Fort Myers Gun Crime Lawyer

Gun Crime Attorney in Fort Myers, FL

Even as gun laws change in Florida, state prosecutors still harshly go after those who break weapons laws. If you are convicted of a weapons offense, it may lead to fines, imprisonment, and even the loss of your gun rights. A Fort Myers gun crime lawyer can help you navigate weapons offense charges, from owning an illegal weapon to committing a serious violent felony with a firearm. It’s crucial that you have the right attorney when navigating the justice system.

Work With a Fort Myers Gun Crime Attorney From Atlas Defense Law

Atlas Defense Law has almost two decades of legal experience and has navigated over 50 trials, resulting in several acquittals. Our firm understands the intricacies of the criminal justice system in Fort Myers, including the process in the Sixth District Courts serving Lee County.

We know that it can be frustrating to deal with this legal landscape, especially if you’ve never dealt with criminal charges before. We can provide you with compassionate support and guidance regarding gun charges.

Benjamin Abdulnour responds to calls to the firm personally and is a seasoned trial attorney who can fight for you in or out of court. He listens to your situation and stands by you. When you face gun crime charges, a personalized defense is crucial, and that is what he brings to your case. He works closely with clients to achieve optimal outcomes. Our firm is uniquely qualified to help you protect your rights and your future.

Firearm and Weapons Violations in Fort Myers

Weapons offenses include illegal possession offenses as well as violent crimes that are committed with a firearm or dangerous weapon. In 2021, there were a total of 9,893 weapons violations arrests in the state. In 2020, there were 7,508 arrests in the state and 114 arrests in Lee County for weapons violations. There were also the following criminal offenses occurring in Lee County in 2020:

• 114 out of 304 robbery offenses involved a firearm
• Three of the 239 forcible sex offenses involved the use of a firearm
• 606 of 1,525 aggravated assaults involved a firearm
• 22 of the 33 homicide offenses involved a firearm, including one manslaughter offense and 21 murder offenses, and these 22 firearm offenses involved one shotgun and three handguns

Any type of offense can lead to serious consequences, and felony offenses can lead to the loss of your gun rights. This is why it is essential to hire a gun crime lawyer to protect your freedom and your rights.

Types of Gun Violations and Offenses

There are numerous criminal offenses that involve the use or possession of a firearm, some of which include:

• Illegally conceal-carrying a weapon without a permit
• Illegal sale or purchase of a firearm
• Possession of a firearm by a felon
• Discharging a firearm in public
• Firearm possession in an airport
• Shooting into a dwelling
• Possession of a firearm against a civil court order during domestic violence cases
• Possession of a loaded firearm by a minor under the age of 16
• Carjacking with the use of a weapon or firearm
• Aggravated assault with a firearm
• Aggravated battery with a firearm
• Armed robbery
• Armed burglary

There are also aggravating factors, such as if someone was actually hurt during a crime committed with the use of a firearm.

What Are Potential Defenses to Gun Crime Offenses?

The right defense strategy for a gun crime depends on the type of offense you are being charged with. Some potential defenses may include:

• You did not knowingly possess an illegal weapon
• The use of the weapon in another offense was in self-defense, and you had reasonable cause to believe it was needed to avoid serious bodily harm or death under the Stand Your Ground defense
• A search and seizure by law enforcement was illegal, and any evidence secured in that process is inadmissible in court
• You committed the offense under duress and threat of harm
• The offense was committed by someone else and was mistaken for you

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Gun Crimes Defense Lawyer Cost in Florida?

A: The cost of a gun crimes defense lawyer in Florida varies depending on the attorney you work with. Hiring a lawyer is essential to safeguarding your rights after a weapons offense and to avoid the worst penalties. Always discuss costs upfront with a potential attorney.

Q: How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Gun Rights Back in Florida?

A: There is no specific cost to get your gun rights back in Florida. Instead, you must file an application for a full pardon or specific restoration of your gun rights with the state Clemency Board. This only applies to convictions in the state, not out-of-state or federal convictions. These offenses must be handled by the state where the conviction occurred or by a federal agency, such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

Q: What Is the New Law in Florida for Guns?

A: One new law in Florida for guns is the removal of the open carry prohibition. Effective September 25, 2025, open carry is allowed in the state under certain circumstances. If the display of the firearm is done in a manner that is threatening or angry, this is not acceptable as part of open carry. There are also still restrictions on where individuals can open carry, as schools and government buildings can refuse entry to open carriers.

Q: How Long After a Felony Conviction Can You Own a Gun in Florida?

A: There isn’t a time limit on your loss of gun rights in Florida. If you are convicted of a felony, you could potentially lose your right to own or use a firearm permanently. There are steps you can take to restore these rights, but they will not happen automatically. If you qualify for it, there is a method of clemency that can restore your civil rights, including the right to vote and/or restore your gun rights.

Navigating Your Gun Crime Cases With Skilled Legal Representation

If you have been arrested or charged with a firearm or weapons offense, Atlas Defense Law can help. Contact our firm today and let us build a fierce defense.