Weapons Charges Defense In St. Paul

Last updated on May 4, 2025

Facing a weapons charge can be stressful and intimidating. You might face accusations of illegal weapon possession, concealed weapon violation or serious firearm charges. Minnesota law covers many kinds of gun charges. These include unlawful carry defense, unregistered weapon allegations and dangerous weapon charges. A weapon charges attorney can help you understand your case. Knowing the details and outcomes is crucial when your future is at risk.

With more than 25 years of experience, Gerlach Law offers practical, caring defense in St. Paul, Minnesota. I know how scary it can be to face a criminal charge. I have met many innocent people whose lives have been destroyed because they could not afford an expensive lawyer. 

My advocacy is to provide skilled yet affordable legal representation for anyone who needs it. That is why I provide free initial consultations and even offer home visits for those who can’t come to my office. I treat every client like I would my friend. I keep whatever you say to me in complete confidentiality. I do this while giving clear advice and skilled help tailored to your needs.

What Factors Determine Whether A Weapon Charge Is Classified As A Misdemeanor Or Felony?

Several factors decide if a weapon charge is a misdemeanor or felony:

• The type of weapon, such as a firearm, knife or banned device.
• The actions performed with the weapon, including carrying, brandishing or discharging the weapon.
• The location, including carrying or discharging a weapon in a prohibited place.
• The accused’s intent, such as using a weapon for self-defense instead of using it to commit crimes such as robbery, burglary or murder.
• Prior criminal history, especially for felons in possession or unlawful arms possession defense.
• Circumstances, such as a loaded firearm in a car, unsafe storage, or illegal weapon sales.

Common charges include concealed weapon violations, assault weapon possession, unlicensed firearms and federal firearm regulation violations, like machine guns or silencers. The outcome depends on the case details. A weapon charges lawyer can help you explore options and build a strong defense.

How Do Prior Criminal Convictions Affect Weapon Possession Charges?

Prior criminal convictions make weapon possession charges harsher:

• A past felony often leads to felon in possession charges. These have mandatory minimum sentences and are usually felonies.
• Prior convictions reduce chances for diversion programs or plea deals.
• Multiple offenses bring harsher penalties, like longer prison or federal charges.

Even a minor criminal record affects your right to own firearms or weapons. Courts view unlawful possession by an ineligible person, reckless firearm discharge or false statements on gun applications seriously. A weapon charges attorney can guide you through these issues and protect your rights.

Types Of Weapon Charges Handled

I defend clients against many weapon-related offenses, including:

• Weapon possession by a minor or ineligible person
• Carrying without a permit or unregistered weapon allegations
• Assault with a deadly weapon or brandishing defense
• Unlawful discharge of a weapon or intentional discharge endangering safety
• Illegal weapon sales and firearm regulation violations
• Federal charges, like possession of a machine gun or silencer

I handle every case with care and focus on practical solutions. When needed, I meet clients at their homes in the Twin Cities.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Have you or a loved one faced weapon charges in St. Paul or the Twin Cities? Call Gerlach Law at 952-952-9723. You can also fill out this intake form to contact me.