Massachusetts has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, and even a first-time gun possession charge can result in serious penalties, including mandatory jail time. If you have been arrested for illegal firearm possession in Needham, it is critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side.
At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we understand the complexities of Massachusetts gun laws and will fight aggressively to protect your Second Amendment rights. Call us today at (857) 229-2442 for a confidential consultation.
Massachusetts Gun Possession Laws
Under M.G.L. Chapter 269, Section 10, unlawful possession of a firearm includes:
- Carrying a firearm without a valid License to Carry (LTC)
- Possessing a gun outside your home or business without a permit
- Possessing an unregistered or defaced firearm
- Carrying a firearm while committing another crime
Even if you legally purchased a firearm in another state, bringing it into Massachusetts without proper registration can still result in criminal charges.
Types of Firearms That Can Lead to Charges
- Handguns (pistols, revolvers)
- Rifles and shotguns
- Assault weapons
- Large-capacity magazines
- Unlicensed or modified firearms
Penalties for Unlawful Gun Possession in Massachusetts
Massachusetts imposes strict mandatory minimum sentences for gun-related offenses. Convictions often result in lengthy jail time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Common Gun Possession Charges & Their Penalties
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
|
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (No LTC) |
18-month mandatory minimum jail sentence, up to 5 years in state prison |
|
Possession of a Firearm in a Vehicle Without a Permit |
2.5-year mandatory minimum sentence |
|
Carrying a Loaded Firearm Without a License |
2.5 to 5 years in prison |
|
Possession of a Large-Capacity Firearm or Magazine |
2.5-year mandatory minimum sentence |
|
Possession of a Firearm While Committing a Felony |
Additional penalties on top of the original felony |
|
Unlawful Sale or Transfer of a Firearm |
Up to 10 years in state prison |
Even first-time offenders face mandatory minimum prison sentences, meaning that judges do not have the discretion to impose a lighter sentence.
Statute of Limitations for Gun Possession in Massachusetts
If you are charged with unlawful firearm possession, Massachusetts law enforces a six-year statute of limitations for prosecution. However, if the firearm offense is tied to violent crimes or felonies, the case may have no statute of limitations in some situations.
If you are being investigated or believe you may face charges, consult an attorney immediately before speaking to law enforcement.
Defenses Against Gun Possession Charges
At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we take a strategic and aggressive approach to defending gun possession charges. Common legal defenses include:
- Illegal Search & Seizure – If the police violated your Fourth Amendment rights by conducting an unlawful search, we can challenge the evidence and file a motion to suppress.
- Lack of Knowledge or Possession – If you were unaware of the firearm's presence (e.g., found in a shared vehicle or property), we can argue that you did not have actual possession.
- Failure to Prove Firearm Was Operable – If the firearm in question was non-functional, the prosecution may not have sufficient evidence to proceed.
- Improper Handling of Evidence – If law enforcement failed to properly document, store, or test the firearm, we may challenge the reliability of the evidence.
- Constitutional Violations – If your rights were violated during the arrest or interrogation, we can fight to have the charges dismissed.
Where Will My Gun Possession Case Be Heard in Needham?
If you are arrested for unlawful firearm possession in Needham, your case will likely be handled at:
Dedham District Court
📍 631 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026
📞 (781) 329-4777
The Needham Police Department is responsible for firearm-related arrests:
Needham Police Department
📍 99 School St, Needham, MA 02492
📞 (781) 455-7570
Our legal team has extensive experience defending clients in Dedham District Court and knows how to negotiate with prosecutors and judges to secure the best possible outcome.
Why Choose the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?
Not all criminal defense lawyers have the knowledge and experience to successfully handle gun possession cases. At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we provide:
- Decades of experience in Massachusetts gun law defense
- Aggressive courtroom strategies to challenge weak evidence
- A deep understanding of state and federal firearm laws
- Strong relationships with local courts and prosecutors
- A track record of case dismissals, reduced charges, and alternative sentencing
We are committed to protecting your rights, your reputation, and your freedom.
Take Action Now – Contact a Needham Gun Possession Lawyer Today
A gun possession charge in Massachusetts is a serious legal matter that requires an immediate and strategic defense. Don't wait until it's too late.
📞 Call (857) 229-2442 now to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Needham gun possession lawyer.
📍 Office Location:
572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we will fight for your rights, challenge the prosecution's case, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
