Facing Firearms Charges in Massachusetts? Our Defense Attorney Is Ready to Defend Your Rights
If you’ve been charged with a firearm-related offense in Massachusetts, your next steps could have a major impact on your freedom and future. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is a trusted criminal defense law firm with offices in both Boston and Salem, Massachusetts. We offer aggressive representation for individuals accused of gun-related crimes, and our team includes experienced firearms attorneys and a former prosecutor who understands how the system works from both sides. Whether you’re in Suffolk County, Essex County, Middlesex County, or Norfolk County, our team is ready to fight for your rights and protect your future.
Experienced Massachusetts Firearms Attorney Protecting Your Rights
When you’re facing serious firearms charges, the legal landscape in Massachusetts can be especially complex and unforgiving. With strict gun laws and mandatory minimum penalties, you need a criminal defense attorney who understands the stakes and knows how to navigate the courts effectively. Our criminal defense law firm is known for personalized legal strategies, courtroom focus, and results-driven representation. Whether your case involves carrying a firearm without a license or improper storage, we take your case personally and approach it with the attention it deserves.
Massachusetts Firearms Charges We Handle
Firearms charges in Massachusetts can carry severe consequences. Many of these offenses are governed under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 269, which covers crimes against public safety and includes strict penalties for illegal possession, improper storage, and other firearm-related offenses. Below are the primary charges we defend and the legal background behind each.
Illegal Possession of a Firearm
Under M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(a), it is illegal to possess a firearm outside your home or business without a valid License to Carry (LTC). This charge carries serious penalties, including mandatory minimum jail time upon conviction. Even if the firearm is legally owned in another state, Massachusetts law still requires compliance with local licensing regulations. If you’ve been charged with Illegal Possession of a Firearm, our Massachusetts firearms attorneys are ready to assess your case and build a strong defense.
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we know how to challenge the legality of searches and arrests related to firearm possession. We understand the importance of every detail in firearm cases and can help protect your rights during investigation and trial. With our deep familiarity with M.G.L. c. 269 and local enforcement trends, we offer practical, strategic guidance. Don’t risk your freedom—let our criminal defense attorneys evaluate the charges and prepare a defense that works for you.
Carrying a Firearm Without a License
Carrying a firearm without an LTC is prosecuted under M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(h) and often involves penalties of up to two and a half years in jail, or more for repeat offenses. This charge applies whether or not the firearm was loaded or used. A valid LTC must be in your possession at the time of the alleged offense. Our aggressive criminal defense attorneys help clients contest such charges through pre-trial motions, negotiations, or trial when necessary.
If you’re facing this charge, our criminal defense law firm brings extensive courtroom experience to defend your rights. We analyze all evidence, from the initial stop to the firearm’s discovery, to ensure your rights were not violated. We understand what it takes to challenge flawed police procedures or improper stops. A conviction can have lifelong consequences—let our firearms attorneys protect your future.
Unlawful Possession of Ammunition
Under M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(h)(1), possessing ammunition without a valid Firearm Identification (FID) card or LTC is a separate criminal offense in Massachusetts. Many people are surprised to learn they can be charged even without having a firearm in their possession. Penalties can include fines and imprisonment. If you’ve been accused, you need a defense attorney who understands the nuances of this law.
We’ve defended clients facing ammunition-related charges and understand how prosecutors build their cases. Our Massachusetts firearms attorneys examine whether law enforcement violated your rights during searches or failed to establish your knowledge of the ammunition. We’re ready to step in and help you defend against these charges.
Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm
This serious charge, governed by M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(m), involves possessing a firearm capable of holding more than ten rounds without the appropriate license. In Massachusetts, a Large Capacity License is required, and the weapon must be lawfully registered. Violations carry enhanced penalties, including potential mandatory minimum sentencing. These cases require a detailed legal approach due to the complex nature of firearm classifications and licensing.
At our criminal defense law firm, we work with experts when needed to challenge the classification of the firearm involved. We also look at whether the firearm was lawfully owned or lawfully stored, and whether any procedural rights were violated during your arrest. If you’ve been charged with this offense, reach out now for a strategy session with our defense attorneys.
Improper Storage of a Firearm
Improper storage of a firearm is charged under M.G.L. c. 140, § 131L, which requires that firearms be stored in a locked container or equipped with a tamper-resistant locking device unless carried or under direct control. A violation of this law, even without any actual use of the firearm, can result in criminal penalties. If the firearm was accessible to minors, the penalties are more severe.
Our team helps clients defend against these charges by challenging evidence, police procedures, and the definition of “proper storage” in each unique context. Whether in your home, vehicle, or place of business, our criminal defense attorneys investigate every aspect of the case. We are committed to protecting your rights while navigating this strict area of Massachusetts firearms law.
Firearms Legal Services We Offer
In addition to defending criminal charges, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is also a trusted Massachusetts gun rights attorney. Our services extend beyond courtroom representation to help you maintain or restore your legal rights related to firearm ownership.
LTC Applications
Obtaining a License to Carry (LTC) in Massachusetts is a highly regulated process governed by M.G.L. c. 140, § 131. Even minor issues in your background or documentation can result in delays or denials. As experienced firearms attorneys, we guide clients through the application process, ensuring all legal requirements are met and that your submission is clear, complete, and fully compliant.
If necessary, we can also assist in preparing supporting documentation and legal justifications to strengthen your application. Our goal is to position you for a successful outcome and help you legally exercise your Second Amendment rights in Massachusetts.
Non-Resident Temporary LTC
Massachusetts also offers a Temporary Non-Resident License to Carry Firearms under M.G.L. c. 140, § 131F. This license allows non-residents to carry firearms while visiting the state, but the application process can be complex and highly discretionary. Applicants must submit forms through the Massachusetts Firearms Records Bureau and meet strict criteria.
Our criminal defense law firm helps non-resident clients complete the application correctly, respond to any follow-up inquiries, and ensure all legal standards are met. We work to minimize complications and improve the likelihood of approval for lawful visitors who require a temporary LTC.
Appealing Firearm License Denials
If your firearm license has been denied or suspended, you have the right to appeal under M.G.L. c. 140, § 131(f). Our law firm has extensive experience representing individuals in these appeals, working to reverse unjust decisions by police chiefs or licensing authorities. We prepare all necessary evidence, including affidavits, hearings, and expert testimony, to support your case.
Restoration of Gun Rights Following a Conviction
Having a criminal conviction can disqualify you from possessing firearms in Massachusetts. However, certain individuals may qualify for relief under the law. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson assists clients in petitioning for the restoration of their rights, following strict legal standards and timelines.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Law Firm
When you’re facing criminal charges, particularly firearm-related offenses, you need more than just representation—you need defense attorneys who understand the law inside and out. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we take every case personally and treat our clients with the dignity and dedication they deserve. Our experience includes former prosecutorial insight, giving us an edge in understanding how the other side builds a case.
We are known across Massachusetts for our aggressive criminal defense and successful results in complex firearms cases. From navigating local gun regulations to challenging the constitutionality of evidence, we bring precision and focus to every courtroom appearance.
Contact a Massachusetts Firearms Attorney Today
If you’re facing firearms-related criminal charges or are seeking help with a gun license application or appeal, contact our experienced defense attorneys today. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is committed to protecting your rights with personalized legal strategies and dedicated courtroom advocacy. We are proud to serve clients from our offices in Boston and Salem, and throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties. Let our criminal defense law firm help you take the next step forward. Contact us now to set up a strategy session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be charged in Massachusetts for a gun I legally own in another state?
Yes. Massachusetts does not recognize gun permits from other states. Possession of a firearm without a valid Massachusetts LTC is a criminal offense under M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(a).
What qualifies as a large capacity firearm in Massachusetts?
A firearm capable of holding more than ten rounds is classified as large capacity under Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(m)). You must have a license specifically for large capacity firearms.
Is ammunition illegal to possess without a license in Massachusetts?
Yes. Under M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(h)(1), it is illegal to possess ammunition without the appropriate FID card or LTC, even if you don’t have a firearm.
What happens if my gun was not properly stored but never used?
Improper storage of a firearm is still a criminal offense under M.G.L. c. 140, § 131L. Penalties vary depending on the circumstances, including accessibility to minors.
Can I appeal a denial of my firearms license?
Yes. You have the right to appeal a firearms license denial to the district court under M.G.L. c. 140, § 131. We can represent you in this process.