What Gun Applications Could I Get into Legal Trouble for Making False Statements On?

Knowingly false statements on any government forms could get you in legal trouble. Specifically, the types of gun applications you might fill out in Pennsylvania include the Federal Firearms Transaction Record Form, the Pennsylvania State Police Application/Record of Sale Form, and the Application for Pennsylvania License to Carry Firearms. Some of the questions that appear on these forms can be complicated, and their wording can be confusing. If you’re unsure about how to correctly answer a question, you might mistakenly think that if your answer is wrong, you will just have to fix it later. In reality, the worst-case scenario is far more serious than having to resubmit a form or even being denied the opportunity to purchase a gun. You could be facing felony charges and, potentially, years in prison.

What Should I Do If I’ve Made a Mistake on a Gun Application in Pennsylvania?

Honest mistakes happen, but they can still put you at risk of suffering harsh penalties if you are convicted of making false statements on a gun application. If you realize you made a mistake before the application has been submitted, don’t proceed with the application that contains false information. Let the seller know you misspoke and correct the mistake immediately. This is important because even a small, seemingly harmless mistake like an incorrect former address, a wrong date, or outdated employment information could be enough to get you charged with a crime. Double-check all information you provide on a gun application. If you are notified that the State Police have requested an interview with you, it’s time to consult a weapons offenses lawyer. This interview is neither a standard part of the gun application process nor without risks to you. Notify the police that you are exercising your right to remain silent, and speak to an attorney about this legal matter as soon as possible. Even if you haven’t yet been formally charged with the crime of making false statements on a gun application, proceeding with a police interview without the guidance of your attorney can hurt you.

Luzerne County False Statements on Gun Applications Lawyers | Firearm License Falsifying Information Charges Defense Attorneys Kingston, PA

Firearm License Falsifying Information Charges Defense Attorneys in Kingston, PA, Assist Clients Accused of Lying on Gun Forms in Luzerne County, Lackawanna County, Columbia County, and Throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania

Did you know the answers you provide on a gun application form could land you in major legal trouble? False statements on gun license applications in Pennsylvania can get you charged with a felony and facing years in prison. If you have been charged with falsifying information, you need the services of seasoned Luzerne County false statements on gun application lawyers.

Before this difficult legal situation can get any worse, you should retain an attorney at Muckler Law, LLC, to defend you. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

False Statements on Gun Application Charges in Luzerne County, PA

A complicated combination of state and federal laws apply to gun sales. Requirements to legally purchase a gun from a retail establishment in Pennsylvania include submitting an application and undergoing a background check.

Under statute 18 Pa.C.S. Section 6111(g)(4) of Pennsylvania law, knowingly or intentionally making false or deceptive statements on a gun application is a crime. This offense encompasses providing:

False written statements on forms
False oral statements
False identification or identification materials intended to deceive the seller

Similarly, making false statements on an application for a license to carry a firearm (concealed on your person or in a vehicle) can subject you to criminal penalties under statute 18 Pa.C.S. Section 6109(c).

Areas Where Our Luzerne County False Statements on Gun Application Lawyers Can Assist You

Muckler Law, LLC, represents clients whose alleged false statements on gun applications were made at retail establishments throughout Luzerne County, as well as defendants who live, work, and purchase firearms here. From our office on Market Street in Kingston, PA, we serve areas like the following:

Hazleton
Wilkes-Barre
Nanticoke
Pittston
Hanover Township
Plains Township
Hazle Township
Butler Township
Dallas Township
The remainder of Luzerne County
Columbia County and Lackawanna County

For skilled defense against weapons charges throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania, turn to our firearm license falsifying information charges defense attorneys in Kingston, PA.

The Consequences of Making False Statements on a Gun Application in Luzerne County

Under Pennsylvania law, false statements on a gun application can result in felony charges of the third degree. These are serious charges. If convicted, you could be sentenced to up to seven years of jail time. You could also be fined up to $15,000.

These are some harsh consequences for a statement on a form. That’s why you need a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney on your side as soon as possible to begin preparing your defense and advocating for your best interests.

Potential Defenses for Falsifying Gun Applications in Pennsylvania

Charges for making false statements on a gun application don’t necessarily lead to convictions. With skilled legal representation on your side, it’s possible to put together a strong defense and pursue a more positive outcome to the case against you. Common defenses to false statement charges include the following.

The False Statements Were Honest Mistakes

The crime of falsifying information must be done knowingly, intentionally, willfully, or with intent to deceive. Depending on the facts of the situation, it may be possible for your attorney to defend you by arguing that the inconsistencies or false statements weren’t intentional deception but rather honest mistakes. Some segments of the form may be complicated, and genuine mistakes can occur without any intention to deceive.

If you are charged with falsifying statements on a gun application, the prosecutor will have to prove in its case against you that the misinformation was an intentional lie. In your defense strategy, your attorney can point out the flaws in the prosecution’s case and the ways in which it fails to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

However, even if the false statement wasn’t an intentional deception, you still need knowledgeable Luzerne County false statements on gun application lawyers to guide you through the legal process and represent you in all proceedings. Simply telling the police or the prosecutor that you made a mistake on your form usually isn’t sufficient to get the matter dropped once you have been formally charged with a crime.

The False Statements Were Not Material to the Sale of the Gun

Pennsylvania law specifies that the offense encompasses “any materially false” statement on an application. Generally, a statement is considered to be material if it affects or could affect the outcome of an application or proceeding.

In particular, false statements that appear to be an attempt to conceal a criminal record can get you in trouble, since your criminal record is materially relevant to whether or not you are permitted to purchase a gun. That said, even false statements about prior criminal records may be genuine mistakes, especially if the past brushes with the law occurred a long time ago and the potential gun purchaser received a lighter sentence than the maximum penalty that could have been imposed.

If there’s any question about whether the false statements you’re accused of making were material to the gun application or if you’re accused of lying about your criminal record, it’s essential that you seek help from skilled firearm license falsifying information charges defense attorneys in Kingston, PA, as soon as possible.

The Evidence Against You Was Obtained Through Improper Procedures

You provided the information contained in your gun application to the authorities, but a case may be made for obtaining other evidence through improper procedures. For example, if the police continued to question you even after you told them you wanted to remain silent and consult an attorney, there may be grounds to argue that any incriminating statements you may have made were not obtained through proper procedure.

How Our Luzerne County False Statements on Gun Application Lawyers Defend Clients Charged With Lying on a Gun Permit Form

It takes a thorough review of the facts of your case and the evidence against you to determine the path forward. Our Luzerne County false statements on gun application lawyers will start by gathering information and investigating the incident. We’ll devise a legal strategy custom-tailored to your unique circumstances and work tirelessly to craft the most robust defense possible.

By exploring all avenues and options, we will take active steps toward achieving a more positive resolution in the case against you.

Contact Our Luzerne County False Statements on Gun Application Lawyers at Muckler Law, LLC, Today for a Free Consultation

The steps you take right now could have a major impact on the future consequences of the criminal charges you’re facing. The most important move you can make is to retain qualified legal representation. You want to put your case in the hands of an attorney who understands the nuances of charges involving false statements on gun applications.

For help from falsifying information on gun permit application attorneys in Kingston, PA, contact Muckler Law, LLC online or call 570-908-4069 today.

Luzerne County False Statements on Gun Application Lawyers