If I’m a Convicted Felon, What Happens if I’m Charged with Possession of a Gun in St. Paul and Ramsey County?
Being convicted of a felony in St. Paul and throughout Ramsey County can have severe consequences, including incarceration, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of fundamental rights—such as the right to possess a firearm. In Minnesota, nearly all felony convictions result in the denial of gun ownership. If you are found in possession of a firearm or ammunition before your rights have been restored, you could be facing serious penalties. If you are facing “Felon in Possession” charges, contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 512-227-1339.
“These charges can come with presumptive prison commits.”
Consequences of Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Under Minnesota law, if you are a convicted felon and caught with a firearm or ammunition, you could be charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm. This charge carries harsh penalties, including:
A new felony conviction
Up to 15 years in prison
Fines up to $30,000
Even if this is your first violation, Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines presume that you will serve at least 60 months (5 years) in prison. If this is your second offense, the law mandates a minimum 60-month sentence. Given these strict penalties, it is crucial to determine whether you are prohibited from possessing a firearm. This is the so-called “Mandatory Mandatory” law.
If you are facing a Felon in Possession of a Firearm charge, contact Jack Rice Defense for a free, confidential consultation at 651-447-7650.
Lifetime Firearm Ban for Certain Felonies
A felony conviction in Minnesota almost always results in a restriction on gun ownership. However, the duration of this ban depends on the severity of the crime. If you have been convicted of a violent felony, you may permanently lose your Second Amendment right to own or possess a firearm.
Under Minnesota Statute 609.165, the following crimes are classified as violent felonies, leading to a lifetime firearm ban:
Murder: First-degree, Second-degree
Aiding Suicide and Aiding Attempted Suicide
Assault: First-degree, Second-degree, Third-degree, Fourth-degree, Fifth-degree, Domestic Assault
Gang-Related Crimes
Robbery, Kidnapping, and False Imprisonment
Prostitution and Sex Trafficking
Criminal Sexual Conduct: First-degree, Second-degree, Third-degree, Fourth-degree
Child Endangerment and Abuse Crimes
Crimes Committed While Wearing a Bulletproof Vest
Theft of Firearms, Explosives, or Controlled Substances
Arson: First-degree, Second-degree
Burglary: First-degree, Second-degree
Drive-By Shootings and Firearm-Related Offenses
Possession of a Machine Gun or Short-Barreled Shotgun
Stalking, Rioting, and Terroristic Threats
Shooting at a Public Vehicle or Facility
Controlled Substance Offenses
If you are facing a Felon in Possession of a Firearm charge, it is imperative to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney. These charges are taken seriously in Minnesota and could result in significant prison time.
“Because of how seriously the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office takes these kinds of cases, make sure you have an experienced Ramsey County Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist by your side.”
Possession Isn’t Always What It Seems
Possession of a firearm doesn’t always mean it was physically in your hands. Minnesota law recognizes constructive possession, meaning you could still face charges if a firearm is found in a location where you had access or control.
Jack Rice Defense has extensive experience handling gun-related charges, particularly felon in possession of a firearm cases. Jack Rice is a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist, a former prosecutor, a former U.S. Federal Agent, and the Founder of Jack Rice Defense.
For expert legal representation, contact Jack Rice Defense for a free, confidential consultation at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.