Criminal Defense for Manhattan Weapon Charges with Proven Courtroom Results

Getting arrested for a weapon charge in Manhattan can risk your liberty, your job, and your future all at once. Whether you were in possession of a gun, a knife, or some other item prohibited under New York Penal Law § 265.01, the consequences are severe. Manhattan prosecutors vigorously prosecute weapons and gun possession crimes with no tolerance, and even first-time offenders are often urged to plead to mandatory prison terms.

At Petrus Law, we defend clients charged with criminal possession of a weapon and other gun offenses in Manhattan’s most aggressive courthouses, including 100 Centre Street and the Midtown Community Court. Our team moves with urgency, contests illegitimate searches, and fights tirelessly to protect your rights from initial appearance through trial.

Manhattan authorities are especially tough on gun-related arrests near busy areas like the subway system, Times Square, and government buildings. That is why everything about your case matters, starting now.

Don’t wait to act. Call Petrus Law at (646) 733-4711 to obtain prompt help on your Manhattan weapon charge. For an overview of New York City’s management of firearm licensing and possession laws, see the NYPD Legal Bureau Firearms Overview.

Protecting Gun Rights After a Manhattan Weapon Charge Arrest

A Manhattan weapon charge can permanently affect your right to own, carry, or purchase a firearm. In New York, prosecutors pursue weapons possession cases with aggressive intent, especially when they involve unlicensed handguns, concealed firearms, or arrests near transportation hubs. But what many defendants don’t realize is that a single charge can also trigger long-term federal firearm prohibitions, even without a felony conviction.

At Petrus Law, we take these cases seriously from the moment of arrest. Our attorneys challenge firearm surrender orders, push back on unconstitutional searches, and work to protect your Second Amendment rights under both state and federal law. For a detailed overview of New York’s firearm regulations and how they intersect with federal restrictions, visit the Giffords Law Center resource on New York gun laws.

How Federal Firearm Laws Respond to a Manhattan Gun Possession Conviction

Federal law responds aggressively to state-level convictions involving weapons, even when no violence occurred. Under 18 U.S. Code § 922(g), individuals convicted of certain felonies or misdemeanor domestic offenses lose the right to possess firearms under the Gun Control Act. This federal restriction applies regardless of whether the weapon was loaded, whether it was legally owned out of state, or whether the incident involved actual use.

New York’s enforcement of Penal Law § 265.01 regularly results in felony charges for basic possession. That means a conviction in Manhattan Criminal Court could strip you of your gun rights nationwide.

Judges in Manhattan Often Issue Immediate Firearm Surrender Orders

In many Manhattan courts, judges impose firearm surrender orders as soon as arraignment takes place. This typically happens before any formal conviction and can apply even if the weapon was not recovered at the time of the arrest. Judges issue these orders out of an abundance of caution, often referencing the New York City administrative code or specific risk-related statutes.

If you receive such an order, failure to surrender your firearms can result in additional criminal charges. Our defense team responds immediately to challenge these orders. We often file motions to amend or rescind based on the lack of necessity or the unconstitutional burden placed on the defendant. To better understand local firearm policy and enforcement, review the NYPD Firearms Licensing Division.

A Conviction for Weapon Possession in NYC May Trigger a Lifetime Federal Ban

Even misdemeanor convictions related to weapon possession in New York may result in a permanent federal firearm ban. Under the Lautenberg Amendment, any conviction involving domestic violence and a firearm, no matter how minor, is grounds for automatic prohibition under federal law. That includes cases where the arrest involved a pocketknife, a replica gun, or a disassembled firearm.

When negotiating with prosecutors, we carefully assess the collateral impact of any proposed plea. Even a conditional discharge can carry hidden consequences if not worded correctly in the record. For more insight into the Lautenberg Amendment and how federal law interprets state-level convictions, visit the National Criminal Justice Reference Service’s overview of firearm restrictions.

How We Defend Gun Rights in Manhattan Weapon Charge Cases

The most effective way to protect your Second Amendment rights is to prevent a conviction in the first place. Prosecutors in Manhattan often move quickly, pushing for felony pleas or offering conditional deals that still result in disqualifications under federal law. These tactics leave many defendants unaware that they are trading temporary relief for permanent loss of rights.

At Petrus Law, we intervene early and challenge everything, from the constitutionality of the stop and search to the legality of firearm seizure. We file pretrial motions under CPL § 710.20 to suppress evidence and seek full dismissals when appropriate. For an overview of suppression motions in New York, visit the New York State Unified Court System’s criminal procedures guide.

NYC Firearm Ownership Rules Leave No Room for Error

Owning a firearm in Manhattan without strict compliance with New York City regulations is grounds for arrest. The city does not recognize out-of-state concealed carry permits, and legal gun owners from other states are often surprised to learn that transport laws in New York differ dramatically. A properly stored weapon in New Jersey may still result in a felony charge once it crosses into Manhattan.

Understanding how city ordinances, state laws, and federal statutes interact is essential. For those unfamiliar with NYC firearm transport and licensing protocols, the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association provides essential resources for lawful ownership and updates on changing regulations.

Post-Conviction Gun Rights Restoration Is Difficult but Not Impossible

In New York, criminal convictions remain visible unless sealed under CPL § 160.59. While sealing may help with job applications or housing, it does not automatically restore your right to purchase or possess firearms under federal law. That process requires both strategic legal planning and, in some cases, a pardon or federal relief application.

We help clients explore post-conviction remedies, including motions to vacate under CPL § 440.10 when improper legal representation or due process violations occurred. For more information on record sealing and eligibility, consult the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Sealing FAQs.

Your Defense Strategy Should Always Account for Federal Consequences

Every plea bargain, sentencing condition, or probation term can have a downstream impact on your rights. Many defendants agree to reduced charges thinking the case is over, only to discover months later they are barred from legally owning a firearm nationwide. These mistakes are hard to undo and can only be prevented through careful case management from day one.

At Petrus Law, we work to secure outcomes that protect both your immediate legal position and your long-term rights. Whether the goal is to keep you out of jail, preserve your license, or protect your constitutional rights, we treat each case with urgency and precision. For a national perspective on how sentencing outcomes affect civil liberties, visit the Sentencing Project’s legal resource archive.

Weapon Possession Charges in Manhattan Subways Schools and Airports

Getting arrested for carrying a weapon in a high-security location in Manhattan can immediately escalate a standard charge into a serious felony. New York law imposes enhanced penalties for weapon possession in transit hubs, educational institutions, and airport facilities. These areas are protected by aggressive enforcement policies, and prosecutors rarely offer leniency.

At Petrus Law, we represent clients charged with weapon offenses that arise in New York City subways, public and private schools, and airport terminals such as those near LaGuardia or JFK. These cases often involve zero-tolerance policies and added exposure to federal penalties. That is why our defense begins with fast intervention and a deep understanding of both local law and transportation security enforcement. To learn how federal regulations intersect with New York charges, visit the Transportation Security Administration’s prohibited items guide.

Weapon Possession Arrests in Manhattan Subway Stations

Police presence in the subway system is heavy, particularly at stations like 34th Street–Penn Station, Times Square/42nd Street, and Grand Central. Officers from the NYPD and MTA conduct regular bag checks, surveillance monitoring, and platform sweeps. Carrying a weapon in any of these areas, even unintentionally, often results in immediate arrest.

Because subway systems are considered sensitive infrastructure under New York Penal Law § 265, prosecutors may file additional charges or push for maximum sentencing. Our legal team knows how to challenge the probable cause of stops, the legality of searches, and the chain of evidence collected by transit officers. For more information on NYC transit policing policy, visit the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s public safety resource.

How a Manhattan Subway Stop Turns into a Felony Charge

Many people arrested in the subway system did not intend to violate the law. Some are traveling with items in a backpack from another state where the item is legal. Others are unaware that NYC has stricter rules that override federal transport laws. Regardless of intent, prosecutors can pursue criminal possession charges that carry mandatory jail time.

We aggressively challenge these types of arrests by examining police reports, body cam footage, and witness statements. We also explore possible defenses under federal preemption and lack of criminal intent.

Enhanced Penalties for Weapon Possession on School Grounds

New York imposes harsh penalties for possession of weapons on or near school property. This includes K–12 campuses, colleges, and private institutions in Manhattan. Arrests are common near school zones such as those in the Upper East Side, Harlem, and Lower Manhattan. Even a legal item can be considered unlawful if found within 1,000 feet of a designated school zone.

Prosecutors in these cases typically push for felony-level charges under NY Penal Law § 265.01-a. These cases are complicated, and without strong representation, you may face a permanent criminal record. For a breakdown of how school zone laws increase penalties, visit the New York State Education Department’s Office of School Safety.

Zero Tolerance Policies in Manhattan School Cases

School-related arrests involve additional pressure from school administrators, local precincts, and community safety boards. A simple misunderstanding between students or faculty can quickly result in criminal charges. New York law does not require prosecutors to prove intent to use the weapon, only possession in a restricted location.

Our team works quickly to get ahead of the case, engaging with school legal representatives, administrators, and the District Attorney’s office before charges spiral. We frequently secure dismissals or reductions for students and faculty with no prior criminal history.

Facing Weapon Charges at Manhattan Airports or Port Terminals

Manhattan’s proximity to LaGuardia Airport, JFK, and Port Authority terminals increases the risk of weapon-related arrests for both residents and visitors. Many travelers are detained at checkpoints after unknowingly carrying a restricted item in luggage or carry-ons. These charges often involve both state and federal scrutiny.

Airports fall under jurisdiction of the Port Authority Police Department and TSA, meaning you could face concurrent charges. In many cases, items confiscated by TSA are reported to NYPD or state officials, resulting in criminal complaints filed at 100 Centre Street. For a detailed review of airport-specific restrictions, visit the Port Authority’s airport security enforcement information.

Why Airport Weapon Charges Carry Federal Implications

Unlike arrests elsewhere in Manhattan, airport-related cases often trigger investigations under 21 U.S.C. Chapter 13 Part D or Controlled Substance Schedule I–V charges when items are found in conjunction with controlled materials. Even if no controlled substance is involved, weapons alone are sufficient to initiate federal review if found during TSA security screenings.

Our defense includes a full review of search procedures, administrative handling, and how evidence was documented and transferred between agencies. We also coordinate defense with knowledge of 21 U.S. Code § 812 classifications when necessary. For a full legal definition of federal controlled substance codes, refer to the Legal Information Institute Controlled Substances List.

Defending Against Allegations of Intent to Use a Weapon Unlawfully in Manhattan

Facing a Manhattan weapon charge for possession with intent to use unlawfully brings a different level of legal risk. Under New York Penal Law § 265.01, you can be charged not just for possessing a weapon but also for the perceived intent to use it against another person. Prosecutors often build this charge without direct evidence, relying instead on assumptions tied to location, behavior, or surrounding circumstances.

At Petrus Law, we do not allow speculation to drive a case. We push back on every detail, challenging the basis of the arrest, the officer’s assumptions, and how the prosecution frames your conduct. Our legal team has successfully defended clients against these claims in high-stakes cases across Manhattan Criminal Court. For a detailed look at how criminal intent is treated in court, review the Legal Information Institute’s intent in criminal law resource.

How Manhattan Prosecutors Build an Intent to Use Case

In many Manhattan arrests, officers claim that the defendant intended to use the weapon unlawfully based on where it was found or how it was carried. A pocketknife in a bag, a utility tool in a glove compartment, or a lawful item near a dispute can all be mischaracterized as evidence of unlawful intent. These details are often exaggerated or misinterpreted in fast-paced police encounters.

We challenge these narratives at every opportunity. Our firm demands video, body cam footage, and witness accounts to reveal the full picture. We also file motions to suppress statements made without proper Miranda warnings. This approach allows us to isolate weak points in the prosecution’s argument before trial. For an overview of how prosecutors interpret possession and intent together, visit the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers resource center.

Courts Often Rely on Context Instead of Direct Evidence

One of the most concerning aspects of intent-based charges is that they do not require prosecutors to prove a plan or motive. They only need to suggest that the weapon was possessed with the possibility of harm. This can be based on an argument, a public setting, or previous unrelated behavior. Without proper legal pushback, courts often accept this logic at face value.

At Petrus Law, we force the court to evaluate context in a way that benefits our clients. We present alternate explanations and supply evidence that supports lawful purpose or lack of knowledge. These strategies have helped us achieve case dismissals and significant charge reductions throughout Manhattan.

Intent Accusations Often Rely on Unlawful Searches

In many Manhattan weapon cases, the accusation of intent to use unlawfully stems from a search that violated your rights. Whether it was an unjustified traffic stop near Harlem or an unlawful pat-down at Washington Square Park, these encounters often lack proper legal foundation. Without reasonable suspicion or a valid warrant, any evidence obtained during a stop should not be used in court.

Our team routinely files suppression motions under New York’s Criminal Procedure Law § 710.20 to exclude illegally obtained items from trial. This can remove the prosecution’s key piece of evidence and force the case into a dismissal. For additional insight on New York search and seizure law, explore the New York State Defenders Association’s constitutional rights guide.

Body Cam Footage Can Disprove Accusations of Intent

Many arrests made in Manhattan now involve body-worn cameras, especially in interactions with the NYPD. We obtain this footage quickly to examine the officer’s actions, tone, and decision-making. Often, video recordings directly contradict the claims made in arrest reports or during arraignment.

We use body cam evidence to show lack of aggression, absence of threats, and peaceful conduct. When the footage tells a different story than the prosecution, we use it to shift the narrative and position the case for dismissal.

Mental Health and Intent to Use Claims in Manhattan Courts

Some intent to use weapon charges are filed during mental health crises or emotionally charged incidents. Police officers responding to these situations may escalate the interaction and wrongly conclude that the individual intended to use a weapon. The result is a serious felony charge that could have been avoided with proper de-escalation.

We advocate for a treatment-based response in cases involving mental health. Our firm has successfully diverted clients into programs or secured conditional dismissals by proving that no true threat existed. For more information on how mental health intersects with criminal court proceedings, visit the New York State Office of Mental Health’s criminal justice page.

Pretrial Diversion May Offer a Path Forward in Low-Level Intent Cases

When circumstances support it, we advocate for pretrial diversion as an alternative to prosecution. In some Manhattan courts, including Midtown Community Court and the Manhattan Veterans Treatment Court, eligible defendants may qualify for counseling or community service in lieu of jail. These options protect your record and eliminate the risk of long-term consequences.

We review eligibility and prepare compelling submissions that emphasize your lack of criminal intent and clean background. To learn more about alternative courts and diversion opportunities in NYC, review the Center for Court Innovation’s community justice initiatives.

Arrested with a Firearm in Manhattan as an Out of State Visitor

Many visitors to Manhattan legally own and carry firearms in their home state. Unfortunately, that same legal possession often leads to an arrest the moment they enter New York City. The city enforces some of the most restrictive gun laws in the country, and it does not recognize concealed carry permits from any other state. That means tourists, truck drivers, professionals, and lawful travelers can face felony charges simply for unknowingly violating local statutes.

At Petrus Law, we defend non-New York residents who are facing Manhattan weapon charges after being arrested with a firearm. These cases often involve confusion, missed transport rules, or mistaken assumptions about reciprocity. We move quickly to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your record. For a breakdown of how states differ in handgun permit recognition, visit the National Conference of State Legislatures handgun reciprocity map.

Why Firearm Permits from Other States Are Not Valid in Manhattan

New York does not participate in any reciprocity agreements for handgun permits. That means even if you have a valid license in Pennsylvania, Florida, or Texas, it holds no legal weight once you cross into Manhattan. Travelers are often shocked to learn that a secured firearm in their luggage or glovebox can result in a felony arrest under New York Penal Law § 265.03.

Local police and prosecutors do not show leniency in these situations. Manhattan courts frequently pursue full charges even when the defendant has no prior criminal record. That is why securing local counsel is critical. We have helped many out-of-state clients resolve their cases without serving jail time or receiving a permanent conviction.

For legal reference on transport-related weapon charges, consult the Federal Firearm Owners Protection Act summary from the U.S. Government Publishing Office.

Arrests at Airports and Bridges Are Common for Non-Residents

Many out-of-state arrests occur at key entry points such as LaGuardia Airport, JFK, the Lincoln Tunnel, and the George Washington Bridge. Lawful travelers flying out of Manhattan may declare their firearm at the airline counter, only to be detained by Port Authority officers minutes later. Others are pulled over on major highways and charged after routine traffic stops.

We know how these cases unfold because we handle them regularly. Our defense begins with a review of travel intent, proper firearm storage, and the legality of the police encounter. We fight to suppress evidence where possible and use pretrial advocacy to avoid lifelong consequences for visitors caught in unfamiliar laws.

You May Still Face Felony Charges Even Without Criminal Intent

In Manhattan, prosecutors do not need to prove that you intended to break the law to charge you with a felony weapon offense. The mere possession of a firearm without a valid New York license is enough. This holds true even if the gun was unloaded, locked, and stored in full compliance with TSA or interstate transport guidelines.

We defend against these charges by highlighting your lawful background, lack of intent, and proper precautions. In many cases, we negotiate with prosecutors to seek a non-criminal resolution or move for full dismissal based on constitutional defenses. For a deeper explanation of New York criminal procedure, visit the New York State Unified Court System criminal process overview.

How Our Law Firm Defends Non-Residents Facing Manhattan Gun Charges

When you are charged in Manhattan as an out-of-state visitor, you face more than just legal penalties. You may be required to return to New York for multiple court dates, miss work, and deal with licensing consequences in your home state. Our firm steps in immediately to reduce those burdens and streamline your defense.

We seek to appear on your behalf for procedural hearings when possible. We also challenge the basis of your arrest, push for non-criminal outcomes, and pursue dismissal options through negotiated plea agreements or evidentiary suppression. Learn more about how we defend visitors and non-residents on our New York City Criminal Defense Attorney page.

We Use Your Lawful Conduct and Travel Intent to Support Your Defense

One of the most important aspects of your defense is proving that you followed every possible legal step in your home state. Whether you declared your firearm, secured it in a case, or followed TSA rules, your good-faith compliance matters. We build your case around that history.

We often submit evidence showing proper licensing, clean background checks, and compliance with 18 U.S. Code § 926A where relevant. Our goal is to shift the narrative from criminal intent to honest mistake and avoid the devastating impact of a Manhattan weapon charge.

Understanding How NY Penal Law Article 265 Classifies Weapons in Manhattan

New York Penal Law Article 265 outlines one of the most expansive lists of prohibited weapons in the United States. In Manhattan, this law governs what qualifies as a criminal weapon and how those charges are classified in court. It includes not only firearms but also items that may seem ordinary or legal in other jurisdictions. From unlicensed handguns to disguised blades, prosecutors use this statute to file charges quickly and aggressively.

At Petrus Law, we know how to interpret Article 265 from the perspective of a defense attorney who practices daily in Manhattan Criminal Court. Many people arrested under this law do not realize how broadly the statute is written. Even tools used for work or kept in a vehicle for safety can lead to felony-level charges. For a breakdown of New York’s statutory definitions, visit the New York State Senate’s searchable Penal Law Article 265 index.

What Manhattan Prosecutors Consider a Criminal Weapon

Under Article 265, a weapon is not limited to a gun. The law also includes metal knuckles, switchblades, stun devices, certain utility knives, and even objects classified as “dangerous instruments” if the police believe they were intended to be used unlawfully. This interpretation gives wide discretion to law enforcement and prosecutors when filing charges.

Possession alone can lead to an arrest. You do not need to use or brandish the item. Even items locked in a glove compartment or found during a traffic stop can support criminal charges under this section. That is why understanding the full scope of this law is critical when building a defense strategy.

Distinguishing Between Misdemeanor and Felony Weapon Charges

Article 265 includes both misdemeanor and felony levels depending on the type of weapon, location of the arrest, and prior criminal history. Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree is typically a Class A misdemeanor, while possession of a loaded firearm outside your home or business is charged as a Class C felony. That felony carries a mandatory minimum of 3.5 years in prison under New York’s sentencing laws.

We use our knowledge of sentencing guidelines and charging patterns to negotiate reductions wherever possible. We also prepare immediate motions to challenge the classification of the item if it does not meet the legal definition of a weapon. To review the structure of felony classifications in New York, visit the New York State Unified Court System felony sentencing chart.

Many Article 265 Arrests Involve Legal Items Misidentified as Weapons

Manhattan police often arrest individuals for possessing items that are not actually prohibited under the law. For example, folding knives used by contractors, tools kept by delivery drivers, or antique items stored for display purposes can all be misidentified during a stop or search. In high-stress environments, officers may err on the side of caution and file a weapons charge without proper investigation.

We act fast to obtain evidence that proves lawful use or mistaken identity. This includes employment records, digital receipts, surveillance footage, and witness statements. Our firm has a proven record of getting these types of charges dismissed before trial. For a broader understanding of how police classify seized items, consult the NYPD Property Evidence Control Division procedures.

Local Enforcement of Article 265 in Manhattan Is Extremely Aggressive

In Manhattan, enforcement of Article 265 is stricter than in most other counties. NYPD officers working in Times Square, near Penn Station, or around lower Manhattan use Article 265 frequently to arrest individuals on probable cause. This includes residents, workers, students, and visitors who may not be familiar with how narrowly New York defines legal possession.

Local prosecutors use this law to file fast-track cases, push for high bail, and secure early guilty pleas. That is why legal defense must begin immediately. At Petrus Law, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial, filing motions early and working to reduce or dismiss the charges through negotiation and litigation. To understand how local policing impacts enforcement patterns, read the New York City Office of the Inspector General report on policing and policy.

Judges in Manhattan Treat Article 265 Charges as High-Risk Offenses

Even when charged as a misdemeanor, judges at 100 Centre Street and other Manhattan courts often treat Article 265 arrests as public safety threats. This leads to stricter release conditions, travel restrictions, and protective orders while the case is pending. In some cases, prosecutors will argue for remand or high bail despite the absence of violence.

We work quickly to secure pretrial release, challenge overbroad bail requests, and protect your rights while the case moves forward. Our familiarity with Manhattan courtroom practices allows us to anticipate judicial concerns and present arguments that keep our clients out of custody. To learn how courts assign bail and release conditions, visit the New York City Criminal Justice Agency’s release guideline summary.

What To Do Immediately After a Gun Possession Arrest in Manhattan

Getting arrested for a weapon charge in Manhattan triggers a fast and unforgiving legal process. Whether the NYPD made the stop in Times Square, the Lower East Side, or on the West Side Highway, prosecutors waste no time filing charges. In many cases, you will be arraigned within 24 hours, and any mistakes made before that hearing could limit your defense options for months to come.

At Petrus Law, we have guided hundreds of clients through this first and most critical phase. What you do after your arrest matters more than what happened before it. That is why we urge anyone facing a Manhattan weapon charge to contact us immediately at (646) 733-4711. We will move fast to protect your rights, challenge unlawful procedures, and position your case for dismissal or reduction. For a full breakdown of your rights following a New York arrest, review the New York City Bar Association’s guide to criminal procedure.

Stay Silent Until You Have a Criminal Defense Attorney

Once you are in NYPD custody, officers may begin asking questions or requesting statements about where you were going, who you were with, or whether the weapon was yours. You do not have to answer. In fact, speaking without a lawyer present can damage your defense, even if you believe you are helping your case.

We tell every client to remain silent. Do not try to explain your side of the story to the arresting officer or anyone at the precinct. Do not answer questions about where the weapon came from or who else was involved. These conversations often appear in the prosecution’s evidence file. Once you are arrested, ask for legal counsel and say nothing else until your attorney arrives. To understand how these rights apply during Manhattan arrests, consult the New York Civil Liberties Union’s stop and arrest FAQ.

Do Not Consent to a Search Without a Warrant

Officers may attempt to search your phone, vehicle, or personal belongings after the arrest. In some cases, they will ask you to sign a consent form or verbally agree to a search. You do not have to agree. You have a constitutional right to refuse consent, and exercising that right can prevent the police from collecting damaging evidence against you.

If you are pressured to agree or threatened with additional charges, stay firm. Decline the search and request your attorney immediately. We will review whether the search that occurred was lawful and file suppression motions under Criminal Procedure Law § 710.20 if necessary. Learn more about unlawful searches and your rights by reviewing the ACLU’s vehicle search explanation.

Do Not Assume You Are Guilty Just Because You Were Arrested

Many people arrested in Manhattan for weapon possession assume that a conviction is inevitable. That is not true. An arrest is not the same as a conviction, and prosecutors must still prove their case in court. In many instances, we find problems with the initial stop, flaws in police testimony, or misclassification of the item seized.

At Petrus Law, we take immediate steps to examine the arrest report, review surveillance or body cam footage, and preserve any evidence that may support your defense. We do not wait until the arraignment to act. We build leverage from day one and use every opportunity to challenge the prosecution’s narrative.

Contact a Manhattan Weapon Charge Defense Attorney Immediately

Every hour counts after a gun possession arrest in Manhattan. Prosecutors in New York County move fast to file formal charges and request restrictions that can affect your job, family, and freedom. Judges often issue protective orders and set bail during your first court appearance. If you do not have an attorney present, you risk giving up your rights or agreeing to conditions that hurt your future.

By contacting Petrus Law as soon as you are arrested, you give your defense a head start. We prepare you for arraignment, argue for your release, and begin identifying flaws in the state’s case. You do not have to wait until charges are filed to fight back. Call (646) 733-4711 now or visit our Manhattan Criminal Defense page to take the first step.