Illegal Firearm Purchase Charges in Rhode Island? We're Ready to Defend You.
Being charged with an illegal firearm purchase, commonly known as a straw purchase, is a serious legal matter that demands immediate attention. These charges carry harsh penalties, including significant prison time and fines. If you or a loved one is facing allegations, securing aggressive legal representation is critical.
At Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys, we understand the complexities of firearm laws in Rhode Island and at the federal level. Our attorneys have defended countless individuals accused of weapons violations, and we know how to challenge the prosecution's case effectively. We fight for clients in every gun court in the State of Rhode Island.
What Is a Straw Purchase?
A straw purchase occurs when someone buys a firearm on behalf of another person—usually someone who is legally prohibited from owning a gun. Both state and federal laws strictly regulate firearm purchases, and violations can lead to felony charges.
Key statutes related to straw purchases:
- Rhode Island Law: R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-35 prohibits the purchase of firearms for individuals who cannot legally own them.
- Federal Law: 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(6) makes it a crime to knowingly make false statements when buying a firearm.
Consequences of a Straw Purchase Conviction
If convicted of an illegal firearm purchase, you could face:
✔ Felony charges on your record
✔ Up to 5 years in state prison for each count
✔ Hefty fines that can reach thousands of dollars
✔ A permanent firearm ownership ban
✔ Loss of employment opportunities due to a criminal record
The penalties are severe, and the State aggressively prosecutes these cases. That's why you need a powerful defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Potential Defenses Against Straw Purchase Charges
Every case is unique, but some of the most effective defense strategies include:
🛑 Lack of Intent – If you did not knowingly purchase the firearm for someone else, the prosecution may struggle to prove intent.
🛑 False Accusations – If someone used your identity or falsely accused you, we will expose the weaknesses in their claims.
🛑 Illegal Search & Seizure – If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights, evidence may be thrown out in court.
🛑 Entrapment – If law enforcement induced or pressured you into making the purchase, we will fight to have the case dismissed.
Our legal team will analyze every angle of your case, looking for errors in the investigation and weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence.
Why Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys?
Choosing the right defense team can mean the difference between freedom and a criminal conviction. Here's why clients turn to us when facing gun-related charges in Rhode Island:
✅ Deep knowledge of Rhode Island and federal gun laws
✅ A track record of success in high-stakes firearm cases
✅ Aggressive defense strategies tailored to your situation
✅ A commitment to protecting your rights and your future
We know how to fight these cases and we're ready to fight for you.
Don't Wait—Call for a Free Consultation Today
The prosecution is already working to build a case against you. Take action now to protect your rights and your future. Contact Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys today for a confidential consultation and let us help you through this challenging time.
📞 Call 401-854-7794 Today
💻 Or Fill Out Our Online Contact Form for Immediate Assistance
When your future is on the line, you need a legal team that knows how to win.
