NJ Governor Signs In New Gun Control Laws

Last Thursday New Jersey Governor Chris Christie signed ten bills looking to strengthen gun control and upgrade penalties for those who are arrested for unlawful gun possession throughout the state. These gun control measures were introduced in the state senate after the tragic shooting that took place December 14th, 2012 at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. The series of newly signed bills is designed to create a safer and more well monitored system for the purchase and sales of all firearms throughout the state. Along with making the system more safe these bills are also going to make punishment crimes involving guns more harsh. One of the significant bills signed by the governor was the Anti-Gun Trafficking Act of 2013. This act focuses on the illegal transfer and sale of firearms across state lines. Many believe one of the most significant ways to cut down on illegal gun possession is to stop it at its source, which is by way of illegal sales from sources outside of New Jersey. For those who are convicted of transporting guns into New Jersey for illegal purposes under the Anti-Gun Trafficking Act of 2013, the crime is considered one of the second degree, meaning that there is a minimum of five years incarceration, which is not within the discretion of the sentencing judge. For those who presently own an illegal weapon there is a grace period of six months to dispose of the firearms before being convicted or punished. Unlawful possession of a firearm in NJ will have a serious impact on your life and can have significant implications in related matters such as later personal injury or other criminal charges. Given the serious implications of weapons charges it is critical that, if you are charged with illegal gun possession or trafficking in NJ, whether knowingly or unknowingly, you should seek an experienced attorney who can immediately begin preparing your defense. For more information about robbery, gun possession without a permit, possession of weapons for an unlawful purpose, illegal weapons or other serious matters stemming from gun use or possession in NJ visit HeatherDarlingLawyer.com. This blog is for informational purposes only and not intended to replace the advice of an attorney in your matter.