Protecting Your Rights and Constitutional Freedoms

Connecticut has some of the strictest gun laws in the entire United States, and even a minor firearms offense can lead to serious criminal penalties, including jail time, probation, fines, and the permanent loss of your gun rights.

At Emily Shouse, Criminal Defense Attorney, I represent individuals across Connecticut who are facing firearm-related charges or dealing with firearm permit issues. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, a paperwork mistake, or a serious allegation, I’m here to protect your rights and your future.

Common Firearm-Related Charges in Connecticut

Firearms cases can arise in many different situations. Some of the most common charges in Connecticut include:

• Illegal Possession of a Firearm

  Possessing a firearm without a valid permit, or if you’re prohibited from having a firearm due to a past conviction or a current restraining order.

• Carrying a Pistol Without a Permit

  In Connecticut, it’s a crime to carry a pistol or revolver outside of your home or business, without a valid state permit.

• Criminal Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition

  Applies to individuals who are legally barred from owning or possessing weapons, due to prior felony convictions or protective orders.

• Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm

  Firing a gun in a “reckless” manner or in a location where it endangers other people.

• Weapons in a Motor Vehicle

  Having a firearm or other weapon in your car without meeting specific storage and permit requirements.

• Assault Weapons Violations

  Connecticut has banned the possession and transfer or certain semiautomatic firearms; even unintentional possession can lead to serious charges.

• Carrying a Firearm While Intoxicated

  Carrying a weapon under the influence or drugs, alcohol, or in some cases, medication, is a separate criminal offense under Connecticut law.

Understanding Connecticut Firearms Laws

Connecticut’s gun laws are highly regulated and frequently updated. Even well-intentioned gun owners can find themselves accused of violating complicated statutes.

Some firearm cases arise from:

• Misunderstanding transport and storage laws

• Accidental discharge of a firearm in public

• Issues during a traffic stop or DUI arrest

• Temporary loss of rights after a domestic violence arrest or issuance of a restraining order

• Permit revocations or denials by the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP)

As your attorney, I can help you understand exactly what laws apply to your situation and fight to protect your rights in both criminal court and administrative hearings.

Possible Penalties for Firearms Offenses

Firearms charges in Connecticut are often felonies, which can result in:

• Mandatory jail time

• Loss of the right to possess or carry firearms

• Loss of hunting privileges

• Permanent criminal record

• Federal restrictions under U.S. law

However, not every case has to end in a conviction. Depending on the circumstances, I can work to negotiate reduced charges, diversionary programs, and even dismissals through strategic pretrial advocacy and careful planning.

Defending Against Firearm Charges

My defense approach is discreet, thorough, and aggressive. I analyze every detail of your case, including:

• Whether the stop, search, or seizure was legal

• Whether your firearm was lawfully owned or transported

• Whether your rights were violated during arrest or questioning

• Whether you qualify for programs and permit reinstatement

If evidence was obtained through an unlawful search or seizure, it may be possible to suppress that evidence and have your case dismissed.

If your Connecticut pistol permit has been suspended, revoked, or denied, you have the right to appeal that decision. This requires a hearing in front of the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners. This is often done to restore or protect gun ownership after restraining and protective orders, domestic violence arrests, dismissed criminal cases, and administrative denial or suspension for another reason.

Contact a Connecticut Firearms Defense Attorney Today

At Emily Shouse, Criminal Defense Attorney, I am dedicated to protecting constitutional rights, I am experienced in firearm laws, strategic with every case, and direct and compassionate with my approach to every case.

Many firearm-related arrests arise from misunderstandings, not malicious intent. If you have been charged with a gun or weapon-related offense in Connecticut, or you are facing issues with your firearm permit, act quickly. Call Attorney Emily Shouse today for a free, confidential consultation.