False Representation in Firearms Applications

With shootings and violence happening at a rampant pace across the United States, the firearms debate has elevated to new levels.

Many people on the right are defenders of the Second Amendment and don’t want the government to have much of a say on who can purchase firearms. People on the left want gun restrictions, more background checks and other limitations placed on gun ownership.

Somewhere in the middle are the states, all of whom have gun laws in the books and prosecutors and judges abide by those laws.

One of the steadfast requirements to gun ownership is an application, and/or a background check. Most people provide accurate information when purchasing a gun. They do everything by the book and are legal gun owners in the eyes of the state.

But, as in everything else, there is the criminal element, which has no intention of ever playing by the rules.

If you are accused of providing false information in a firearms application, you need to speak to a criminal defense lawyer who understands New Hampshire’s gun laws. Otherwise you could lose your right to purchase and own firearms.

This is a serious matter and you’ll need to talk to your attorney about your decision to give false information to authorities.

At The Anzalone Law Firm in Nashua, New Hampshire, we will work with you to try to get the best possible outcome when your case goes before a judge. It’s our goal to help you get your life back on track.

It’s a good idea for any gun owner, or would-be gun owner, to look at and understand the state’s gun laws. It can be found in the Public Safety and Welfare section of the state’s statutes, RSA 159. This section deals with gun ownership and contains every law relevant to a New Hampshire resident who owns a gun.

Here’s what the state statutes say about providing false information in a firearms application:

159:11 False Information. – Any person who, in purchasing or otherwise securing delivery of a pistol, revolver, or other firearm, gives false information or offers false evidence of his identity, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor for the first offense, and be guilty of a class B felony for any subsequent offense.

As your attorney, Michael Anzalone will tell you that it’s always advisable to follow state law and to never lie on any form or to anyone in authority.

But if you provided false information while trying to obtain a firearm, you will face a misdemeanor charge if it’s the first time and a felony charge if you do this again.

An arrest can wreck your life. It can bring embarrassment to you and your family. A felony charge or conviction could ruin you financially. You may lose your job and could possibly face jail time. This could also affect future employment opportunities.

So, if you’ve been arrested for providing false information on an application for a firearm, you need to contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

Fill out our online for a free consultation with Michael Azalone.