Massachusetts enforces some of the strictest gun laws in the nation, and facing a gun possession charge in Wayland can have severe consequences, including mandatory jail time. If you have been arrested for possessing a firearm without a license, carrying a loaded weapon, or transporting an illegal gun, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight for your freedom.
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we specialize in firearm defense cases in Wayland and throughout Middlesex County. We understand Massachusetts' complicated firearm regulations and are dedicated to protecting your rights in court.
π Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation with a top Wayland criminal defense attorney.
Understanding Massachusetts Gun Possession Laws
Under MGL Chapter 269, Section 10, unlawful possession of a firearm is a felony in Massachusetts, and the state enforces strict mandatory minimum sentences. Even if you legally own a gun in another state, Massachusetts does not recognize out-of-state permits.
Common Firearm-Related Charges in Massachusetts
π΄ Unlawful Possession of a Firearm β Carrying a firearm without a valid License to Carry (LTC) or Firearm Identification (FID) Card is a serious offense.
π΄ Carrying a Loaded Firearm Without a License β This crime carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 2.5 years in state prison.
π΄ Possession of a Firearm in a Vehicle Without a Permit β Firearms must be legally registered and properly transported.
π΄ Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon β Convicted felons are prohibited from firearm possession under state law.
π΄ Possession of a High-Capacity Firearm β Massachusetts bans certain semi-automatic firearms and large-capacity magazines.
π΄ Possession of a Stolen or Unregistered Firearm β If law enforcement finds you with a stolen firearm, you could face additional felony charges.
Penalties for Gun Possession in Massachusetts
Gun possession charges in Massachusetts carry some of the toughest penalties in the country, including mandatory prison time.
Potential Sentences for Firearm-Related Offenses:
- Unlawful Firearm Possession: 18 months to 5 years in state prison
- Carrying a Loaded Firearm Without a License: Mandatory 2.5-year sentence (no parole eligibility)
- Possession of a Firearm in a Vehicle Without a License: Minimum 1-year jail sentence
- Possession of a Firearm by a Felon: 3 to 15 years in prison, with no parole for at least 5 years
- Possession of a High-Capacity Firearm: Additional sentencing enhancements apply
π¨ Additional Consequences: A conviction can result in a lifetime firearm ban, difficulty finding employment, and damage to your reputation.
Statute of Limitations for Gun Possession Cases in Massachusetts
The statute of limitations for gun possession charges in Massachusetts is six years. However, ongoing police investigations and evidence collection may affect when charges are officially filed.
If you believe you are under investigation or have been recently arrested, contacting a Wayland gun possession lawyer as soon as possible is critical.
Defenses Against Gun Possession Charges in Wayland
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we fight aggressively to get gun possession charges reduced or dismissed. Common defense strategies include:
β Illegal Search & Seizure β If law enforcement obtained evidence without a warrant or probable cause, the case may be thrown out.
β Lack of Knowledge or Ownership β If you were unaware of the firearm's presence, we can challenge possession claims.
β Valid Firearm License Defense β If you legally owned the firearm and were arrested in error, we will fight for dismissal.
β Police Misconduct or Rights Violations β If your constitutional rights were violated during the search or arrest, we can challenge the prosecution's case.
β Constructive Possession Argument β Simply being near a firearm does not necessarily mean you were in possession of it.
Wayland District Court Information
If you are facing gun possession charges in Wayland, your case will be handled at:
π Framingham District Court
Address: 600 Concord St., Framingham, MA 01701
Phone: (508) 875-7461
Hire a Wayland Gun Possession Lawyer Today
A gun possession conviction in Massachusetts can result in serious legal consequences, including mandatory prison time. If you have been arrested in Wayland, you need a skilled and aggressive defense attorney to fight for your rights.
π Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation.
Our Wayland gun possession defense lawyers are prepared to stand up for you!
Contact a Wayland Gun Possession Defense Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one is facing gun possession charges in Wayland, don't delay seeking legal help. The sooner you reach out, the stronger your defense can be.
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
π 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
π (857) 229-2442
π¨ Facing gun possession charges in Wayland? Call now for a free, confidential consultation.