FOID Violations Illinois
Illinois gun laws are some of the most restrictive in the country. If you want to own a gun in Illinois, you will need to get a Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card. The FOID card is issued by the Illinois State Police.If you are accused of violating your FOID card requirements, it is important to take the accusation seriously. If you are found guilty of a FOID violation, you could face jail time and steep fines.
FOID Violations in Illinois
Although our right to bear arms is protected by the U.S. Constitution, states have the authority to limit gun ownership. In Illinois, gun ownership is considered a privilege. If a FOID carrier commits a criminal offense or violates FOID regulations, he or she may be stripped of his or her right to possess firearms.
Common examples of FOID-related violations include:
- Failing to renew your FOID card
- Lying on your FOID application
- Giving false information to a gun dealer
- Allowing someone else to use your FOID card
- Possessing a firearm with an expired FOID card
- Possessing a firearm with a revoked FOID card
- Transferring firearms or firearm ammunition without a FOID card
Penalties for a FOID Violation
If you are convicted of a FOID violation, you could face serious penalties. The punishment for a FOID violation depends on the severity of the offense and whether you have any prior convictions.
Possible penalties for a FOID violation include:
- Class A misdemeanor - Up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500
- Class 4 felony - One to three years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000
- Class 3 felony - Two to five years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000
What to Do If You Were Accused of a Firearm-Related Offense
If you have been accused of a firearm-related offense, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. A criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the criminal justice system and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Do not provide any information to the police until you have had a chance to talk to your lawyer. You have a right to remain silent and avoid incriminating yourself. Taking advantage of this important right is one of the best things you can do to avoid worsening your situation.
Contact a Will County, IL Criminal FOID Violation Defense Attorney
Weapons charges and FOID violations can lead to loss of gun ownership privileges, steep fines, and imprisonment. Do not delay seeking help if you or someone you care about is facing gun-related charges. Contact a Will and Grundy County criminal defense lawyer Jack L. Zaremba for a free consultation Call 815-740-4025 today.