Movie Theatre Shooting is a Reminder: NJ’s Gun Laws are Strictest in the Nation
The United States saw yet another tragic mass shooting on July 23, this time at movie theatre in Lafayette, Louisiana. While law enforcement officials are still piecing together the specifics of the incident, one thing is certain. The shooting has, once again, renewed the conversation about national gun laws.
Many believe in their right to bear arms. Others consistently call for tougher gun laws. In New Jersey, we have some of the toughest gun laws in the country. One act of gun law ignorance or ill-advised behavior in the Garden State can wind up landing you in serious trouble.
New Jerseyans facing weapons charges also, frankly, have a stigma to overcome which often spills into legislative and judicial decision making in the state. The reality is that when incidents like the recent movie theater shooting happen, or the one that took place three years ago in Aurora, Colorado, weapons offenders everywhere, no matter how minor the infraction, become potential victims of reactionary backlash.
If you are facing any weapons-related charges in New Jersey, you have an uphill battle ahead. The first thing you need to do is choose an aggressive criminal defense lawyer who will fight for your rights and your freedom. Whether you’re charged with carrying without a permit or armed robbery, the penalties for any crime you commit will be compounded when a gun is involved. Even if you use a fake gun or a gun with no bullets, you can still face serious charges in New Jersey.
If you travel into New Jersey with a gun, and you do not have a license to carry that gun in New Jersey, you will still face significant penalties including real jail time.
Don’t let ignorance or bad judgment make you a casualty of New Jersey’s harsh gun laws. It’s important that you understand the gravity of the charges facing you. John W. Tumelty is a savvy Atlantic City criminal defense lawyer. He is a former prosecutor, as well, so he knows how to view weapons-related charges from all sides.
John W. Tumelty will help you understand the various defenses that may be appropriate in your particular situation. Contact him today for a free consultation about your charges. He is available day or night by phone and sees clients in three office locations in Atlantic and Cape May counties. He will come to your location, as well.
