Common Questions About Gun Use in Crimes

March 15, 2015

The right to own firearms is protected by the U.S. Constitution. Most of the time, gun owners use their guns responsibly—that is, if they use them at all. However, some people use their guns to threaten, injure, and kill others. Gun laws exist to hold irresponsible individuals accountable and deter others from misusing their firearms. That said, there are times when the law is applied unfairly. If you’re accused of a gun-related crime, it’s important that you hire a criminal defense attorney to help protect your rights.

When is it illegal to carry a concealed firearm?

Compared to other states, Arizona has fairly lenient gun laws. Still, it’s important for all gun owners to understand the law’s intricacies. Though most citizens over 21 are permitted to carry a concealed weapon without a permit, there are some limitations. For example, it is illegal to carry a gun onto school grounds, into a polling place on Election Day, or into a business that serves alcohol.

What’s the difference between assault and aggravated assault?

The involvement of a firearm can make a crime much more serious. For example, simple assault becomes aggravated assault once an individual uses a gun to make a threat. Discharging a firearm can be tried as criminal negligence or attempted murder, depending on the shooter’s intent. It’s not unusual for a crime involving a gun to be tried as a felony and punishable by serious jail time.

How can I lose my right to own firearms?

If convicted of a gun-related crime, an individual may lose his or her right to own a firearm. Any felony conviction—whether it’s gun-related or not—will also lead to the forfeiture of one’s gun rights. In some cases, an attorney may be able to help individuals restore their gun rights after conviction.

Tucson attorney Janet Altschuler has an extensive military background, and is knowledgeable about gun-related crime in Arizona. Call our Tucson office if you’ve been accused of a gun-related crime or if you believe your rights have been compromised.