Weapons Charges
Experienced Gun Charge Lawyers in Glen Burnie, MD
Items That May Result in Charges
Weapons charges can stem from possession of seemingly common items, especially when carried illegally or used unlawfully. Knowing what items could land you in legal trouble is essential:
- Switchblades or Automatic Knives: These are considered illegal under Maryland law and can lead to serious charges when found in your possession.
- Unregistered or Improperly Stored Firearms: Guns that are not properly registered or stored according to state law can result in criminal penalties.
- Pepper Spray or Mace Used Outside Its Legal Context: Using pepper spray or mace aggressively or for non-defensive purposes is punishable by law.
- Bowie Knives and Similar Blades: Large, combat-style knives are often categorized as dangerous weapons and can result in charges when carried in public.
- Concealed Razors or Box Cutters: Even tools like razors or box cutters can be classified as concealed weapons if not carried appropriately.
- Brass Knuckles: Possession of brass knuckles is illegal in Maryland and may lead to immediate arrest and prosecution.

Types of Criminal Cases We Manage in Glen Burnie, MD
Our law firm has handled a broad range of weapons-related cases in Glen Burnie. Our weapons charges lawyer handles multiple types of cases. These include:
- Illegal Possession of Firearms: Charged for owning a firearm without a valid permit or proper documentation.
- Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm: Accused of firing a gun in a prohibited area or reckless manner.
- Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person: Allegations against individuals with prior felonies or domestic violence convictions.
- Firearm Trafficking: Charged with transporting or selling firearms without a license.
- Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Crime: Facing enhanced penalties for using a weapon during a robbery or assault.
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without a Permit: Accused of hiding a weapon on your person or in your vehicle unlawfully.
- Assault With a Deadly Weapon: Charged with threatening or attacking another person using a gun or other weapon.
- Federal Gun Charges: Facing charges at the federal level involving weapons across state lines or on federal property.
- Juvenile Gun Offenses: Minors caught in possession of a firearm or involved in weapons-related crimes.
- Defense of Self-Defense Claims: Asserting the right to protect yourself or others from harm when facing gun charges.
- Domestic Violence Involving Firearms: Cases where weapons are involved in domestic disputes or protective order violations.
- Gun Crime Cases Involving Mental Health Issues: Addressing charges where mental illness plays a role in possession or use of a weapon.
Defense Process for Gun Crimes in Glen Burnie
Weapon charges are a serious matter in the state of Maryland. Our weapons charges attorney uses a strategic, step-by-step approach to build a strong defense:
- Consultation: We begin with a confidential case review to understand your side of the story and assess legal options.
- Investigation: Our team gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and examines police conduct for procedural errors.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges before your case goes to trial.
- Plea Bargaining: If appropriate, we negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges for favorable outcomes.
- Trial Preparation: We develop a detailed trial strategy, identify expert witnesses, and prepare you to testify if needed.
- Trial: Our attorneys present your case before a judge or jury, challenging the prosecution’s evidence and advocating aggressively.
- Post-Trial Motions: If convicted, we may seek a new trial or reduced sentence based on legal grounds.
- Appeal: We review the trial record for reversible errors and pursue appellate relief when warranted.
How the Law Office of Peter S. O'Neill Can Help With Your Case
When you’re facing a weapons charge, having a strong legal defense is essential. Here’s how we can help:
- Thorough case evaluation and personalized defense strategy
- Aggressive challenge of illegally obtained evidence
- Negotiation of reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Trial representation with a proven track record of success
- Support through every step of the legal process
Why Choose the Law Office of Peter S. O'Neill in Glen Burnie?
With decades of courtroom experience and thousands of criminal defense cases successfully handled, our firm is a leader in weapons charge defense throughout Glen Burnie and Anne Arundel County. Mr. O’Neill’s extensive legal knowledge, dedication to justice, and professional recognition make him one of the most trusted criminal defense attorneys in the region.
- Over 38 years of criminal defense experience
- Recognized Super Lawyer by Baltimore Magazine
- Appointed to judicial nomination commissions by three Maryland governors
- One-on-one attorney access throughout your case
- Reputation for results and relentless advocacy
