Federal Guns And Weapons Charges In Kentucky
Federal gun and weapons violations carry severe penalties that can permanently alter your life, career and family relationships. Unlike state charges, federal firearms cases involve extensive resources from agencies like the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The federal court system operates under different rules and procedures that can be overwhelming without proper legal guidance.
Attorney Travis Rossman of Rossman Law, PLLC, understands the serious nature of federal gun charges in Kentucky. He has extensive experience representing clients in federal courts in London, Lexington and throughout Eastern Kentucky from his Barbourville office. He provides aggressive representation focused on protecting your rights, freedom and future when facing these serious allegations.
Federal Vs. State Gun Charges
The federal government and the commonwealth of Kentucky maintain separate systems of laws regarding firearms. While Kentucky has relatively permissive gun laws, federal regulations are often more restrictive and carry harsher penalties. Cases typically move to federal jurisdiction when they involve interstate commerce, occur on federal property or include violations that trigger mandatory minimum sentences.
Federal prosecutors prioritize gun cases involving prior felony convictions, domestic violence histories, drug trafficking connections and firearms crossing state lines. Attorney Rossman has defended numerous clients against these charges and understands how federal prosecutors build their cases, enabling him to develop effective defense strategies.
Common Federal Gun Charges In Kentucky
Federal firearms offenses encompass numerous violations. Understanding these charges is essential for developing an effective defense strategy.
Frequently prosecuted federal gun charges include:
- Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (felons, domestic violence offenders)
- Unlawful possession of unregistered firearms or destructive devices
- Possession of firearms with obliterated serial numbers
- Use of firearms in drug trafficking or violent crimes
- Interstate trafficking of firearms
- Straw purchasing (buying firearms for someone else)
Penalties for these offenses can include five to 30 years in federal prison, substantial fines and lifelong consequences that extend beyond incarceration.
Defenses Against Federal Gun Charges
Effective defense against federal gun charges requires thorough investigation, constitutional analysis and strategic planning. As your lawyer, Attorney Rossman examines every aspect of the case, from the initial investigation to the arrest and charging decisions. His approach may include challenging the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the weapon, addressing issues of possession and ownership or questioning the interstate commerce connection necessary for federal jurisdiction.
Having completed multiple jury trials in federal court and presented oral arguments before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit, Attorney Rossman brings valuable experience to your defense. Federal gun prosecutions move quickly, with strict deadlines and complex procedural requirements that differ significantly from state courts.
Contact Attorney Travis Rossman
If you face federal gun or weapons charges in Kentucky, contact Attorney Travis Rossman immediately at 606-232-8521 or through the online form to schedule a confidential consultation.