Maitland Weapons Crime Defense Lawyer
With growing concerns over gun violence, Florida has enforced stricter rules on buying, owning, and using firearms. While public safety is vital, strict enforcement can sometimes result in overcharging or unfair accusations—especially when someone believed they were acting lawfully.
If you are facing a weapons charge in Maitland, you need a legal advocate who knows Florida firearm laws and understands the local courts in Orange County and the Maitland area. Alers Law Firm offers experienced and strategic defense for people accused of weapons and firearm offenses in Maitland and nearby communities like Winter Park, Altamonte Springs, and Eatonville. Our criminal defense office is in Orlando at 5360 Curry Ford Rd, FL 32812, close to Curry Ford Rd and S Semoran Blvd, about half a mile from Sedano’s Supermarket (view on Google Maps).
Experienced & Highly Rated Maitland Weapons Crime Defense Attorney
At Alers Law Firm, we have years of courtroom experience and a strong track record in misdemeanor and felony cases. Our attorneys have handled offenses like concealed firearm violations, felon-in-possession cases, and federal machine gun charges.
Our firm earns positive client reviews and recognition from legal organizations, with top Avvo and Google ratings. We protect your rights, reputation, and future.
If someone has been arrested, do not wait. Call us right away at (407) 289-1862 or send the arrestee’s information through our confidential form. Our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
What Types of Weapons & Firearm Charges Do We Defend in Maitland?
Weapons and firearm charges in Maitland can range from misdemeanor offenses to serious federal felonies. Our Maitland weapons crime defense lawyers carefully analyze the details of every case to identify constitutional violations, improper searches, unlawful traffic stops, and weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.
Common weapons and firearm charges include:
- Carrying a concealed firearm or weapon without a valid permit
- Unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
- Improper exhibition of a firearm or weapon
- Possession or discharge of a destructive device
- Possession of a machine gun
- Carrying a firearm during the commission of another crime
Machine Gun Possession Charges
Machine gun possession is often prosecuted federally and carries severe penalties. Federal law defines a “machine gun” as any firearm that fires multiple rounds with one trigger pull, including certain conversion devices or parts.
These cases may involve:
- Mandatory minimum prison sentences
- Decades-long incarceration
- Permanent loss of firearm rights
- Long-term damage to employment and housing opportunities
Weapons enhancements can greatly increase penalties in criminal cases, even if the weapon was not fired. These cases need legal strategies that are carefully tailored to both state and federal law.
Sentencing for State & Federal Firearm Cases
Florida State Firearm Cases – The 10-20-Life Law
Florida’s 10-20-Life statute imposes harsh mandatory minimum sentences when a firearm is involved in certain felony offenses.
Under this law:
- 10 years minimum if a firearm was carried during the commission of a qualifying felony
- 20 years minimum if the firearm was discharged
- 25 years to life if someone was seriously injured or killed
These penalties apply no matter your prior criminal history and leave judges with very little flexibility.
Federal Firearm Charges – 18 U.S.C. § 922 & § 924(c)
Federal weapons cases are prosecuted under statutes such as:
- 18 U.S.C. § 922 – unlawful possession, trafficking, or prohibited persons
- 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) – using or carrying a firearm during a crime of violence or drug trafficking
Federal charges often carry:
- Mandatory minimums starting at 5 years
- 30-year minimums for certain weapons (e.g., machine guns or silencers)
- Sentencing enhancements based on prior convictions
Federal sentencing uses the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and can include complex enhancements that greatly increase the risk of a long prison sentence.
Dedicated Legal Defense in Maitland
Whether you are a lawful gun owner, firearms collector, or have been accused after a traffic stop in Maitland, you deserve experienced, personalized legal assistance. Many weapons charges arise from misunderstandings, improper searches, or unfamiliarity with Florida’s evolving firearm laws.
Our Maitland weapons crime defense attorneys provide:
- Thorough case investigation
- Motion practice to suppress illegally obtained evidence
- Strategic negotiation when appropriate
- Aggressive trial defense when necessary
We know how much a weapons conviction can affect your record, career, and civil rights. Our goal is to protect your future. Call Alers Law Firm today at (407) 289-1862 to talk with a Maitland Weapons Crime Defense Attorney.
