Arrested for Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm in Massachusetts? Our Defense Attorneys Are Prepared to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been arrested or charged with Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm in Massachusetts, the stakes are high — your freedom, reputation, and future are all on the line. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we understand the seriousness of these charges and the complexities of Massachusetts gun laws. With offices in Boston and Salem, our team is ready to provide focused, aggressive legal representation across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties.
Our criminal defense law firm is composed of experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorneys, including a former prosecutor who brings critical insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases. Whether you’re from Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy — we are prepared to help you understand your rights and defend against firearm-related charges.
Understanding Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm in Massachusetts
The gun regulations in Massachusetts are among the most stringent in the nation. It is unlawful to intentionally own or carry a large capacity weapon without a current License to Carry (LTC), as stated in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 269, Section 10(m).
A large capacity firearm generally refers to:
- A semi-automatic handgun or rifle that can hold more than 10 rounds.
- A semi-automatic shotgun that holds more than 5 shells.
Being caught with a large capacity firearm without proper licensing is a felony and could result in:
- Mandatory minimum 1-year jail sentence, with potential prison time of up to 10 years.
- Additional penalties if the firearm was loaded, possessed in a motor vehicle, or within 1000 feet of a school.
The penalties are severe, and the stakes are high. You need a Massachusetts firearms attorney who understands how to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and advocate fiercely for your rights.
How Our Criminal Defense Law Firm Can Help
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we take your case personally. We approach each matter with a deep understanding of the law, an aggressive strategy in court, and a commitment to protecting your freedom.
When you choose our law firm, we will:
- Investigate the legality of the search and seizure—many gun charges stem from questionable police stops.
- Review whether the firearm truly meets the legal definition of a large capacity weapon.
- Analyze your licensing history and firearm registry for possible defenses.
- Represent you through pre-trial motions, suppression hearings, and trial, if necessary.
Our law firm’s presence in Boston and Salem allows us to represent individuals throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties, including:
- Boston, West Roxbury, Brighton, Chelsea
- Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
No matter where you are, our aggressive criminal defense attorneys are ready to stand with you.
More Than Just Defense – We Help Protect and Restore Your Gun Rights
Our practice isn’t limited to criminal defense. We also assist individuals throughout Massachusetts with firearms licensing issues. As experienced Massachusetts firearms attorneys, we provide guidance and representation for:
LTC Application Assistance
Obtaining a License to Carry (LTC) in Massachusetts can be difficult. The application process is strict and often varies by city or town. We can guide you through each step, help you avoid application pitfalls, and present your case effectively to the licensing authority.
Non-Resident Temporary LTC
If you’re visiting or working in Massachusetts but reside out of state, we help you apply for a Non-Resident Temporary LTC through the Massachusetts Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS). These licenses are valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Restoration of Gun Rights Following Conviction
Certain criminal convictions can result in a permanent ban on firearm ownership. However, under certain circumstances, you may petition for the Restoration of Gun Rights. We assess your eligibility, prepare your petition, and represent you during the appeal process.
Appealing Firearm License Denials
If your LTC application was denied or your firearm license was suspended or revoked, you have a right to appeal under M.G.L. Chapter 140, Section 131(f). Our attorneys help build strong appeals and present your case in court when necessary.
Why Choose Our Firearms Attorney for Your Case?
We know the law. We know the courts. And we know how to fight for our clients. Our aggressive criminal defense attorneys have a proven track record of challenging serious gun charges and getting results. Whether you’re facing a Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm charge or need help with an LTC Application, we’re ready to step in and help you move forward.
Every case is unique, and we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all defense strategies. That’s why we take the time to understand your story, review the evidence, and build a personalized defense plan that gives you the best chance at success.
Work With an Experienced Massachusetts Firearms Attorney Today
Being charged with a firearm-related offense or struggling through the firearms licensing process in Massachusetts is not something you should navigate alone. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson provides skilled representation across the full range of firearm-related legal issues, including Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm, LTC Applications, Appealing Firearm License Denials, and Restoration of Gun Rights Following Conviction.
Our criminal defense law firm is built on courtroom experience, legal knowledge, and a serious commitment to defending your rights. With offices in Boston and Salem, we’re prepared to help residents of Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties who need a knowledgeable and aggressive criminal defense attorney. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and get a defense team that takes your case as seriously as you do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with Carrying a Firearm Without a License in Massachusetts?
Do not speak to the police without legal counsel. Contact a qualified Massachusetts firearms attorney immediately to protect your rights and begin building your defense.
Can I carry a firearm in Massachusetts if I have a license from another state?
No. Massachusetts does not honor out-of-state firearm licenses. You must apply for a Non-Resident Temporary LTC to legally carry a firearm if you are not a Massachusetts resident.
How do I appeal a denied LTC application in Massachusetts?
You have the right to appeal to the District Court in your jurisdiction. An experienced firearms attorney can help you gather supporting evidence and present a compelling argument for reconsideration.
What are the penalties for carrying a firearm without a license in Massachusetts?
You could face up to five years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of 18 months if convicted under M.G.L. c. 269, § 10. Additional penalties may apply if other circumstances are involved.
Can I restore my gun rights after a criminal conviction in Massachusetts?
Possibly. The ability to regain firearm rights depends on the type of conviction and how much time has passed. our law firm offers services focused on the Restoration of Gun Rights Following Conviction to eligible individuals.