Accused of a Weapons Crime in Dallas? Call Mike Howard

“I’ll Fight for You with Compassion & Integrity.”

Texas is often associated with gun ownership. However, following Texas gun laws is critical, as a weapons charge can lead to prison, fines, and loss of firearm rights. Weapons cases can involve firearms, rifles or long guns, knives, batons, et cetera.

Dallas criminal defense attorney Mike Howard has a reputation for fighting against charges and delivering fantastic results for those charged with weapon offenses. Mike is ready to hear your story and create a defense to help get your charges dropped or reduced.

With decades of experience in the Dallas area, at the Law Office of Mike Howard, we see the person, not the weapons charge. Let us give you an honest assessment of your case and how to best handle Dallas weapons charges.

Attorney Mike Howard:

  • Listens & Understands: We know that weapons charges can be confusing. We take the time to hear you and take the time to learn what you want to achieve in your case.
  • Communicates: The legal process is complex. We can explain the law, your rights, and what we need to succeed. We’ll answer your questions and keep you in the loop.
  • Fights for You: We know you’re relying on us to get you the best outcome for your situation. We can fight for you during negotiations, in court, or before any charges are filed. Mike is in your corner.

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Types of Weapons Crimes in Dallas, TX

Weapons crimes cover several allegations. First, there are offenses like unlawfully carrying a weapon and illegally possessing a firearm. Some gun offenses involve using or exhibiting a weapon during the crime, like aggravated robbery or assault with a deadly weapon.

Police and prosecutors go after weapons crimes aggressively in Dallas. An experienced and knowledgeable Dallas weapons crimes lawyer can make all the difference.

Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon

A person commits unlawful carrying of a weapon (Texas Penal Code 46.02)  if they intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carry on or about their person a handgun, illegal knife, or club if the person is not:

  • On their own premises or one under their control.
  • Inside or directly en route to a motor vehicle or watercraft owned by the person or under their control.

A person can also unlawfully carry a weapon if they intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carry a handgun in plain view in a vehicle. However, an exception to this rule is when someone is licensed to carry and does so in a shoulder or belt holster.  Carrying a weapon while engaging in criminal activity or as a member of a criminal street gang is illegal. Carrying while being legally prohibited from carrying a weapon is illegal.

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

A convicted felon commits unlawful possession of a firearm (Texas Penal Code § 46.04) if they possess a firearm before the 5th anniversary of their release from confinement, probation, or parole. Moreover, after the 5th anniversary, possessing a gun outside their home is still illegal.

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm-Related to Family Violence

Possession of a firearm is also unlawful if a person convicted of assault family violence possesses a firearm before the 5th anniversary of their release from confinement or probation.

Deadly Weapon Cases

The use or exhibition of a deadly weapon during the commission of a crime carries significant consequences. For example, assault causing bodily injury is generally a Class A misdemeanor. However, if it is committed with a deadly weapon, it becomes aggravated assault, a second-degree felony. The same enhancement applies to aggravated robbery.

See Our Results

Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon — Dismissed

Our client and her boyfriend got into an argument, and our client grabbed a knife to protect herself. The police sided with her boyfriend and arrested her for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. We convinced the grand jury to “no-bill” or dismiss the case completely, leaving her eligible for a full expunction of her record.

Other Texas Weapon Cases

  • Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon – No Charges
  • Unlawful Carrying a Weapon – Expunged
  • Unlawful Carrying a Weapon (during a DWI) – Dismissed

More Results

Weapons Charges in Dallas, TX

You’ll face incarceration, fines, and other consequences if you’re convicted of a weapons charge in Dallas. You may be prohibited from owning a firearm. Depending on your circumstances, you could face a misdemeanor or a felony. Felonies have harsher punishments, but a misdemeanor can still affect your life greatly.

Penalties & Consequences for Weapon Crimes

  • Second-Degree Felony: If you’re convicted of a second-degree felony, like Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, you face 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
  • Third-Degree Felony: If you’re convicted of a third-degree felony, like unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, you face 2 to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
  • Class A Misdemeanor: If you’re convicted of a Class A misdemeanor, like unlawfully carrying a weapon, you could face up to 1 year in jail and up to a $4,000 fine.

“Mike and his team made me feel the most comfortable...

I called a few Attorneys and Mike and his team made me feel the most comfortable. This is my first time being in a situation like this but the professionalism and communication really put me at easy especially because I’m out of state I needed someone I could trust with my life. He broke down everything for me step by step and helped me through a situation that could’ve ruined my career. So I’d like to thank Mike again for getting my case rejected!!

Ashley Thompson

Weapon Charges FAQs

Can I Expunge My Weapons Charge if it’s a First Offense?

If you’ve been convicted of a crime, you may be unable to seal the details in your record. Expunction is possible if you’ve been acquitted or had your cases dropped. If you receive deferred adjudication probation, you may be eligible to have your record sealed. An attorney can explain Texas expunction and nondisclosure laws.

What Weapons Are Prohibited in Texas?

Some people are not permitted to carry firearms, like felons or fugitives of the justice system. But some weapons are not allowed in Texas at all. Things like switchblades, brass knuckles, explosive devices, or short-barreled guns.

Can I Be Charged with Unlawful Possession if I Didn’t Know it was Prohibited?

Ignorance of the law is not a defense.

Can My Charges be Escalated to the Federal Level?

Weapons charges are generally state-level offenses, but in some cases, you could be charged federally. For instance, federal prosecutors have recently been taking over gun-related charges from state prosecutors. Federal charges are generally very serious and often carry harsher punishments.

Can a Non-Citizen Be Deported for a Weapons Charge?

An unlawful weapon possession conviction could result in deportation action, inadmissibility, or denial of naturalization to non-citizens. Federal law states that certain criminal convictions have automatic consequences. Speak with a weapons defense lawyer to evaluate your case.

Weapon Charges: Resources & Further Reading

Please visit our criminal defense resource center for more information about your rights and the legal process regarding weapons charges and other criminal offenses.

Related Articles on Weapon Charges in Dallas:

Defending Against Weapons Charges

The prosecution only wins if the jury believes their story is the only reasonable way it could’ve happened. If they doubt that it happened, they must find you not guilty. If they reasonably think it could’ve happened another way, they must find you not guilty. This is the highest burden of proof in our justice system. When implemented by a skilled Dallas weapons crimes attorney, it can be a powerful weapon.

Your attorney could introduce evidence that makes the jury question the prosecution’s story. You might not have owned the weapon in question. The law enforcement involved may not have conducted their search legally. Anything your attorney can do to bring doubt to your case can prove invaluable.

Our Promise to All Our Clients

  • A clear explanation of your case and options – We take the time to get to know you and what you need to achieve in a weapons case.
  • Your calls & messages will be answered within one business day — We use the latest technology to stay responsive and available.
  • We’re always transparent about our pricing — We’re committed to being upfront about any legal fees related to your case, so you’re never surprised.
  • We’ll craft a unique defense — Your success is our priority. We keep you at the forefront of our work to achieve your goals.
  • We Know What Works — With more than 20 years in the Dallas area, we know the prosecutors, the courts, and the police. We know how to get results.