Experienced Firearms Defense Lawyer In North Carolina
Last updated on August 19, 2026
If you’re accused of violating North Carolina’s gun laws, you need criminal defense counsel with experience in defending against firearms charges. Our criminal defense attorney at Fitzpatrick Law Firm can protect you against all types of gun charges and help you understand the potential freedoms and liberties you could lose if a criminal court finds you guilty. We focus on pursuing the outcomes you want in your firearms case, whether inside or outside the courtroom.
Facing Any Of These Gun Charges? We Can Help.
We can offer a robust defense when you’re facing:
- Illegal gun possession charges
- Gun trafficking charges
- Improper gun storage charges
- Weapons assault charges
- Illegal sale or transfer of firearms charges
We understand that weapons charges are unique and your situation won’t look the same as someone else’s. These cases can be complicated, but with our lead attorney Mr. Michael C. Fitzpatrick’s experience defending North Carolinians against various gun charges, you can feel confident knowing we have your back. Call us at 252-999-8746 so we can begin your defense strategy today.
Consequences For Gun Convictions In North Carolina
If you are found guilty of violating North Carolina’s gun laws, you can expect to face a lengthy jail or prison sentence, expensive fines, and probation. However, these can often depend on the circumstances surrounding your violation. Penalties can increase if you have prior convictions, such as being involved with illegal drugs or gang activities, or if minors were present at the time of the offense.
A Gun Charge Can Affect Job Prospects
Weapons charges can result in job loss or limit your employment opportunities with the military, law enforcement or other careers that require a high level of trust. A weapons charge could also restrict your ability to retain a professional license.
You may feel overwhelmed trying to navigate your weapons charges, but we are here to help. Our strong knowledge of state and federal gun laws, the local court system, and our successful record of managing these cases allows us to devise a compelling and thorough defense strategy for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gun and criminal law issues can be stressful, especially when the firearm is not yours. The potential consequences of a gun charge will depend on the exact facts, the location of the firearm, and whether any prior convictions or permit issues are involved. In North Carolina, even a simple situation can raise complicated legal questions, so it is important to understand how you can protect your rights.
Can authorities charge me with possessing a gun that belongs to someone else?
In North Carolina, you can potentially be charged even if the gun is owned by someone else. What matters is whether you possessed or exercised control over the weapon, not just who the legal owner is. For example, if the police find a gun in your car or in a place the state claims you controlled, this can support a charge. Ownership is not always the deciding factor because the law often focuses on possession rather than title.
What happens if the police find a gun during a traffic stop?
Finding a firearm does not automatically mean that a crime occurred, but the police may investigate whether someone lawfully possessed or carried the weapon. Officers may ask questions about gun ownership, permit status, and lawful carrying or transportation of the firearm. In North Carolina, a traffic stop can lead to arrest or seizure of a firearm if the police believe there is a violation, such as unlawful possession, carrying a concealed weapon without a concealed handgun permit or possession by a prohibited person.
Even if no one gets arrested immediately, officers can take the firearm as evidence while they investigate the case.
Can a convicted felon possess a firearm in North Carolina?
Generally, no. North Carolina law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm. Federal law also bars felons from possessing firearms. This restriction is broad and may include actual possession, constructive possession and ammunition, depending on the charge. A conviction can lead to serious criminal penalties, and even brief possession can be enough for a charge. Firearm possession by a felon is rarely restored, so seeking legal confirmation is essential.
Contact Our Qualified Greenville Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you find yourself facing weapons charges in North Carolina, you may feel anxious and uncertain about your future. It’s a normal feeling to have. We’re here to tell you that fighting to reduce or drop your weapons charge is possible.
Schedule a free consultation with our firm today to learn more about how we can help. You can reach us today by calling 252-999-8746 or sending us an email.
