In North Carolina, felony gun possession is a life-altering conviction. Our state’s legal code consists of strict weapon laws and many defendants charged with firearm offenses don’t fully understand their rights—or just how high the stakes are. That’s where the Gross Law Team comes in as your trusted advocate. A felony gun possession conviction can result in years behind bars, steep fines, and the loss of your right to own a firearm permanently. If you’re in this situation, we’re here to ensure you are aware of the costs, your rights, and how to prepare for the road ahead. Let’s dive into the different classifications of Felony Gun Possession, the penalties, and how we can expertly defend you:

When Does Gun Possession Become a Felony?

North Carolina law allows most adults to possess firearms, but not everyone. Gun possession becomes a felony when certain legal restrictions are in play. The most common circumstances leading to felony charges include:

• Possession by a Felon: If you have a prior felony conviction, North Carolina law prohibits you from owning or possessing a firearm—even if the prior felony was non-violent. A conviction for possession as a felon can result in years in prison.
• Possession of a Stolen Firearm: Regardless of whether you stole the gun yourself, simply possessing a stolen firearm is a felony offense.
• Altering or Removing a Serial Number: Defacing a gun’s serial number (or possessing a firearm with an altered number) is a felony under state law.
• Certain Types of Firearms: While most standard firearms are legal in North Carolina, certain weapons—such as sawed-off shotguns and machine guns—can lead to felony charges.

What Are the Penalties for Felony Gun Possession?

The penalties for felony gun possession in North Carolina depend on the specific charge, your criminal history, and other circumstances. However, here’s what you could be facing:

• Possession of a Firearm by a Felon: This is a Class G felony, punishable by 8 to 31 months in prison. If you have multiple prior convictions, your sentence could be even longer. Learn more about the Felony Firearms Act here.
• Possession of a Stolen Firearm: This is a Class H felony, which carries 4 to 25 months in prison.
• Altering a Serial Number: Also a Class H felony, punishable by 4 to 25 months in prison.
• Possession of Prohibited Firearms: Depending on the weapon, this can be charged as a Class I felony, carrying 3 to 12 months in prison.

Life-Altering Consequences: More Than Just Jail Time

A felony conviction doesn’t just mean potential time behind bars. If convicted, you may also face:

• Permanent loss of firearm rights: A felony conviction means you will no longer be legally allowed to own or carry a gun in North Carolina.
• Employment barriers: Many employers hesitate to hire individuals with felony convictions, especially for jobs requiring background checks.
• Housing difficulties: Felony convictions can make it harder to rent or buy a home.
• Loss of voting rights: While felons in North Carolina can regain their voting rights after completing their sentence, there is still a process to go through.

Defending Against Felony Gun Charges

As with all criminal cases, it’s important to remember that a charge does not automatically mean a conviction. The Gross Law Team is here to explore every possible defense, such as:

• Lack of knowledge
• Illegal search and seizure
• Mistaken identity or wrongful accusation
• Weapon not operational

Charged with Felony Gun Possession? Get Legal Help Now.

If you or a loved one is facing felony gun possession charges in North Carolina, you cannot afford to handle this alone. The penalties are life-altering, but a strong legal defense could change the outcome of your case. At the Gross Law Group, we aggressively defend our clients and work to get charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible. Don’t wait—contact us today to protect your tomorrow.