Weapons Charges Lawyer in Council Bluffs, Iowa

The use of weapons is strictly regulated in Iowa and other parts of the United States. While the right to bear arms is protected by the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, there are federal and state laws that govern how weapons should be used to protect the safety of others. When people violate those laws, they can face weapons charges that carry significant penalties.  

At Jay W. Mez, Attorney At Law, I am experienced in handling all types of firearm-related offenses in the state of Iowa. I understand the serious nature of weapons charges and fight tenaciously to protect my clients’ rights, freedom, and criminal record. As a weapons charges attorney in Council Bluffs, Iowa, I am dedicated to providing the accused with vigorous representation and unparalleled legal guidance. My law firm proudly serves Montgomery County, Page County, Cass County, Pottawattamie County, Fremont County, Mills County, and Shelby County.  

Iowa Law Regarding Weapons and Firearms 

Iowa law prohibits carrying a handgun on your body (both openly or concealed) and in a vehicle within the limits of a city. It is also against the law to carry other dangerous weapons concealed on the body regardless of whether the person is within the city limits or in rural areas. These restrictions do not apply to individuals who: 

• have a valid permit to carry weapons 

• are in their home, place of business, or on owned/rented land 

• carry a stun gun and are at least 18 years of age 

• carry an unloaded gun or another dangerous weapon located in a luggage compartment or closed container 

• lawfully engage in target practice, fishing, or hunting  

• is a police officer, corrections officer, or military member carrying out their duties 

If a person is caught violating the above-mentioned restrictions, they will typically face aggravated misdemeanor charges. However, the penalties may be reduced if the defendant was carrying a concealed knife that has not been used to commit a criminal offense. For the purposes of Iowa law, dangerous weapons include firearms, daggers, razors, knives with a blade longer than five inches, switchblades, as well as stun guns and Tasers.  

Illegal Gun Use in Iowa 

In Iowa, it is a Class D felony if a person has a gun and they:  

1. have a felony conviction or an equivalent juvenile offense on their record;  

2. have been convicted of misdemeanor domestic abuse; or 

3. are subject to a protective order for committing domestic violence.  

The defendant may also face a Class D felony if they possess certain types of dangerous weapons, including grenades, machine guns, bombs, ballistic knives, and short-barreled shotguns. Iowa law also specifically prohibits certain uses of weapons, including the following: 

• firing a gun intentionally and recklessly 

• setting a spring gun 

• shooting at an occupied vehicle or building 

• showing a dangerous weapon in a threatening way or pointing it at someone 

Depending on the circumstances of such an offense, the punishment can range from a simple misdemeanor to a Class C felony. No matter what weapons charges you are facing, I can help. At Jay W. Mez, Attorney At Law, I represent people accused of all types of weapons violations and am dedicated to getting the best possible outcome for every client I represent.  

The Consequences of a Weapons Charge 

A conviction for a weapons charge in Iowa can have life-altering ramifications. When being accused of a firearm-related charge, your freedom and future may be on the line. If you are convicted, you may face years behind bars in a local jail or state prison, not to mention the hefty fines, probation, and loss of certain rights. In addition, your criminal record can follow you for the rest of your life, restricting your employment and housing opportunities. As an attorney at Jay W. Mez, Attorney At Law, I understand the gravity of weapons charges in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and will fight to defend your rights, minimize the penalties, or achieve a complete dismissal of the charges.  

How Can a Council Bluffs Weapons Charges Attorney Help You? 

A skilled attorney can provide the guidance you need when facing weapons charges at every step of the legal process and assist with:  

• gathering and preserving evidence to prove your innocence or get a reduced sentence; 

• identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case; 

• exploring strengths in your case; 

• mounting an effective defense strategy; 

• negotiating with prosecutors on your behalf; and, 

• advocating for your freedom and future. 

What’s more, your attorney will provide you with the emotional support you need when navigating the criminal justice system. With an attorney in your corner, you can enjoy a sense of security and peace of mind knowing that your best interests are being well represented in the courtroom.