Guns and Weapons Charges
Criminal Defense for Firearms & Weapons Charges in Arizona
Firearms and Weapons Offenses
Weapons and firearm-related charges in Arizona can range from relatively minor offenses, such as carrying a weapon without the proper permit, to serious crimes like assault with a deadly weapon. As a result, the potential penalties vary significantly and can include steep fines and lengthy prison sentences. Navigating these charges—especially when they involve documentation issues or the alleged use of a deadly weapon—can be extremely complex without guidance from a knowledgeable attorney.
If you’re facing gun or weapons charges in Arizona, it’s crucial to work with a defense lawyer well-versed in state firearm laws. At Rowley Chapman & Barney, Ltd., our experienced criminal defense attorneys have successfully represented clients in a wide range of weapons-related cases. Contact us today at (480) 833-2341 or reach out online for trusted legal support in Mesa.
Arizona Weapons Laws
Although Arizona is known for having some of the most relaxed gun laws in the country, the state also imposes some of the harshest penalties when a firearm is involved in a criminal offense. Prosecutors across Arizona often follow a strict “use a gun, go to prison” policy, which frequently leads to plea deals that include mandatory prison time.
Various actions can lead to criminal charges involving a firearm or deadly weapon. These include displaying a weapon in a way that disturbs others, unlawfully transporting or selling firearms, possessing or defacing a weapon, and using a gun during the commission of a felony. Discharging a firearm—whether in an attempt to commit a crime or in a prohibited public space—can also lead to serious charges.
Arizona Revised Statute §13-3102 outlines a wide range of weapons offenses, including the unlawful possession of a firearm by individuals with prior felony convictions or those who lack legal immigration status. It is also against the law to possess a firearm while committing any drug-related offense, even minor ones like possessing marijuana or drug paraphernalia.
One of the most serious charges is assault with a deadly weapon, which can result in decades of imprisonment. Arizona authorities aggressively prosecute weapons offenses, and those facing such charges should be prepared for the state to pursue the case to the fullest extent.
Prevalence of Firearm and Weapons Offenses
In 2011, Arizona saw over 5,000 robberies involving deadly weapons such as guns and knives, along with approximately 10,000 aggravated assault cases where a deadly weapon was used. Firearms were involved in more than 40% of weapon-related robberies and accounted for 23% of all aggravated assaults in the state that year. Anyone facing firearm-related charges is up against serious legal consequences and must understand their rights to effectively defend against a conviction.
How Does Arizona Define a Weapon?
Guns and knives are widely recognized as weapons, with firearms specifically classified under Arizona law as “deadly weapons” due to their design for lethal use. However, Arizona’s legal definition of a weapon is much broader. Any object used to threaten, harm, or endanger someone—or anything used with the intent to inflict bodily injury—may be considered a weapon or a “dangerous instrument.” Items that have been legally classified as dangerous instruments include a CO2 pellet gun, golf club, rock, stick, sock (used to strangle), and even a Bible.
Arizona law also prohibits possession of certain items, including bombs, grenades, automatic firearms, Molotov cocktails, improvised explosive devices, nunchakus, specific chemicals, and even dry ice, depending on how they’re used. While some items may be legal to possess under normal circumstances, if they’re used or intended to be used to cause harm, they can be considered weapons under the law. Because the list of potentially illegal or dangerous weapons is so extensive and context-dependent, it’s crucial to understand when you might be violating Arizona’s weapons laws.
Facing Gun or Weapons Charges in Arizona?
Weapons charges in Arizona are legally complex and serious. The broad definition of what constitutes a weapon means many objects could result in a criminal charge depending on how they’re used. If you’ve been accused or charged with a weapons-related offense, it’s essential to consult with a knowledgeable attorney right away to ensure your rights are protected.
Defending Against Weapons Charges in Mesa
At Rowley Chapman & Barney, our experienced Mesa criminal defense lawyers are ready to defend you against charges such as illegal possession, assault with a deadly weapon, or any other weapons-related allegations in Arizona. If you’ve been arrested, call us first—we’re available 24/7 to help.
