Defense Attorneys for Manhattan Gun Charges Ready to Protect Your Record

If you’re charged with a gun crime in Manhattan, you’re not just battling the NYPD, you’re battling one of the toughest court systems in the country. New York County prosecutors aggressively prosecute gun cases, even if the gun was legally bought somewhere else outside the state. Whether the incident took place in Harlem, Chelsea, or the Lower East Side, a conviction for criminal possession of a weapon can lead to years behind bars and a felony record.

We are aware of how fast these cases move and what is at stake. We fight to preserve your liberty, your livelihood, and your future. Our firm represents defendants on a regular basis at Manhattan Criminal Court at 100 Centre Street, where judges expect sharp, tough defense. These courts prosecute first-time gun possession as a violent felony pursuant to New York Penal Law § 265. We move fast.

Don’t wait until arraignment to start building your defense. The moment you get arrested, prosecutors are cooking up your conviction. Call 646-733-4711  today for a confidential consultation and get a head start on the charge.

To better analyze how these cases impact your freedom and life, study how New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services handles crimes involving firearms.

What Happens at a Gun Charge Arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court

If you were arrested for a firearm offense in Manhattan, your arraignment will likely take place at the Criminal Court building on 100 Centre Street. This first appearance happens fast, often within 24 hours, and can determine whether you walk free or stay behind bars during the case. Judges don’t wait. Prosecutors move quickly. Without strategic representation at arraignment, your rights, freedom, and future could be compromised before the case even begins.

Manhattan prosecutors treat gun possession cases as serious threats to public safety. They routinely seek strict pretrial conditions including firearm forfeiture, high bail, and broad protective orders. That’s why we appear ready to push back from the start. For an overview of the arraignment process, visit the New York City Criminal Court official site.

Bail Decisions in Manhattan Gun Possession Cases

During the arraignment, one of the most important moments is the court’s decision on bail. If you’re facing Manhattan gun charges, the prosecutor may request your detention based on flight risk or public danger. This can happen even if you have no criminal history and the firearm was lawfully purchased outside New York.

At Petrus Law, we prepare early and fight hard at this stage. We present compelling evidence showing community ties, employment, and family responsibilities. Our goal is simple, keep you out of jail and in control of your defense. Learn how New York judges assess bail requests by exploring the NYC Criminal Justice Agency’s resources.

How Judges Interpret Gun Charges at First Appearance

Judges evaluate firearm possession cases based on where the weapon was found, whether it was loaded, and if it was allegedly used during another crime. These factors influence every condition the court may set at arraignment, including supervised release or immediate detention.

When we walk into court, we already know how Manhattan judges have ruled in similar cases. We adjust our approach based on that knowledge, ensuring your case is heard with the context and clarity it deserves. This strategy often prevents prosecutors from setting the tone unchallenged. To understand how New York classifies gun offenses, check out the Giffords Law Center’s New York page.

Protective Orders for Firearm-Related Arrests in Manhattan

Judges often issue temporary orders of protection if a weapon is found during a domestic incident or in shared living space. These orders can prohibit you from entering your home or contacting a family member, even when no threats or violence occurred.

We take immediate steps to limit or challenge these orders, especially when they interfere with your parental rights or employment. One accusation should not erase your access to your family or property. For additional information about protective orders and your rights, visit the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence.

What Happens to Your Firearm After Arrest

The NYPD may confiscate your firearm on the spot, even if you hold a permit in another state. Courts can then issue a forfeiture order during your arraignment, placing your weapon into permanent police custody. In many cases, this happens before any determination of guilt.

We move fast to dispute these forfeitures and to ensure the government does not overreach. Our legal motions challenge the basis of the arrest and the legality of the seizure itself. You can explore the policies related to firearm forfeiture at the New York Attorney General’s guide on weapons.

Firearm Surrender Orders Can Be Imposed Instantly

Even before formal charges proceed, the judge may order you to surrender all firearms in your possession. This includes weapons stored legally at your residence or licensed under another jurisdiction. If you work in a security-related role, this type of order can impact your career immediately.

We proactively file motions to narrow or block these orders, especially in cases involving professional license holders, military personnel, or lawful owners unaware of New York’s complex firearm restrictions. To better understand gun laws across jurisdictions, review the Legal Information from NY.gov.

Early Defense at Arraignment Can Change Your Case

The arraignment is not just a procedural formality. It is your first chance to shape the narrative. The court will decide on bail, firearm forfeiture, and personal restrictions based on what it hears in the first 10 minutes. If your lawyer is silent or unprepared, the consequences can last for months.

At Petrus Law, we treat arraignments as high-stakes battles. Our team arrives early with paperwork, character statements, and legal challenges ready to go. That early momentum often leads to more favorable terms and puts the prosecution on notice that your defense will be aggressive, not passive. For an in-depth overview of how firearm arrests are tracked across New York, consult the New York Division of Criminal Justice Services firearm statistics.

Your Constitutional Rights in Manhattan Gun Arrests

Gun arrests in Manhattan often begin with aggressive police tactics and end with serious felony charges. But the Constitution does not disappear when the NYPD makes a stop. Whether you were pulled over in Washington Heights or arrested near Union Square, your Fourth and Second Amendment rights matter. The problem is, officers do not always follow the rules, and prosecutors rarely acknowledge those violations unless forced to.

At Petrus Law, we build your defense from the ground up by identifying every rights violation and using it to suppress evidence or reduce charges. We understand how New York courts interpret firearm laws differently than other parts of the country. That is why our legal strategy focuses on protecting your freedoms and dismantling the case from the very first hearing. For more information about how New York regulates firearms under state law, see the New York State Police Pistol Permit Licensing Guide.

How the Second Amendment Is Treated in New York City

New York does not give broad protection to firearm possession the way other states do. While the Second Amendment protects the right to bear arms, New York law places tight restrictions on how and where that right can be exercised. Manhattan gun charges often stem from possession of a loaded weapon without a New York license, even when that weapon is legally owned in another state.

The courts in Manhattan follow state precedent, not federal norms, which often leads to conflict between lawful intent and strict enforcement. Our legal team uses these contradictions to challenge the legitimacy of arrests and to file motions that restrict the prosecution’s use of critical evidence. To understand the state’s firearm licensing structure, visit the New York State Unified Court System Firearm Law Index.

When the NYPD Conducts Illegal Searches or Seizures

Officers must have probable cause or a valid warrant to search your home, vehicle, or personal belongings. In reality, many arrests begin with vague suspicion or stop-and-frisk tactics that violate your Fourth Amendment rights. A gun found in a locked glovebox or beneath a seat can still be tossed out of court if the search that uncovered it was unconstitutional.

At Petrus Law, we review every step of your arrest, from the initial stop to the search and questioning. If we identify a constitutional error, we move fast to suppress the firearm and any other evidence collected as a result. This often forces prosecutors to rethink their entire case. Learn more about search and seizure rules by reading the Legal Information Institute’s Fourth Amendment explanation.

Understanding How New York Defines a Loaded Firearm

In New York City, a gun does not have to contain a bullet in the chamber to be considered loaded. Under Penal Law § 265.00, if ammunition is accessible and in the same location as the firearm, the law treats the weapon as loaded. This legal definition often catches people off guard, especially travelers or gun owners from out of state.

This broad definition gives prosecutors a powerful tool, but it also creates opportunities for defense. We challenge whether the ammunition was truly accessible and whether the police followed proper procedures when labeling the firearm as loaded. These technical points can lead to a downgrade from a violent felony to a lesser charge or even dismissal. For more details on New York’s gun possession statutes, view the FindLaw page on New York Penal Code 265.

How We Use Rights Violations to Suppress Firearm Evidence

The strongest defenses often begin with constitutional motions. If your rights were violated at any point during your arrest, we file targeted motions to keep illegally obtained evidence out of court. This includes challenging traffic stops, unlawful searches, improper questioning, or Miranda violations.

When evidence is suppressed, prosecutors are often left with nothing to proceed on. That leverage allows us to negotiate better outcomes or win outright dismissals. We use this strategy in courts across Manhattan, from the Midtown Community Court to the Supreme Court on Centre Street. For a deeper explanation of suppression motions, visit the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Motion Practice Guide.

Why Legal Knowledge of the NY SAFE Act Matters in Manhattan

The NY SAFE Act introduced sweeping changes to gun laws across the state, including restrictions on magazine capacity, background checks for private sales, and new registration rules. Many Manhattan residents and visitors face gun charges because they unknowingly violated one of these provisions.

We stay current on every update to the SAFE Act and use its complexity to your advantage. Our defense strategy often includes arguments about lack of notice, unclear application of new rules, or wrongful interpretation by law enforcement. For an overview of SAFE Act regulations and updates, visit the New York State Government SAFE Act Resource Page.

Fighting Gun Charges for Out-of-State Visitors in Manhattan Courts

Manhattan gun charges often target travelers from states like Pennsylvania, Florida, Texas, and New Jersey who legally carry firearms back home. These visitors arrive in New York unaware that their valid permits mean nothing inside city limits. The result is often an unexpected arrest, followed by felony weapon charges, court appearances, and the threat of prison time.

At Petrus Law, we defend out-of-state clients charged with unlawful firearm possession under New York Penal Law § 265.03. Our approach is direct, strategic, and tailored to Manhattan courtrooms. We focus on dismissals and charge reductions based on lack of criminal intent, licensing confusion, and violations of constitutional protections. You can review how New York firearm law differs from other states by visiting the National Rifle Association’s Interstate Transportation Guide.

Why New York Does Not Recognize Your Firearm License from Another State

New York does not honor concealed carry permits from any other state. That means even if your handgun is registered in Florida or Pennsylvania, possession in Manhattan can still be prosecuted as a violent felony. The state requires its own license, and carrying a loaded weapon without it can lead to automatic arrest.

Many visitors do not realize this until they are already in handcuffs. We work quickly to educate the court about your licensing history, travel purpose, and lack of criminal intent. That context matters, especially in a city where prosecutors often treat good-faith mistakes like crimes of violence. To understand the scope of state reciprocity laws, see the US Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map.

Arrests at Airports and Bridges Often Lead to Criminal Charges

Tourists and commuters are frequently arrested at major entry points like JFK Airport, Penn Station, and the George Washington Bridge. Some voluntarily disclose their firearms to TSA agents or Port Authority police, believing their license protects them. Instead, they are arrested on the spot and charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

We have defended dozens of clients arrested at LaGuardia, Penn Station, and downtown Manhattan after legally transporting firearms through other states. In many cases, these situations can be resolved without jail time. The earlier we get involved, the more options we have to avoid permanent damage. Learn more about airport-related firearm arrests from the Transportation Security Administration Firearm Guidelines.

How We Use Good Faith Mistakes to Seek Dismissals

Manhattan prosecutors must prove that you knowingly violated New York’s gun laws. That burden is often hard to meet when the facts show you followed the rules in your home state. We highlight clean criminal records, valid permits, and the absence of criminal behavior to push for full dismissals or non-criminal dispositions.

Courts have shown willingness to resolve these cases through adjournments in contemplation of dismissal or conditional dismissals. But timing is everything. If we act before the prosecutor builds leverage, we can shape a better resolution. To understand how conditional dismissals work, visit the New York Courts Criminal Procedure FAQ.

The Role of Legal Intent in Out-of-State Gun Possession Cases

Intent matters in every firearm case, especially for nonresidents. You may have declared the weapon at an airport, kept it locked in your vehicle, or transported it under the belief that federal law allowed it. These factors create powerful arguments for mitigation.

Our attorneys present this narrative clearly and convincingly in court. We humanize your case, showing prosecutors and judges that you are not a threat but a law-abiding visitor who misunderstood a complex patchwork of local laws. When done effectively, this approach often leads to reduced charges or outright dismissal. For more on how legal intent impacts criminal liability, review the Cornell Legal Information Institute’s discussion on mens rea.

Past Results in Manhattan Gun Cases Involving Tourists and Commuters

We have successfully defended travelers from Texas, Ohio, Georgia, and New Jersey who faced Manhattan gun charges after legally transporting firearms. In one case, a Pennsylvania resident was arrested in Midtown after calling the police to ask how to safely store his weapon. We resolved that case without jail and protected his clean record.

These stories are not rare. They reflect how over-policing, unclear laws, and bureaucratic overreach can criminalize honest mistakes. You can read more about similar defense outcomes on our Violent Crimes Defense Results Page.

Bail and Pre Trial Release in NYC Gun Possession Cases

If you are arrested for a firearm offense in Manhattan, your first appearance may determine your freedom while the case moves forward. Judges at Manhattan Criminal Court review gun possession cases with urgency and often under pressure from prosecutors pushing for detention. Even when there is no prior criminal history, bail can be set high, or the court may issue orders that restrict your freedom entirely.

At Petrus Law, we act immediately to fight for your release. We build persuasive bail packages that demonstrate your local ties, employment history, and willingness to comply with court orders. Every hour counts after a firearm arrest. That’s why we move quickly to present compelling arguments for non-monetary release or supervised conditions. For a breakdown of how judges in New York assess pretrial risk, view the New York Criminal Justice Agency’s bail evaluation process.

Why Firearm Arrests Often Lead to Detention in Manhattan Courts

Judges are allowed to impose bail for weapon possession charges under current law. Unlike some misdemeanors, most felony gun charges are not subject to automatic release. The court can consider the seriousness of the alleged offense, the presence of ammunition, and any risk of harm to the community.

Prosecutors regularly argue that loaded firearm cases justify detention, even when no threats or violence occurred. We push back hard with documented evidence of our clients’ stability and track record. This strategy often makes the difference between walking out of court and waiting for trial behind bars. For more detail on the statutes governing firearm possession, see the New York Penal Code Section 265.03.

How Bail Reform Still Affects Firearm Charges in New York City

While New York’s bail reform laws prevent judges from setting cash bail in many cases, most gun possession charges remain eligible for monetary or custodial conditions. That means you need legal representation ready to argue for release on your own recognizance or supervised release the moment you appear in court.

We use New York’s updated bail guidelines to our advantage, presenting facts that show you do not pose a flight risk or danger. This includes submitting proof of housing, employment, and community ties. We also challenge blanket detention requests that rely solely on the presence of a weapon. To understand how bail reform interacts with felony charges, visit the Center for Court Innovation’s bail policy summary.

Supervised Release Can Help You Stay Out of Jail Before Trial

In many Manhattan gun cases, supervised release offers a path to avoid bail entirely. This court-monitored program allows you to remain at home while reporting regularly to a pretrial officer. It protects your job, your family, and your ability to participate in your own defense.

We often request supervised release when bail seems likely. Our early intervention helps shape the conversation in court and gives judges a responsible option that avoids incarceration. For an official overview of supervised release in NYC courts, visit the New York City Criminal Justice Agency Supervised Release Program.

Why Early Advocacy Makes a Difference in Manhattan Firearm Cases

The arraignment is not the time to wait and see. By the time your name is called, the court has already reviewed a criminal complaint, arrest report, and often a bail recommendation. If your attorney does not counter that with immediate advocacy, the court may set bail or issue broad restrictions without hearing your side.

We show up ready with records, references, and a clear narrative. We position our clients for release by shaping how the judge views the case from the first moment. This approach is especially critical in gun cases, where fear and public pressure often cloud fair judgment. To see how early strategy impacts defense outcomes, visit the National Institute of Justice’s pretrial release study.

How We Help Clients Avoid Pre Trial Detention in Gun Arrest Cases

Staying out of jail while your case proceeds is not just about convenience. Pretrial detention can impact your ability to support your family, maintain housing, and work with your defense team. Judges often assume silence means agreement, which is why we speak first and speak forcefully in court.

Our defense team builds individualized release arguments backed by proof. We document everything from travel history to job schedules and use that evidence to request bail alternatives. If we can get you out early, we give you the power to fight back on your terms. For examples of how we’ve kept firearm clients out of pretrial detention, visit our Case Results page.

Recent Manhattan Gun Case Results and Client Victories

At Petrus Law, we build defense strategies that work inside real Manhattan courtrooms, not just on paper. Prosecutors in New York treat unlawful firearm possession as a top-tier offense, often pushing for felony convictions and jail time, even when the facts involve no violence. But a smart defense, backed by early legal action, can shift the outcome dramatically.

We do not rely on luck. We rely on preparation. Our results come from knowing the law, the courthouse at 100 Centre Street, and the personalities behind the prosecution. Each of our gun possession victories tells a different story of how timing, legal knowledge, and persistence made the difference. You can see more about our broader success across violent and weapon-related charges on our criminal defense results page.

Felony Gun Charges Dismissed for Out-of-State Professional

Our client, a licensed firearm owner from Texas, was arrested after declaring his weapon at LaGuardia Airport. Despite following federal guidelines and having no prior arrests, he was charged with criminal possession of a loaded firearm under New York Penal Law § 265.03. Prosecutors initially demanded jail time and a permanent felony record.

We intervened at arraignment, filed a detailed motion to dismiss based on lack of criminal intent, and challenged the legitimacy of the arrest under the TSA’s own disclosure rules. The case was dismissed in full before indictment. You can read the TSA’s firearm transport guidance here.

Loaded Firearm Charges Resolved Without Jail or Conviction

A young professional from Brooklyn was stopped during a routine traffic stop on the FDR. Police found a handgun in the center console and charged him with possession of a loaded firearm in the second degree. Despite having no criminal record, he was facing up to 15 years in prison due to the weapon’s proximity to ammunition.

We filed a suppression motion challenging the legality of the stop, citing Fourth Amendment violations and inconsistencies in the officer’s testimony. The prosecutor ultimately offered a plea to a non-criminal violation with no jail, no probation, and no record. To learn how firearm evidence can be challenged in traffic stops, visit the National Institute of Justice’s page on search and seizure.

Manhattan Gun Possession Reduced to Violation After Advocacy

A Manhattan college student was arrested near Washington Square Park for allegedly carrying a weapon in a backpack. NYPD officers charged him with possession of a firearm on school grounds, a serious felony that could have jeopardized his future education, employment, and immigration status.

We negotiated with the assistant district attorney over several weeks while simultaneously preparing for trial. By demonstrating lack of intent, highlighting the absence of prior offenses, and leveraging academic and community references, we secured a reduction to a violation. The client avoided any criminal record and remained eligible for federal student aid. Read how firearm arrests may impact education access at the Federal Student Aid Eligibility Guide.

Arrest Avoided for Client After Strategic Pre Arrest Intervention

A client contacted us immediately after being questioned by detectives about a gun allegedly found in a shared vehicle in the Lower East Side. Law enforcement planned to make an arrest the following day. Instead, we moved quickly, provided documentation, facilitated a witness interview, and met with the prosecutor before the complaint was filed.

Because we acted fast, charges were never filed. No arrest was made. No court dates were scheduled. Our client avoided the criminal system entirely. These cases are rare, but they prove how pre arrest advocacy can lead to quiet, powerful wins. To understand how legal intervention may prevent criminal filing, visit the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Pretrial Defense Resource.

Felony and Misdemeanor Weapons Charges in New York Criminal Courts

In New York, not all gun charges are treated equally. The law makes sharp distinctions between misdemeanor weapons offenses and felony-level firearm crimes. However, in Manhattan, prosecutors often overcharge cases that could be resolved at a lower level. That’s where strategy matters. A felony conviction can carry years of prison time, while a misdemeanor may qualify for diversion, probation, or dismissal.

At Petrus Law, we identify every opportunity to reduce or reclassify gun charges. We act fast to present evidence, challenge enhancements, and negotiate for non-criminal resolutions. We appear daily in Manhattan Criminal Court and understand how local judges and prosecutors handle unlawful weapon possession across different borough neighborhoods. For an overview of New York’s firearm grading laws, see the New York State Legislature’s Penal Law definitions.

What Makes a Firearm Offense a Felony in Manhattan

Felony-level firearm charges in Manhattan often begin with accusations of possessing a loaded gun without a valid New York license. Under Penal Law § 265.03, this charge is a class C violent felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Prosecutors can also charge felony offenses for firearms in schools, public housing, or if the weapon is recovered during the commission of another crime.

Judges are required to impose minimum sentencing in certain felony weapons cases, especially for second-time offenders. We work to break that pattern. Our team immediately evaluates whether the weapon was actually loaded under the law, whether the stop was valid, and whether police exceeded their authority. When we find legal flaws, we press for dismissal or downgrade. Learn more about felony sentencing structures through the New York Courts Sentencing Guide.

Understanding Misdemeanor Gun and Weapons Offenses in New York City

Misdemeanor weapons charges typically involve less dangerous circumstances, such as carrying an unloaded firearm or possessing a weapon not classified as a firearm, like a switchblade or metal knuckles. These cases are usually charged under Penal Law § 265.01, a class A misdemeanor that carries a maximum of one year in jail. While still serious, these offenses are often eligible for alternative sentencing or sealed outcomes.

We often resolve misdemeanor gun charges without a conviction. When our clients qualify, we pursue diversion programs, community service, or adjournments in contemplation of dismissal. Timing matters. Early action allows us to push for reduced charges and avoid consequences that damage jobs, housing, or immigration status. To review legal distinctions between firearm types, visit the Legal Aid Society’s Gun Possession Defense Overview.

How We Reduce Felony Gun Charges to Avoid Mandatory Prison

One of the most critical goals in a firearm case is keeping the charge out of felony territory. At Petrus Law, we challenge whether the weapon was operable, if it was actually loaded under the statute, and whether the client had lawful possession in another jurisdiction. These issues can justify a downgrade from a violent felony to a misdemeanor or violation.

In Manhattan courts, prosecutors will often negotiate if we present a strong pretrial motion or evidentiary challenge. Our goal is always to protect your record and your future. When felony charges are unavoidable, we still work to mitigate exposure through conditional pleas, split sentences, or court-approved programs. For additional background on how New York defines weapon possession, review the NYC Mayor’s Office Public Safety Overview.

When Weapon Enhancements Increase Penalties in Manhattan Gun Cases

Some gun charges carry added weight because of where or how the weapon was recovered. Possessing a firearm near a school, while on parole, or during another alleged crime can lead to sentence enhancements. These factors may elevate a misdemeanor into a felony or eliminate eligibility for diversion.

We anticipate these issues early. By filing tailored motions and gathering documentation immediately, we position our clients to fight back before the prosecutor controls the narrative. That pressure often leads to more favorable deals or even dropped enhancements. To understand how location and circumstance affect prosecution, explore the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office Gun Violence Strategy.

Why Legal Classification Can Decide the Outcome of Your Case

The classification of your charge often determines what happens next. Felony-level gun cases move through Supreme Court and are more likely to involve pretrial detention, indictments, and long-term consequences. Misdemeanor cases, by contrast, often remain in Criminal Court and may qualify for non-jail dispositions or early dismissal.

We push to keep cases in the lower courts and out of felony territory. That effort starts from day one and continues through each hearing, motion, and negotiation. A downgrade is not just a legal shift, it is a chance to preserve your record, your freedom, and your reputation. You can read more about courtroom pathways at the New York City Criminal Court official site.

How Gun Charges Can Affect Your Immigration or Employment Status in New York

Facing Manhattan gun charges does more than put your freedom at risk. A single arrest or conviction for a firearm offense can derail your career, trigger immigration consequences, and limit your professional licensing for years. This is especially true in New York City, where background checks are routine and where firearm convictions are often treated as crimes of violence under state and federal law.

At Petrus Law, we focus on protecting your record before it costs you your future. Whether you work in healthcare, finance, education, or law enforcement, we understand what is on the line. We take early steps to fight firearm allegations and keep your name clean so you can keep working and remain in the country lawfully. To learn more about how gun offenses affect lawful status, visit the Immigrant Legal Resource Center firearm guidance.

Firearm Arrests Can Trigger Immigration Enforcement and Removal

Non-citizens, including green card holders, visa holders, and undocumented individuals, face additional consequences if arrested for gun possession in Manhattan. A conviction for a weapon-related offense may be classified as an aggravated felony or crime involving moral turpitude under federal law, both of which can result in ICE detention or deportation proceedings.

Even a non-criminal resolution may trigger consequences if not handled strategically. We coordinate with immigration counsel and craft defense strategies that avoid admissions harmful to your status. Our legal arguments focus on dismissals, record sealing, and plea structures that do not qualify as deportable offenses. For more information about removal triggers tied to weapon charges, consult the American Immigration Council legal fact sheet.

Gun Possession Convictions Can Limit Your Career and Background Checks

In Manhattan, employers across industries rely on fingerprint-based background checks that report both arrests and convictions. A conviction for possession of a loaded firearm, even without intent to use, can bar you from employment in security, government contracting, transportation, or licensed trades.

We work fast to protect your employment status. This includes requesting conditional dismissals, advocating for non-criminal pleas, and fighting to suppress illegally obtained evidence. When your livelihood is at stake, every detail matters. To better understand how background checks impact New York jobs, visit the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services licensing info page.

Gun Charges Can Threaten Professional Licenses in New York

If you are licensed in real estate, law, nursing, or finance, a gun charge in Manhattan can lead to disciplinary review or license suspension. Even pending charges may trigger mandatory reporting requirements. These boards do not wait for a conviction to take action. They act on the underlying allegations.

We help clients notify licensing bodies the right way and provide supporting documentation that demonstrates the case is being actively contested. We also move quickly to resolve cases in ways that protect your credentials and standing. For more guidance, view the New York Department of State Professional Licensing Unit.

College Students and Financial Aid Can Be Affected by Gun Convictions

A firearm conviction can cause more than court fines. It may also disrupt educational goals and result in a loss of federal financial aid eligibility. For students in Manhattan or attending local universities, that could mean withdrawal, housing loss, or visa consequences if enrolled on a student visa.

We take a proactive approach when students are charged with weapon-related crimes. Our legal strategies aim to avoid convictions and keep academic records clean. This includes requesting educational alternatives and working with university counsel to prevent academic discipline. To learn how criminal convictions impact federal aid, see the Federal Student Aid eligibility site.

Your Career and Immigration Status Deserve Immediate Legal Protection

If you were charged with a firearm offense in Manhattan, the consequences may stretch far beyond the courtroom. Gun charges can trigger federal immigration actions, destroy job opportunities, and put your future at risk. At Petrus Law, we act quickly to protect your name, defend your status, and preserve your career.

Every decision matters. Let our Manhattan gun charge attorneys step in before you lose ground that can’t be recovered. Call 646-733-4711  now to speak with our defense team or schedule your confidential case review online. We are ready to fight for your freedom and your future.