Allan F. Friedman Criminal Lawyer Home
Connecticut Weapons Offenses Lawyer – Firearm & Gun Crime Defense in Stamford and Statewide
Connecticut has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation. If you’ve been charged with a firearm offense, gun crime, or weapons violation in Connecticut, the stakes are extremely high. A single mistake—such as carrying a pistol without a permit, possessing an unregistered assault weapon, or transporting a firearm improperly—can lead to mandatory prison time, permanent loss of your gun rights, and a lifelong criminal record.
I’m Allan F. Friedman, a Connecticut criminal defense lawyer based in Stamford with over 30 years of experience fighting for clients charged with weapons and firearms offenses statewide. I know how aggressively these cases are prosecuted—and I know how to fight back. Whether your case stems from a misunderstanding, a first-time mistake, or serious felony allegations, I will provide the personal attention, strategic defense, and relentless advocacy needed to protect your future.
Common Firearm and Weapons Charges in ConnecticutConnecticut law regulates nearly every aspect of firearm ownership, carrying, and use. Common weapons charges I defend include:
- Carrying a Pistol Without a Permit (C.G.S. § 29-35): Felony offense punishable by 1–5 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of one year unless mitigating factors exist.
- Weapons in a Motor Vehicle (C.G.S. § 29-38): Felony charge for possessing a firearm in a vehicle without a valid Connecticut permit.
- Criminal Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition (C.G.S. § 53a-217): Class C felony with up to 10 years in prison for those prohibited from possessing firearms.
- Assault Weapons Ban (C.G.S. § 53-202a): Unregistered possession is a Class D felony with a one-year mandatory minimum; illegal transfer or sale is a Class C felony with a two-year mandatory minimum.
- High-Capacity Magazine Ban: Possession of magazines holding more than 10 rounds without proper registration can lead to felony charges.
- Use of a Firearm During a Felony (C.G.S. § 53-202k): Adds a mandatory five years to any sentence for the underlying felony.
These charges can have life-changing consequences, which is why hiring an experienced Connecticut gun crimes attorney immediately is critical.
The Impact of Sandy Hook and Connecticut’s Strict Gun LawsFollowing the 2012 Sandy Hook tragedy, Connecticut enacted some of the toughest gun control measures in the country, including:
- An expanded assault weapons ban with mandatory registration.
- A high-capacity magazine ban (more than 10 rounds).
- Stricter handgun and long gun permit requirements.
Violations of these laws frequently involve mandatory minimum prison terms, making early, aggressive defense essential to achieving a favorable outcome.
Defending Connecticut Gun Charges – How I Fight for YouEvery weapons case is unique. My defense strategies focus on uncovering weaknesses in the state’s case and leveraging them in your favor:
- Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights, I will move to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully.
- Lack of Knowledge or Possession: I challenge whether you actually knew about or had control over the firearm, magazine, or ammunition.
- Statutory Exemptions: Certain individuals (such as law enforcement officers) or pre-ban registered items are exempt under Connecticut law.
- Diversionary Programs: First-time offenders may qualify for Accelerated Rehabilitation (AR), which can lead to dismissal and erasure of charges.
Example: I recently defended a Stamford client charged under C.G.S. § 53a-217 after police found a handgun in a shared vehicle. By proving my client had no knowledge of the weapon and challenging the legality of the stop, I secured a full dismissal of the charges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut Weapons ChargesDo I need a Connecticut permit if I have a gun license from another state?
Yes. Connecticut does not recognize out-of-state permits. Carrying here without a Connecticut permit is a felony.
What happens if I have a firearm in my car without a permit?
Possession of a firearm in a vehicle without a valid permit is a Class D felony under C.G.S. § 29-38, and the weapon will be seized.
Are there exceptions to the assault weapons ban?
Yes. Firearms lawfully owned and registered before the 2013 ban may still be legal, and law enforcement officers performing official duties are exempt.
What is the penalty for possessing an assault weapon?
Unregistered possession carries a mandatory minimum of one year in prison. Illegal transfer or sale is a Class C felony with a two-year mandatory minimum.
What counts as a “high-capacity magazine” in Connecticut?
Any magazine capable of holding more than 10 rounds. Unregistered possession is a felony.
Can I lose my gun rights permanently for a conviction?
Yes. Many firearm convictions result in lifetime bans under both state and federal law.
What if police searched my home or car without a warrant?
I can challenge the search. If the evidence is suppressed, the prosecution’s case often collapses.
Is there a way to avoid a conviction on a weapons charge?
Possibly. Through diversionary programs, plea negotiations, or constitutional challenges, we may secure dismissal or reduction of charges.
What should I do if police contact me about a gun investigation?
Do not answer questions. Politely decline and contact a qualified Connecticut firearms defense attorney immediately.
Why hire Allan F. Friedman for my weapons case?
Because I have over three decades of courtroom experience, an in-depth understanding of Connecticut firearms law, and a proven record of achieving favorable results in complex gun cases.
I represent clients throughout Fairfield County—including Stamford, Greenwich, Darien, Fairfield, Bridgeport, and surrounding towns—as well as in courts across Connecticut.
Speak with a Connecticut Weapons Offenses Lawyer TodayA weapons charge can alter your life in an instant—but the right defense can change the outcome.
Call me, Allan F. Friedman, Criminal Lawyer, at (203) 357-5555 or fill out my confidential contact form for immediate help. I’m available 24/7 to defend your rights and fight for the best possible result.
