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Gun Crimes and Violation of the Uniform Firearms Act (VUFA) Charges

Gun crimes and related firearms charges often come with certain public perception implications even if the accused party has no true guilt or malicious intent. Even misdemeanor gun crimes are treated gravely and with very little leniency – even for upstanding citizens. If you’ve been charged with a gun crime or you suspect that charges may be brought against you, it’s absolutely critical that you call me to discuss this right now. The sooner you take action, the more likely it will be that you and I can work together to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

Gun crimes are taken seriously at all levels of the judicial process and gun related charges can have a lasting impact on your career, family life and public reputation. Therefore, it’s vital to have someone working on your behalf that understands the often complex Pennsylvania gun laws and can effectively produce optimal results for your case. I possess exactly that experience and can help you with all types of gun crimes cases:

*Felon in Possession of a Weapon

In most cases, people with previous felony convictions are barred from owning firearms in the United States. If they are found to be in possession of guns charges may be pressed and enhanced penalties may be imposed if convicted. These types of cases are often referred to the United States Attorney’s Office for federal prosecution. If you are charged as a former felon not to possess it is critical you contact me immediately.

*Concealed Carry Without a Permit

Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit can result in a felony conviction that could bar you from owning or possessing firearms in the future. You can be charged with this offense even if your gun is unloaded.

*Carry or Possession in Unlawful or Restricted Environment

Some buildings such as courts, public libraries, US Postal Service locations, State and Federal Parks and others areas may be restricted from carrying concealed weapons even if you have a permit. In these cases ignorance of the restriction isn’t an applicable defense and will require a competent gun crimes attorney to properly manage.

*Aggravated Assault with a Firearm

This charge is used to prosecute individuals who have been accused of assaulting someone with the use of a firearm with the intent to do serious physical harm or injury to that person. An assault charge involving a firearm can involve a mandatory minimum sentence. This is a serious offense that should be addressed carefully.

*Commission of any Felony with a Firearm

Any felony that is convicted with a firearm will almost certainly lead to enhanced sentencing. Fines and jail or even prison time may be mandatory in some cases.

*Restricted or Negligent Discharge

Discharging a weapon within a restricted distance from homes, schools, roads or other places may result in a firearms charge. This can also include negligent, inadvertent or deliberate discharge into occupied houses, vehicles, boats or aircraft.

If you’ve been charged with a firearms violation or you think that you may be charged soon, it’s important that you call me for an immediate consultation. The best defense against gun crimes charges is a proactive, concerted effort led by a veteran attorney who has worked for years with many of the people who will be involved in your case. I’ve been helping Pennsylvania citizens in the courtroom for more than 24 years, and I’m ready to put that experience to work for you right now.

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Client Testimonials

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John Biedrzycki (The Steel City Lawyer) profile picture
John Biedrzycki (The Steel City Lawyer)
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Patrick is an excellent attorney whom I've had the pleasure of referring clients to that have criminal matters more severe than my office handles. Everyone I've sent has always been appreciate of Patrick and pleased with his work.
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Tyler Calovini
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High class in what he does great guy, caring, fights for you, smart, everything you want in a lawyer and in a person Patrick helped save my life trust Patrick to do the job
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ENEK
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I LOVE this guy and what he stands for!!!
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Steve profile picture
Steve
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Thank you for your work with medical cannabis DUI laws. Unfortunately, any legislation comes too late for this Stage 4 breast cancer patient with her first DUI at age 65, loss of driver's license for a year - and lasting inability to drive to life prolonging treatment in Maryland. Not to mention thousands of $$ in fines and costs I will never be able to pay, and no mercy from a hardline D.A. in a corrupt county who wants to be A.G. Even the labs margin of error - which was three times the detected amount of .07ng/ml couldn't save me from an active AND a metabolite charge. This law will never change because there's too much money involved for counties and their "vendors". But it would be helpful for the (good guy) powers that be to keep in mind that all county-used labs/levels should be the same. It is patently unfair that had I been 20-miles west of York - in Adams County - I would have been "legal"....at a non-reportable level. And an honest, hardworking lifelong PA resident would not have had what is left of her life completely destroyed by the state she called home and paid property, wage, and other taxes to for 50+ years. I, now, hate Pennsylvania. What a racket.
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Fibonacci
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PKN Law went above and beyond to assist me and I’m unequivocally appreciative! Patrick worked efficiently to see thru my case and help me understand everything that happened along the way, the firm has my lifetime referral as long as they practice! Sincere thank you to you Patrick!
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Diana Briggs
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I recommended Patrick to a friend of our family. As I explained the details of the case to him, he said absolutely have him contact me immediately. Patrick got a successful resolution of the case for my friend. If you are in need of an attorney, look no further than Mr. Nightingale.
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Libby Mongelli
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I highly recommend Patrick if you’re looking for a criminal defense attorney. He helped me with a legal issue and was kind to me throughout the whole process, which really gave me peace of mind. Thanks to Patrick, I got the best possible results from my case. He’s also helped a few friends of mine and they had great experiences as well.
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parker babco
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On two occassions now Pat has came through and helped me immensely. Great guy with a great family, if you want someone whos going to give you the best representation in my opinion Pat is top notch.

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