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A Skilled Defense Against Federal Firearms Charges

The penalties for federal firearms violations are extremely harsh. Individuals who are convicted of federal gun crimes face prison sentences and expensive fines. If you or a loved one was charged with a federal offense, it is critical to seek the assistance of a trial attorney who is licensed to practice in federal court and who has a deep understanding of federal law and federal court procedures.

Attorney Matthew J. Mankey of the Mankey Law Office in Golden Valley, Minnesota, has more than two decades of criminal defense experience. He has extensive experience defending clients against federal firearms charges in Minneapolis and the western suburbs-area federal district courts and the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in St. Louis.

Call 612-424-9454 to request a free criminal defense consultation with Mr. Mankey. We urge you to contact us as soon as you know you are under investigation.

Federal Weapons Violations And Penalties

A conviction under a federal firearm statute generally results in five to 10 years in prison and fines. The exact sentence depends on the specific offense and your criminal record, among other factors. If your case is linked to another crime, such as human trafficking or drug trafficking and conspiracy, the prison sentence would be much longer.

Weapons offenses can be prosecuted by the state of Minnesota or the federal government, with the feds focusing primarily on the importation and manufacture of firearms as well as weapons offenses linked to other crimes. However, federal law (18 USC § 922) allows criminal punishment for anyone who attempts to:

  • Import, produce or transfer firearms across state lines without a license to do so
  • Transport certain weapons that are deemed destructive, like bombs and grenades
  • Perform a straw purchase of a firearm
  • Destroy or alter a serial number on a firearm
  • Sell a firearm illegally
  • Possess a firearm illegally (known as unlawful possession or felon in possession); convicted felons, people with certain mental health impairments, anyone who has been dishonorably discharged from the military and undocumented immigrants are among those who cannot legally possess a firearm

You can be convicted of “felon in possession” even if the weapon was not found on your body or in your property. The government only needs to prove you had an intent and ability to control the weapon.

Put Over 30 Years Of Criminal Defense Experience On Your Side

If you face federal weapons charges, the early intervention of a qualified criminal defense attorney is critical. Mr. Mankey is prepared to fight to protect your rights, future and freedom. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may have a variety of viable defense options.

One powerful defense strategy is to determine whether the search and seizure that resulted in your charges was legal. Did the investigating officers have a warrant, just cause or your permission to search your vehicle or your property? If Mr. Mankey finds that police violated your rights at any time, a judge could be forced to exclude evidence.

Other defenses include arguing that you were justified in possessing a gun due to necessity and that there was no reasonable alternative.

Protect Your Future With An Experienced Attorney By Your Side

If you are under investigation for a federal weapons offense or you have been arrested and charged with a crime, put our lawyer Mr. Mankey on your side as soon as possible. Timing is critical in federal criminal law cases.

We will review your case during a free, no-obligation consultation. This is your chance to speak with Mr. Mankey and learn what steps to take. Send us an email to schedule your appointment for a free initial criminal defense consultation.