It is no secret that gun laws are a hot button debate topic across the country. With school shootings constantly taking place in different states, it is difficult to watch television without it being mentioned.
Many people are advocating for stricter gun laws while many others feel it will not change much. A recent study by the Violence Policy Center found that states with relatively relaxed gun policies are home to some of the highest suicide rates in the country. States with higher rates include Montana, Alaska and West Virginia.
Montana and Alaska has a rate of 15 gun suicides per 100,000, which is much higher than states with stricter gun laws like New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts. New York has about two gun suicides per 100,000 people.
On top of these statistics, it was recently reported that guns account for five percent of suicide attempts and are responsible for 50 percent of suicide deaths. This shows that using a gun to attempt suicide increases the likelihood of it being successful.
Of course, the debate still rages on as to whether or not stricter gun laws actually do play a role in low suicide rates as well as other acts of crime.
Strict Gun Laws Mean Severe Penalties
What there is no debate over is what happens to those who violate strict gun laws in New Jersey. Penalties are in place that include jail time, jail time without parole eligibility and fines. In New Jersey there is also the Graves Act, which imposes a minimum term of imprisonment and parole ineligibility for certain gun-related offenses.
These offenses include the following:
- Possession of a defaced firearm
- Defacement of a firearm
- Possession of a sawed-off shotgun
- Unlawful possession of a machine gun, handgun, rifle or shotgun
- Possession of a firearm while in the course of committing a drug distribution or possession with intent to distribute
- Possession of certain weapons by persons already convicted of specified offenses
- The manufacture, transport or disposition of a machine gun, sawed-off shotgun or assault firearm
If convicted, the penalties you will face will alter your life. That is why you need an experienced lawyer on your side.
Contact NJ Criminal Defense Lawyers to Fight Weapons Charges
In New Jersey, look no further than the law firm of James M. Porfido for help. His criminal defense experience can help build you a strong defense against weapons charges you may be facing.
It is difficult to combat gun and weapons charges on your own, and a conviction will mean severe penalties like fines and jail time. In addition, your reputation will be tarnished for the rest of you life.
Let James M. Porfido keep your charges from ruining your life. Fill out the online contact form to begin discussing your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.