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What You Need to Know About Illegal Guns in Indiana

November 3, 2023

Indiana has some of the most permissive gun laws in the country, but that doesn't mean you can possess any firearm without consequences. If you have an illegal gun, you may face serious criminal charges and penalties. Understanding what constitutes an illegal gun, and the role of an attorney in these cases, is important. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the penalties for having an illegal gun in Indiana, what is considered an illegal gun, and how a lawyer can help.

What is an Illegal Gun? 

Generally speaking, any firearm that is not registered, stolen, modified without proper authorization, or possessed by a convicted felon is considered an illegal gun. Additionally, possessing a gun in certain locations, such as schools, government buildings, and airports, can result in criminal charges. Firearms that fall under the National Firearms Act (NFA) classification, including machine guns, suppressors, short-barreled shotguns, and rifles, can also be illegal to possess without proper registration and licensing.

Penalties for Illegal Gun Possession

Indiana has strict penalties for illegal gun possession. Convictions for gun crimes can result in heavy fines, probation, and imprisonment. For instance, possession of an illegal handgun carries a minimum sentence of two years, with a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The penalties for other firearm-related offenses, such as possession of a sawed-off shotgun, can be even more severe.

How Can an Attorney Help?

If you're facing weapon charges in Indiana, a lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. An experienced attorney will carefully review the prosecutor's case and analyze the evidence, witness testimony, and police procedures to build a strong defense. Additionally, a lawyer can help you negotiate a plea bargain or explore alternatives to a criminal trial, such as diversion or drug court.


At The Law Office of Ross G. Thomas, we provide legal assistance to individuals facing weapon charges in Indiana. By working with us, you can benefit from our knowledge, experience, and expertise in these types of cases. We understand that each case is unique, and we will work tirelessly to provide personalized and effective representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome.


In conclusion, possessing an illegal gun in Indiana can carry serious consequences. It's important to understand what constitutes an illegal gun, the penalties for possession, and how a lawyer can defend you in these cases. If you're facing weapon charges, don't wait to get legal help. Contact The Law Office of Ross G. Thomas today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. We're here to help.

A row of books are lined up on a shelf.
November 30, 2024
For state and federal felony criminal defense in the state of Indiana, call The Law Office of Ross G. Thomas in Indianapolis and schedule a free consultation.
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October 30, 2024
For state and federal felony criminal defense in the state of Indiana, call The Law Office of Ross G. Thomas in Indianapolis and schedule a free consultation.
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August 30, 2024
For state and federal felony criminal defense in the state of Indiana, call The Law Office of Ross G. Thomas in Indianapolis and schedule a free consultation.
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