This article is being written to conclude and recap my series on the handling of “felon in possession of a firearm” charges in Peoria, Illinois. I decided to write on this topic due to the fact that, for understandable reasons, those with a prior record may be unsure of what to do after they are arrested. It is important for those who find themselves in such circumstances to understand that they have options. The goal of my last several articles has been to provide information which will help people to better understand their situations. It has also been my goal to provide information which will assist with the selection of a criminal defense lawyer. If you are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with an attorney.
I have addressed a number of topics over my recent articles. Subjects which I have discussed include:
- Federal charges involving felons who possess firearms
- The right of probation officers to search Peoria defendants
- How such and seizure issues impact Peoria felons who possess firearms
- The government’s need to prove that a felon possessed the gun
There are multiple reasons why I chose to address these topics. First, defendants in such matters will often find themselves charged in Federal Court. Under 18 USC 922(g), it is a federal violation to possess a firearm after having been convicted of a felony or domestic violence. This means a defendant may find themselves prosecuted by the US government. Second, those on probation or parole do not have the same rights against search and seizure as the rest of the citizenry. Third, defendants who have completed their supervision can possibly gain a dismissal by showing that law enforcement found the gun only by violating the Fourth Amendment. Finally, as with other criminal charges, the prosecution must be able to prove the case at trial.
One point I stressed through each of these articles is the need to contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately if you or a family member have been arrested. Counsel will help you to understand your options and will explain what you can expect from the process. As a former prosecutor, I am experienced in handling such matters. I am familiar with our local court systems and I take pride in the level of service my office provides. Call today to speak with a Peoria gun crimes attorney. I also serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford. I also handle federal cases in Urbana.