Gun Charges in Maryland
Firearm & Weapons Defense in Frederick, Carroll, Montgomery & Washington County
Being charged with a gun offense in Maryland is serious. Firearm cases often carry mandatory minimum sentences, enhanced penalties, and aggressive prosecution. If you are facing a weapons charge, the details matter — and early legal strategy can make a significant difference.
The Law Office of R. Christopher Leone, LLC represents individuals charged with firearm and weapons offenses throughout Central Maryland.
Common Gun Charges in Maryland
Maryland firearm laws are strict and technical. Charges often include:
Illegal possession of a regulated firearm
Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person
Wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun
Possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony or crime of violence
Illegal possession of ammunition
Ghost gun or unserialized firearm charges
Firearm enhancements attached to other criminal charges
Many of these offenses carry mandatory minimum penalties — especially if the State alleges a prior disqualifying conviction.
Mandatory Minimum Sentences & Firearm Enhancements
Certain gun charges in Maryland trigger mandatory incarceration if convicted. For example, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence can carry a mandatory sentence that must be served without suspension.
Prosecutors frequently use firearm charges as leverage in plea negotiations. A strong defense requires careful review of:
The legality of the search and seizure
Whether the firearm was properly recovered
Chain of custody issues
Constructive possession arguments
Prior conviction qualification
Constitutional issues under the Fourth Amendment
Search & Seizure Issues in Gun Cases
Many firearm cases begin with a traffic stop, vehicle search, or search warrant execution. If law enforcement violated constitutional protections, evidence may be subject to suppression.
Issues commonly arise involving:
Vehicle searches without probable cause
Illegal detention or extended traffic stops
Improper execution of search warrants
Consent search disputes
Constructive possession inside shared vehicles or residences
If key evidence is suppressed, the State’s case can collapse.
Prohibited Person Allegations
Maryland law restricts firearm possession for certain individuals based on prior convictions, protective orders, or other disqualifying events. Whether a prior conviction legally qualifies as a disqualifier is often a contested issue.
Not every prior offense automatically triggers firearm disability. The specific statute matters.
Strategic Defense in Firearm Cases
Gun cases require disciplined, technical defense work. This includes:
Early discovery review
Criminal history analysis
Motion practice (including suppression motions)
Examination of forensic and ballistics evidence
Negotiation strategy where appropriate
Trial preparation when necessary
Each case requires a fact-specific approach.
Contact a Maryland Gun Charges Attorney
If you are under investigation or have been charged with a gun offense, do not delay. These cases can move quickly, and the consequences can be significant.
Contact The Maryland Criminal Lawyer to discuss your situation.