Bakersfield Federal Weapon Trafficking Lawyer

Expert Bakersfield Federal Weapon Trafficking Attorney

Federal weapon trafficking charges have serious consequences that could impact your liberty, your finances, and your future. Because federal firearms cases involve intricate investigations and legal requirements, securing legal representation early is crucial in protecting your rights. A Bakersfield federal weapon trafficking lawyer from The Law Office of Victor Nasser can help you understand your charges and guide you through the federal criminal justice system.

Why Choose The Law Office of Victor Nasser

The Law Office of Victor Nasser represents criminal defendants accused of crimes in both state and federal court systems throughout California. Before starting his own law firm, Mr. Victor Nasser was a Deputy Public Defender in Fresno County, where he handled a wide range of criminal cases. In addition to being a member of the State Bar of California and the State Bar of Arizona, he is fluent in Spanish and Arabic.

Our legal team is prepared to use our extensive criminal defense knowledge to protect your rights and help you navigate your federal criminal case.

What Is Federal Weapon Trafficking?

According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), law enforcement agencies have recorded approximately 230,000 trafficked firearms in 7,779 firearm trafficking investigations initiated from 2017 to 2021.

Federal weapon trafficking typically refers to the knowing and illegal sale, transfer, transportation, or distribution of firearms across state lines. In 2022, Congress added 18 U.S.C. § 933, which criminalizes the knowing shipment, transportation, transfer, or receipt of a firearm with knowledge that it will be used to commit specific federal offenses.

Investigators can analyze firearm purchase records, communications, and interstate transactions when they are relevant to the investigation. The exact charges a defendant receives depend on the circumstances of the crime and relevant federal statutes.

Potential Penalties for Federal Weapon Trafficking

Federal trafficking penalties vary based on the offense with which a defendant is charged under federal law. For instance, 18 U.S.C. § 924 sets forth penalties for various federal firearms offenses, including offenses arising from unlawful transfers, possession, and trafficking-related activities. The potential penalties for a conviction may include:

• Prison time
• Fines
• Forfeiture of firearms
• Future firearms possession restrictions
• Supervised release

Since there are several federal firearms statutes that may apply to the same investigation, prosecutors consider the alleged conduct, the defendant’s criminal history, and the circumstances of the offense when deciding which charges to file.

Possible Defense Strategies for a Federal Weapon Trafficking Case

The strongest defense to a federal firearms case will vary from case to case, as the defenses available will depend on the particular allegations and evidence that may be available. For example, the defense could challenge whether the prosecution can prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, the credibility of a witness, or whether the government’s evidence was obtained in a manner that violates the United States Constitution.

When you hire a federal weapon trafficking lawyer from The Law Office of Victor Nasser, they can analyze your case to determine which defense is strongest for your case.

Why You Should Hire a Federal Weapon Trafficking Lawyer Early

Federal criminal investigations often begin long before any formal charges are filed. During the investigation stage, the government is working to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and serve search warrants. You have important constitutional rights at this stage, including the Sixth Amendment right to counsel and the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination.

Federal firearm trafficking charges also involve different laws, processes, and penalties than state criminal matters. Contacting an attorney early in the process can help you better protect your rights throughout a federal criminal investigation. They can assist you in understanding the allegations against you and whether your rights were violated, assess the evidence collected by the prosecution, and build a powerful defense tailored to your case’s circumstances.

FAQs

When Does a Firearm Case Become a Federal Matter?

A firearm case may become a federal matter if the alleged conduct violates federal law or falls within federal jurisdiction. Federal authorities may investigate cases involving interstate firearm transfers, suspected trafficking activity, or other offenses governed by federal firearms laws. These investigations often involve the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

What Evidence May Be Used in a Federal Weapon Trafficking Case?

Federal prosecutors may rely on many types of evidence to support weapon trafficking charges. Depending on the case, this evidence may include surveillance footage, text messages, emails, shipping and financial records, firearm purchase records, witness testimony, or forensic evidence linking a firearm to a person. Investigators may also use evidence obtained through search warrants, electronic devices, or recorded communications.

How Common Are Federal Firearm Trafficking Investigations?

Federal firearm trafficking investigations are commonly conducted nationwide. The U.S. Department of Justice reported that the ATF reviewed 9,708 completed firearm trafficking investigations that were opened from 2017 through 2021 as part of the National Firearms Commerce and Trafficking Assessment. The assessment was the first major review of firearm trafficking investigations in more than two decades.

What Happens If You Are Convicted of Federal Weapon Trafficking Charges?

A federal weapon trafficking conviction can have significant legal and personal consequences. Depending on the severity of the charges at hand, consequences can include prison time, hefty fines, loss of your right to legally possess firearms, and more. Prison sentences for crimes of this nature can be long-term, making it important that defendants seek legal representation early on.

Contact a Bakersfield Federal Weapon Trafficking Lawyer

The Law Office of Victor Nasser defends individuals accused of federal criminal activity in Bakersfield and throughout the surrounding communities. If you are accused of trafficking weapons or believe you are the target of a federal investigation, our firm can analyze the facts of your case, answer any questions you may have, and help you understand your legal options under federal law.

Do not wait to reach out to our firm to schedule a consultation. Our team stands ready to help Bakersfield residents combat complex criminal charges.