Georgia law respects the right to bear arms, but possession of certain weapons is restricted. In Georgia, weapons like machine guns, sawed-off shotguns, and guns with modifications like silencers are categorized as “dangerous weapons,” and they are illegal to possess.
What Are the Consequences for Possession of a Dangerous Weapon in Georgia?
Georgia considers possession of a dangerous weapon to be a felony. The consequences of being found guilty include a prison term of up to five years or longer. Felonies remain on your permanent record and can jeopardize your future job prospects and ability to find housing.
Possession of a Dangerous Weapon During Commission of Certain Offenses
Gun possession is frequently charged in addition to other crimes. The following additional charges change the offense from “possession of a dangerous weapon” to “possession of a dangerous weapon during commission of certain offenses”:
- Aggravated assault
- Aggravated battery
- Involuntary manslaughter
- Voluntary manslaughter
- Murder
- Felony murder
- Any home invasion including robbery and armed robbery
- Arson
- Certain drug crimes, including intent to distribute, transport, or manufacture
- Threats of terrorism
- Witness intimidation
- Gang-related crimes
What Are the Consequences for Possession of a Dangerous Weapon During Commission of Certain Offenses?
Possession of a dangerous weapon during the commission of certain offenses is a different charge with different penalties than simple possession. It includes a prison sentence of up to ten years, which must be served consecutively with any other charges. That means the sentences cannot be served at the same time and must be served one after the other—in short, more time in prison. In Georgia, there is no opportunity to have the charge suspended or to serve probation for the charge. Subsequent convictions for this charge can include life in prison.
Fighting Possession of a Dangerous Weapon Charges
Georgia takes gun charges seriously, but there are ways to fight them and win. At The Turner Firm, we stop at nothing to help our clients maintain their freedom and keep charges off their permanent records. We aggressively investigate charges, finding any cracks in the case that we can exploit. Our thorough preparation means we know more than the prosecution, and we use that to our advantage.
If you’re facing charges for possession of a dangerous weapon, contact us to request a free, no-obligation online consultation.