The state of New York has well-defined laws governing the purchase, possession and carrying of firearms. The state also clearly regulates the types of guns that may be used, possessed, purchased or sold. What many people do not know, however, is that the law also identifies those instances where it is a crime to discharge a weapon. Specifically, it is unlawful to discharge a firearm:
- In a way that causes the load of the firearm to pass over a public highway—This can include guns used while hunting
- Within 500 feet of a residence, farm building or farm structure that is actually occupied or used
- Within 500 feet of a school building, school playground, church or occupied factory
- In any public place, or in any place where a person is endangered by the discharge
If you have been charged with unlawfully discharging a firearm in the state of New York, you want an experienced lawyer to protect your constitutional rights. The penalties can be severe, but you can raise defenses or offer mitigating circumstances to minimize the consequences.
At the Law Offices of Scott J. Limmer, we have handled criminal matters involving people throughout Queens County, Nassau County and Suffolk County for more than 13 years. Attorney Limmer is a former New York district attorney—we understand how prosecutors prepare and present their cases. We know how they evaluate evidence and what they will give the most weight to. We can help you take proactive steps to minimize the consequences of an arrest of unlawfully discharging a weapon.
We also know from experience that police and prosecutors can be overzealous in their efforts to get a conviction. They may obtain information from an anonymous or unreliable source, and conduct an illegal search or seizure. They may fail to properly advise you of your constitutional rights when taking you into custody.
The district attorney’s office takes weapons offenses seriously. The laws are also designed to impose harsh penalties, even on first time offenders. It is critical that you have an experienced and aggressive attorney to protect your rights.
Contact the Law Offices of Scott J. Limmer
To schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced New York criminal defense lawyer, contact our office by e-mail or call us toll free at 888-238-0888. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We take all major credit cards and will set up payment plans for qualified clients.
