weaken the prosecution's case
- Fight to dismiss or reduce charges and avoid mandatory prison time
- Negotiate alternative sentencing (such as pretrial diversion or probation)
- Protect your Second Amendment rights and your permanent record
At Marin, Barrett & Murphy, we have extensive experience in firearm defense cases and have successfully helped clients avoid prison sentences and keep their records clean.
Call (857) 229-2442 today for a free consultation.
Why Choose Marin, Barrett & Murphy?
- Aggressive Defense: We challenge every aspect of the prosecution's case
- Experienced Legal Team: Our attorneys have a proven track record in gun cases
- 24/7 Availability: Gun charges require immediate legal action—we are always available
- Free Consultations: No-cost, no-obligation case evaluation
- Call now: (857) 229-2442
Take Action – Call a Natick Gun Possession Lawyer Today
Facing gun possession charges in Natick, MA? Do not wait—act now. A single conviction can result in prison time, loss of firearm rights, and a permanent criminal record. Let Marin, Barrett & Murphy protect your future.
Call (857) 229-2442 for a free consultation.
Office Address: 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
Your rights matter—fight for them with an experienced Natick gun possession lawyer.
