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Snohomish Law PLLC Snohomish Law PLLC
Gun Crimes

Gun Crimes Lawyer in Everett, WA

In Washington State, gun laws are continually evolving and heavily enforced, making any charge involving a firearm, whether possession, use, or transportation, a high-stakes legal matter. These cases carry severe penalties, including mandatory prison time and permanent loss of constitutional rights.

Snohomish Law PLLC puts Attorney Scott W. Lawrence, a trial attorney with over two decades of exclusive criminal defense experience, to work for you. We use a powerful combination of legal knowledge, scientific training, and investigative skill to defend clients facing charges under Washington State gun laws across Snohomish County and surrounding areas.

Request a complimentary in-office or convenient virtual consultation with an Everett gun crimes attorney by contacting us online or at (425) 321-3487. We speak Russian and Ukrainian and are available 24/7.

How We Defend You Against Gun Crime Charges

Gun cases often hinge on legal technicalities concerning the stop, the search, and your prior history. Our defense strategy is built on challenging the state at every possible stage.

  • Challenging the stop and search: We rigorously investigate whether the police had reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle or probable cause to conduct a search that led to the discovery of a firearm. If your constitutional rights were violated, we may move to suppress the firearm evidence, which can often lead to the dismissal of the charges.
  • Attacking possession: We challenge the prosecution's ability to prove possession, especially in cases of "constructive possession" (where the gun was not directly on your person, such as in a car). We may argue that the firearm belonged to another occupant or was not accessible.
  • Disproving knowledge: For certain charges, the prosecution must prove you knew you possessed a firearm or knew you were ineligible to have one. We work to establish a lack of criminal intent or knowledge.
  • Restoration of rights: We counsel clients who have prior convictions on the complex legal standards for restoring their firearm rights under RCW 9.41.041, and defend against charges by proving prior restoration if applicable.
Put a Proven Trial Attorney on Your Side
Whether you’re facing serious criminal charges or recovering from an injury, you deserve an attorney who’s prepared to take your case all the way to trial. Get strategic, dedicated representation from a team that fights for your future.
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Common Washington State Gun Crimes & Penalties

Washington's primary statute governing firearm offenses is RCW 9.41. The penalties for violating this chapter are severe.

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (UPFA)

This is one of the most common gun charges, triggered when a person is legally barred from possessing a firearm.

UPFA in the First Degree (Class B Felony)

  • Circumstance: Possession after being convicted of a "serious offense" (such as a violent felony, sex offense, or drug felony).
  • Maximum penalty: Up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.

UPFA in the Second Degree (Class C Felony):

  • Circumstance: Possession after being convicted of any other felony, or a disqualifying misdemeanor like domestic violence assault, stalking, or while subject to a protective or no-contact order.
  • Maximum penalty: Up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Illegal Firearms & Devices

Washington law prohibits the possession, manufacture, or sale of certain types of weapons and accessories.

  • Assault weapons: Effective April 2023, the sale, manufacture, and import of "assault weapons" are prohibited (possession is generally not prohibited but highly restricted). Violations are a felony.
  • Large capacity magazines: The manufacture, sale, or distribution of magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds is prohibited (since July 2022). Violations can lead to misdemeanor charges.
  • Other illegal items: Possession of short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, or machine guns is a serious felony offense.

Carrying & Handling Violations

  • Carrying a pistol without a permit: Having a concealed firearm in public without a valid concealed pistol license. This is generally a gross misdemeanor.
  • Weapons prohibited in certain places: Possessing a firearm in locations such as the state capitol grounds, municipal buildings, or certain sensitive areas. This violation can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the location and the type of weapon.
    Scott was very helpful in my DUI case.
    “He is very knowledgeable in the DUI field and was able to guide me throughout the process. My case did go to trial as the public prosecutor was not giving any good negotiation. Scott analyzed the case and told me to take it to trial.”
    - Former Client
    Scott goes the extra mile when representing his clients.
    “We appreciate his rapid responses to our questions, and the peace of mind knowing we had his experience on our side.”
    - Elizabeth
    His expertise, professionalism, and attention to detail are second to none.
    “Not only did he win my trial, but his knowledge of the details and his negotiation skills were instrumental in achieving a successful outcome. He was able to navigate the complex legal system with ease and always had my best interests in mind.”
    - Former Client
    Brilliant criminal defense lawyer.
    “As an experienced attorney, Scott worked diligently to present the facts of the case and ended up winning the case at trial. We would recommend Scott Lawrence, Attorney at Law, to anyone facing criminal charges.”
    - Former Client
    I highly recommend.
    “I am incredibly grateful to Snohomish Law for their dedication and expertise in resolving my case. They were professional, compassionate, and kept me informed throughout the process.”
    - Justin K.

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The Severe Impact of a Gun Crime Conviction

A conviction for a gun crime in Washington State can devastate your life long after you serve your time.

  • Mandatory prison time: Many felony gun convictions carry mandatory minimum sentences that a judge must impose.
  • Loss of Second Amendment rights: A conviction for any felony, or for certain misdemeanors (especially domestic violence assault or harassment), results in a lifetime federal and state ban on owning, possessing, or accessing firearms.
  • Mandatory sentence enhancements: If you are convicted of an underlying felony while armed with a firearm, the court must add mandatory consecutive prison time (a "firearm enhancement") to your sentence. This time cannot be reduced or suspended.
  • Deportation: For non-citizens, any conviction involving a firearm can lead to mandatory removal proceedings and deportation.
  • Reputation and employment: A conviction severely restricts career paths, particularly in law enforcement, security, or any field requiring professional licensing or a clean background check.

The landscape of firearms law in Washington is constantly changing. Our firm stays current with the latest legislative acts and court rulings to build the strongest possible defense for your case.

Contact us now online or at (425) 321-3487 for your free initial consultation with an Everett gun crimes attorney.