In Illinois, every year we see numerous people arrested for a wide range of crimes, yet not all of these people are guilty of the offenses that they have been accused of committing. Others may have been implicated in crimes far greater than they bore any responsibility for. Whatever the case, they then face a lengthy investigative process during which they may need to challenge the charges against them in order to minimize potential penalties and protect their future.
Weapon crimes are a common example of this, as the mere presence of a weapon during the commission of certain crimes can exacerbate the resultant charges. Similarly, there are several factors, which can prohibit the possession of a weapon, such as a firearm. As such, if you are found to have a gun in your possession when you are subject to such restrictions, you could face further charges.
As this article on gun crimes explains, firearms laws vary somewhat from state to state. However, illegal gun possession can often lead to criminal charges. Of course, the problem arises if you are falsely accused of being in possession of a gun or if one is found on your property or in your vehicle. You may not know it is there, but if you have access to it, there is a chance that it could still get you into trouble.
If you have been accused of a crime involving a gun or any other kind of weapon, your next steps are critical. A good defense can be the difference between a lengthy sentence and avoiding a conviction altogether. Luckily, this is not something you need to handle alone, as an attorney may be able to support and guide you through the process. He or she can explain the charges against you and may also be able to suggest how best to present your side of the story to the court.