Firearm & Gun Charges
The Evans Law Firm
Tennessee Criminal Defense
Federal Gun Crimes Defense: Safeguard Your Rights,
Liberty, and Second Amendment Future
Federal Firearms Defense Attorney in Knoxville, Tennessee
Federal Gun Charges Can Carry Years, Or Decades, In Federal Prison
Federal firearms charges are among the most aggressively prosecuted crimes in the federal system.
Unlike many state offenses, federal gun cases often involve mandatory minimum prison sentences, federal sentencing enhancements, and lengthy investigations conducted by multiple law enforcement agencies.
Many people are shocked to learn that a firearm charge can result in years of imprisonment even when the firearm was never fired, displayed, or used during a crime.
Federal prosecutors frequently pursue gun offenses involving:
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Felons in possession of firearms
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Possession of firearms during drug trafficking offenses
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Firearm trafficking
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Straw purchases
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Machine guns and Glock switches
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Silencers and suppressors
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Short-barreled rifles and shotguns
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Firearms with obliterated serial numbers
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Interstate firearm offenses
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Federal conspiracy allegations
At The Evans Law Firm, we represent gun owners, veterans, hunters, competitive shooters, and individuals facing serious federal firearm investigations throughout Tennessee and federal courts nationwide.
If you are under investigation by the ATF, FBI, or another federal agency, immediate legal representation is critical.
Why Federal Firearms Cases Are Different
Federal gun cases are not simply state gun charges handled in a different courtroom.
Federal prosecutions often involve:
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ATF investigations
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Federal search warrants
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Wiretaps
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Confidential informants
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Grand jury subpoenas
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Federal Sentencing Guidelines
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Mandatory minimum prison sentences
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Federal forfeiture proceedings
Because federal investigators frequently spend an extended amount of time building a case before making an arrest, it is important to act quickly once you learn you may be under investigation.
Common Federal Firearms Charges
Federal law contains numerous firearm-related offenses.
Some of the most common charges include:
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Felon in possession of a firearm
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Possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking
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Firearm trafficking
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Unlicensed dealing
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False statements during firearm purchases
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Glock switch and machine gun allegations
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National Firearms Act (NFA) violations
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Firearms with obliterated serial numbers
Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Federal law generally prohibits certain individuals from possessing firearms or ammunition.
These cases often arise after:
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Traffic stops
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Search warrants
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Domestic disputes
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Drug investigations
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Routine police encounters
Many people are surprised to learn that possession can be either actual or constructive.
The government may attempt to argue possession even when a firearm was located in:
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A shared vehicle
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A shared residence
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A family member's property
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A workplace
Constructive possession cases are frequently contested and often involve significant factual disputes.
Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking
One of the most serious federal firearm charges involves allegations that a firearm was possessed during or in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Federal prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases because they frequently carry mandatory consecutive prison sentences.
This means the firearm sentence may be added on top of any sentence imposed for the underlying drug offense.
These charges often arise during:
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Drug trafficking investigations
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Federal drug conspiracy cases
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Search warrant executions
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Controlled purchases
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Long-term federal investigations
Firearm Trafficking and Unlicensed Dealing
Federal law generally requires individuals engaged in the business of selling firearms to obtain the appropriate federal licenses.
Federal prosecutors may pursue allegations involving:
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Repeated firearm sales
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Interstate firearm transactions
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Straw purchases
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Trafficking conspiracies
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False statements during firearm purchases
Firearm trafficking investigations frequently involve undercover operations and confidential informants.
False Statements on Firearm Purchase Forms
Federal firearm purchases require completion of ATF Form 4473.
Prosecutors often pursue charges when they believe an individual:
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Made false statements
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Misrepresented ownership
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Purchased firearms for prohibited persons
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Concealed disqualifying information
Even when no violent crime occurs, these charges can carry significant penalties.
Glock Switches and Machine Gun Allegations
What Is a Glock Switch?
A Glock switch, sometimes referred to as an auto sear, is a small device designed to convert a semi-automatic handgun into a fully automatic firearm.
Under federal law, these devices are generally classified as machine guns.
Many people are unaware that possession of the device itself may trigger federal criminal liability—even if it has never been installed or used.
Federal authorities aggressively prosecute Glock switch cases throughout Tennessee and across the country.
Why These Cases Are Taken So Seriously
Federal prosecutors view machine gun allegations as a major public safety concern.
Investigations often involve:
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ATF task forces
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Federal search warrants
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Digital evidence
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Social media investigations
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Firearm tracing
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Laboratory testing
The penalties can be severe and often involve significant federal sentencing exposure.
National Firearms Act (NFA) Violations
Federal law strictly regulates certain firearms and accessories.
These cases often involve allegations concerning:
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Suppressors (silencers)
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Short-barreled rifles (SBRs)
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Short-barreled shotguns (SBSs)
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Machine guns
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Destructive devices
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Other regulated firearms
Because NFA regulations are highly technical, many cases involve disputes regarding:
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Registration
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Possession
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Ownership
Compliance requirements
Firearms With Obliterated Serial Numbers
Federal law imposes enhanced penalties for firearms with removed, altered, or obliterated serial numbers.
These allegations often arise during:
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Traffic stops
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Drug investigations
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Search warrant executions
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Gang investigations
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Possession cases
Whether the accused knew about the alleged serial number issue frequently becomes a major issue in the defense
Federal Sentencing Enhancements
One of the most important aspects of any federal firearm case is understanding potential sentencing exposure.
Factors that may increase penalties include:
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Prior felony convictions
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Drug trafficking allegations
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Violent crime allegations
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Machine gun accusations
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Obliterated serial numbers
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Large numbers of firearms
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Trafficking allegations
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Gang-related allegations
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Multiple firearms
Because sentencing enhancements can dramatically increase prison exposure, they should be carefully reviewed and challenged whenever appropriate.
ATF Investigations
Many federal firearm investigations begin long before criminal charges are filed.
Common signs of an investigation include:
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Search warrants
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Target letters
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Grand jury subpoenas
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Interviews of friends or family
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Visits from federal agents
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Requests to speak with investigators
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Firearm seizures
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Asset seizures
If federal agents contact you, speak with an attorney before answering questions.
Many people unintentionally damage their case by attempting to explain the situation without legal counsel.
Federal Firearm Forfeiture Proceedings
Federal investigations frequently involve the seizure of firearms and other property.
The government may attempt to permanently forfeit:
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Firearms
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Ammunition
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Accessories
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Cash
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Vehicles
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Other personal property
Strict deadlines often apply.
Failing to respond properly may result in the permanent loss of valuable property rights.
Common Defenses to Federal Firearm Charges
Every federal firearm case is different, but several defenses frequently arise.
Illegal Search and Seizure
Federal agents must comply with the Fourth Amendment.
Evidence obtained through unlawful searches may be subject to suppression.
Lack of Possession
Simply being near a firearm does not necessarily establish possession.
Constructive possession cases often involve substantial factual disputes.
Lack of Knowledge
Many firearm offenses require proof that the accused knew certain facts regarding either the firearm or their legal status.
Knowledge issues frequently arise in cases involving:
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Shared residences
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Shared vehicles
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Serial number allegations
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NFA-regulated firearms
Constitutional Challenges
Recent Second Amendment decisions have changed the legal landscape for certain firearm prosecutions.
Courts continue to examine whether particular firearm restrictions are consistent with the historical traditions protected by the Constitution.
Entrapment
Some ATF investigations rely on undercover operations and confidential informants.
When government conduct crosses constitutional boundaries, an entrapment defense may become available.
Challenging Prior Convictions
Many firearm charges depend upon prior criminal convictions.
Carefully reviewing those convictions may uncover legal issues that significantly affect the government's case.
Federal Firearms Defense in Tennessee
The Evans Law Firm represents clients facing federal firearm investigations and prosecutions throughout Tennessee, including cases in:
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United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee
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United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee
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United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee
Federal firearm investigations require immediate attention and strategic decision-making from the earliest stages of the case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if ATF agents contact me?
Politely decline to answer questions and contact an attorney immediately.
What is a federal target letter?
A target letter generally indicates that federal prosecutors believe you may be charged with a federal offense.
Can federal gun charges be dismissed?
Depending on the facts, charges may be challenged through suppression motions, constitutional arguments, evidentiary challenges, or negotiations.
What if the firearm belonged to someone else?
Ownership and possession are different concepts. Simply being near a firearm does not automatically establish criminal liability.
Can I be charged for possessing a Glock switch even if it was never installed?
Yes. Federal law treats these devices very seriously, and possession alone may result in criminal charges.
What happens if ATF seized my firearms?
Strict deadlines often apply to challenge administrative forfeiture proceedings. Immediate legal action may be necessary to protect your property.
Why Choose The Evans Law Firm?
Federal firearm cases demand experience, preparation, and an understanding of the unique rules that govern federal criminal prosecutions.
Our firm works to:
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Protect your constitutional rights
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Challenge unlawful searches
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Review ATF investigations
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Examine forensic and digital evidence
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Analyze sentencing enhancements
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Negotiate aggressively when appropriate
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Prepare every case for trial if necessary
We understand the life-changing consequences of a federal firearm conviction and are committed to protecting your freedom, your rights, and your future
Contact The Evans Law Firm Today
Federal firearm charges can carry life-changing consequences.
The earlier a defense begins, the greater the opportunity to protect your rights, challenge the government's evidence, and build a strong defense.
If you are facing allegations involving firearms, suppressors, Glock switches, trafficking, or any other federal gun offense, contact The Evans Law Firm today for a confidential consultation.
Your freedom, your rights, and your future are worth defending.
