MD Ghost Gun Charges: FrizWoods' Legal Defense
If you are facing ghost gun charges in Maryland, you need to know how the law treats unserialized firearms and what defenses apply. At Frizwoods, we defend Polymer80 and homemade firearm cases across the state.
Luke Woods
Firearm defense across wear/carry/transport and felony-in-possession cases.
- Over 20 years of criminal defense experience, including extensive work in gun-related offenses.
- Successfully defended clients against gun possession by prohibited individuals, concealed carry violations, and firearm-related felonies.
- Extensive suppression practice on stop-and-frisk and probable cause.
Max Frizalone
Trial-first strategy for handgun and weapons offenses with dismissals and acquittals.
- Former prosecutor in Prince George's County, bringing insider knowledge to gun crime defense.
- Experienced in defending against charges of illegal firearm possession, transportation violations, and use of a firearm in a violent crime.
- Skilled in challenging search and seizure violations, improper gun evidence collection, and flawed ballistic reports.
What are Ghost Guns?
Ghost guns are firearms that lack commercial serial numbers, making them difficult to trace. Maryland's laws on these weapons changed recently, so the rules you assume may be out of date. Most ghost guns involve portions of completed firearms purchased online, commonly Polymer 80 kits assembled by private citizens.
Maryland's Legal Stance on Ghost Guns
Maryland law mandates that all firearms, including ghost guns, must be imprinted with a serial number by a federally licensed entity. The law, detailed in Section 5-703, outlines specific guidelines for the sale, transfer, and possession of ghost guns.
Legal Implications of Ghost Gun Charges
Violating Maryland's ghost gun laws can result in significant legal consequences, including misdemeanors, potential imprisonment, and hefty fines.
Purchasing, Selling, or Transfering a Ghost Gun PS 5-703(a)
Under Maryland law, it's illegal for anyone to purchase, receive, sell, offer to sell, or transfer an unfinished frame or receiver unless it has a federally mandated serial number. A violation of subsection (a) is classified as a misdemeanor. The penalties for this offense can be severe, including imprisonment for not more than 5 years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.
Possession of a Firearm Without A Serial Number PS5-703(b)
Maryland law prohibits the possession of firearms without serial numbers, with limited exceptions (e.g., inheritance, self-manufacture without prefabricated parts). A violation of this law constitutes a misdemeanor. The penalties include imprisonment not exceeding 2 years, a fine not exceeding $10,000, or both.
Key Legal Provisions
- Sale or Transfer Restrictions: Selling or transferring an unfinished frame or receiver without a federally mandated serial number is illegal.
- Possession Guidelines: Possessing a firearm without a serial number, with certain exceptions, is prohibited.
- Penalties: Violations can lead to imprisonment and fines, with each violation treated as a separate crime.
Why You Need an Expert Attorney
Laws That Keep Changing
Maryland ghost gun law has shifted in the past few years. Our attorneys at Frizwoods stay current on it and know how to defend these cases.
Building a Strong Defense
A gun conviction can cost you your freedom and your firearm rights. We build a defense around the facts of your case and protect your rights at every step. Want to know how to beat a gun case? Read our blog for specific defenses in gun cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What constitutes a ghost gun under Maryland law?
A: Any firearm without a commercial serial number, including those made from unfinished frames or receivers.
Q: Can I face charges for possessing a ghost gun in Maryland?
A: Yes, if the gun does not comply with the new serial number requirements.
Q: How can Frizwoods help me if I'm charged with a ghost gun violation?
A: Our legal experts can provide personalized defense strategies, helping to mitigate charges or pursue case dismissals.
Start Your Defense
At Frizwoods, we represent you and fight for you. If you're facing ghost gun charges in Maryland, contact us today for a consultation and let us start your defense. Read our client reviews to see how we've helped others in similar situations.