Facing Charges for Possession or Use of Prohibited Weapons in Rockingham County? Our Criminal Defense Attorney Is Ready to Defend You
If you’re facing charges for the possession or use of prohibited weapons in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, you need a criminal defense attorney who understands how serious and life-changing these allegations can be. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our team focuses on providing strong, personalized legal representation in Weapons Defense cases.
Our firm includes experienced trial lawyers and a former prosecutor, giving us insight into how the system builds and prosecutes weapons cases in New Hampshire. That insider perspective allows us to develop more strategic, effective defenses for our clients.
Whether you were charged in Brentwood, Candia, Derry, Hampton, Portsmouth, or Salem, our team is ready to help you protect your rights and your future.
Understanding Prohibited Weapons in New Hampshire
New Hampshire law outlines specific weapons and devices that are classified as prohibited. Under RSA 159:3 and RSA 159:24, individuals are not allowed to own, possess, manufacture, or use certain types of weapons, including:
- Silencers or suppressors
- Sawed-off shotguns
- Explosive or incendiary devices
- Blackjacks or metal knuckles
- Certain switchblades or gravity knives
- Improvised weapons intended for unlawful use
Being charged with possessing or using any of these weapons—knowingly or unknowingly—can lead to criminal prosecution and penalties such as jail time, fines, or restrictions on future firearm ownership.
Our role is to analyze the facts, challenge the state’s evidence, and build a defense that protects your rights.
Why Choose Our Rockingham County Criminal Defense Attorney Team?
We know the local courts, judges, and how prosecutors handle weapons charges in places like Portsmouth, Derry, and Brentwood, giving us a strategic edge. With a former prosecutor on our team, we understand how the state builds its case and how to exploit its weaknesses. We don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach; we tailor every defense to your unique situation. From arrest to trial, you’ll work closely with your attorney, and we’ll keep you informed because we know this is about more than a case—it’s your future.
Potential Penalties for Prohibited Weapons Charges
Depending on the circumstances, a charge involving a prohibited weapon may be classified as a Class A misdemeanor or a felony. The following elements affect how serious the charge is:
- The type of weapon involved
- Whether the weapon was used or just possessed
- Your criminal history
- Where the weapon was found (e.g., in a vehicle, near a school)
A conviction could result in:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines
- Probation or parole
- Loss of the right to own firearms
- A permanent criminal record
Being charged, however, does not imply you are guilty. With the right criminal defense attorney, you may be able to avoid these outcomes through a strong legal defense, negotiated plea, or dismissal.
Weapons Defense Strategy: What We Do
When you hire us to defend you in a possession or use of prohibited weapons case, we begin by conducting a full review of:
- The police report and arrest details
- Whether the search and seizure were lawful
- The specific weapon in question
- Your intent and knowledge of the item
- Any constitutional rights that may have been violated
From there, we build a defense aimed at reducing or eliminating the charges. This may include challenging the classification of the weapon, suppressing evidence, or negotiating for reduced charges when appropriate.
Contact Us to Set Up a Strategy Session
Weapons charges can have long-lasting consequences. The sooner you contact a skilled criminal defense attorney in Rockingham County, the better your chances of protecting your future. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we’re here to help you move forward.
Contact us now to set up a strategy session and learn how we can help defend your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a prohibited weapon in New Hampshire?
Prohibited weapons in New Hampshire include silencers, sawed-off shotguns, metal knuckles, and certain knives, among others, as listed under RSA 159. Possessing or using these items can result in criminal charges.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the weapon was illegal?
Yes. Lack of knowledge is not always a defense, but it may be a mitigating factor. Your attorney can explore whether the prosecution can prove that you knowingly possessed the prohibited item.
What should I do if I’ve been arrested for possession of a prohibited weapon?
Do not speak to the police without an attorney present. Contact a Rockingham County criminal defense attorney immediately to begin preparing your defense.
Are these charges felonies or misdemeanors?
Depending on the situation and the particular weapon, yes. Some charges are misdemeanors, but others—especially involving use or intent—can be felonies.
Do I need a lawyer if it’s my first offense?
Absolutely. Even a first offense can carry serious consequences and create a permanent record. Having a defense lawyer helps ensure your rights are protected and may result in a more favorable outcome.