New Jersey gun crime lawyer Adam M. Lustberg (https://www.lustberglaw.com/blog/what-happens-if-you-get-caught-with-a-ghost-gun/) is bringing attention to the increasing legal risks associated with ghost gun possession in the state. In a recent article published by Lustberg Law Offices, LLC, Lustberg outlines the implications of owning or manufacturing untraceable firearms, known as ghost guns, and the aggressive stance New Jersey law enforcement takes in prosecuting such cases.
Ghost guns are privately assembled firearms that lack serial numbers, making them untraceable. These weapons are often created using kits or 3D printing, bypassing background checks and traditional firearm regulations. The article emphasizes that being caught with a ghost gun in New Jersey can lead to felony charges, substantial fines, and long-term imprisonment. For individuals charged with these offenses, consulting a New Jersey gun crime lawyer like Adam M. Lustberg is a critical step toward understanding potential defenses and minimizing penalties.
Adam M. Lustberg highlights that law enforcement in New Jersey has intensified efforts to detect and prosecute ghost gun-related crimes. According to the article, the number of ghost guns recovered in the state surged from 55 in 2019 to approximately one per day in 2023. The majority of these firearms were Polymer80 models, commonly built from kits. As a New Jersey gun crime lawyer, Lustberg notes that these trends reflect heightened scrutiny and a commitment to removing untraceable firearms from the streets.
The article discusses how ghost guns differ from traditional firearms, which are regulated through licensing, serial numbers, and mandatory background checks. In contrast, ghost guns are assembled outside these systems, posing challenges for law enforcement and raising public safety concerns. Adam M. Lustberg explains that New Jersey has some of the most stringent firearm laws in the U.S., making it illegal to possess, manufacture, or distribute ghost guns. Violation of these laws carries severe consequences.
New Jersey Senate Bill No. 2846, passed in 2022, plays a significant role in strengthening the legal framework around ghost guns. This legislation classifies certain actions related to ghost guns as second- or third-degree crimes, punishable by up to ten years in prison and fines reaching $150,000. As a New Jersey gun crime lawyer, Adam M. Lustberg stresses that individuals must be aware of these changes and the elevated risks they face if found in violation of the law.
Lustberg also draws attention to how prior criminal records can affect sentencing. The article explains that judges in New Jersey weigh aggravating and mitigating factors, with prior convictions often resulting in harsher penalties. Adam M. Lustberg states, “A substantial or violent criminal history may result in longer imprisonment terms or elevated fines,” underscoring the importance of mounting a strong legal defense to counterbalance these factors.
When defending clients against ghost gun charges, Adam M. Lustberg considers several legal strategies. These include challenging the legality of search and seizure procedures, questioning whether the item in question meets the legal definition of a ghost gun, and negotiating plea bargains when applicable. The article points out that not all firearm-like items, such as BB guns or antique firearms, meet the state’s legal definition of a ghost gun. These nuances can be pivotal in building a defense.
Beyond legal repercussions, a ghost gun conviction can have far-reaching consequences. Individuals may face difficulties securing employment due to background checks, risk losing professional licenses, and encounter social stigma. Adam M. Lustberg notes that these collateral effects make it even more critical for defendants to obtain knowledgeable representation to help mitigate both immediate and long-term impacts.
Adam M. Lustberg concludes by emphasizing the importance of early legal intervention for anyone facing ghost gun charges. He recommends consulting a New Jersey gun crime lawyer immediately to evaluate the case, explore possible defenses, and work toward a favorable outcome. His firm, Lustberg Law Offices, LLC, offers legal representation focused on protecting clients' rights in the face of strict state and federal firearm laws.
For individuals currently charged or under investigation for ghost gun-related offenses in New Jersey, seeking timely legal guidance could make a significant difference in the outcome of the case. Legal defenses exist, and an experienced attorney like Adam M. Lustberg can help identify the most effective course of action based on the facts of each situation.
About Lustberg Law Offices, LLC
Lustberg Law Offices, LLC is a New Jersey-based criminal defense firm led by Adam M. Lustberg. The firm provides legal representation in a wide range of criminal cases, including firearm-related offenses. Adam M. Lustberg is dedicated to defending clients' rights and helping them navigate the legal system in New Jersey.
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