Firearms Possession Lawyer Tompkins County, NY
If you have been arrested or charged with a firearms possession offense in Tompkins County, New York, the legal consequences can be life-altering. New York has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation, and a conviction can bring jail or prison time, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of the right to own a firearm. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team provide experienced criminal defense to individuals facing these charges in Tompkins County. We understand how the local courts operate—from the Tompkins County Criminal Court in Ithaca, which handles misdemeanor-level firearms matters, to the Tompkins County Supreme Court, where more serious felony cases are adjudicated. Our New York location serves clients throughout the county. If you need a firearms possession lawyer in Tompkins County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Firearms Possession Means in Tompkins County, NY
A firearms possession charge in Tompkins County arises when law enforcement believes a person is carrying, transporting, or controlling a firearm in violation of New York Penal Law. The specific offense may range from a misdemeanor—for instance, possession of a firearm without a valid license—to a violent felony when the possession is connected to another crime or committed by a person prohibited from having a gun. The classification of the charge drives the potential penalties and the court in which the case will be heard.
In Tompkins County, misdemeanor firearms cases are brought in the local criminal court, while felony charges are prosecuted in New York Supreme Court with a grand jury indictment. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for many misdemeanors and non-violent felonies, meaning some defendants are released on their own recognizance or with conditions. However, firearms charges that are considered violent felonies may still result in bail being set. For first-time offenders, New York also offers the Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD)—a disposition that can lead to the charges being dismissed after a period of good behavior. Understanding these procedures is essential, and an experienced defense attorney can explain how they apply to your specific situation.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Firearms Possession Cases
When you engage Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a firearms possession charge in Tompkins County, the defense process begins with a thorough review of the evidence. They assess the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the firearm, the accuracy of any witness statements, and the specific licensing status of the defendant. Often, a charge may be challenged if the firearm was legally possessed or if there are procedural errors in the stop or arrest.
As a former prosecutor, Mr. Sris understands how the prosecution builds its case. He and his Of Counsel work to identify weaknesses in the evidence, negotiate with the district attorney’s office for a reduction of charges, or seek a dismissal through pre-trial motions. If an ACD is available and appropriate, they can advocate for that outcome. In more serious felony matters, they prepare a comprehensive defense for trial. Throughout the process, they advise you on the potential long-term consequences—such as firearms disability or immigration effects—so you can make informed decisions. Every case is different, and the approach is tailored to the facts, the charges, and the goals of the client.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. with a background as a former prosecutor, he has a thorough understanding of criminal litigation. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. In 2019, he testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His Of Counsel team—experienced criminal defense attorneys engaged through Excella—bring extensive collective experience to the defense of clients in Tompkins County. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented case results across all practice areas since 1997. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for firearms possession in Tompkins County, NY?
The penalties for a firearms possession conviction in Tompkins County depend on the classification of the offense. A Class A misdemeanor, such as certain unlicensed possession charges, can carry up to one year in jail. Felony charges carry state prison time. A Class E felony, for example, can result in 1 to 4 years, while more serious felony classes may lead to significantly longer sentences, including life imprisonment for the most aggravated offenses. In addition to incarceration, a conviction can bring fines, a criminal record, and a permanent loss of the right to possess a firearm under state and federal law. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer if I’m charged with a firearms offense in NY?
Yes, you should have an experienced criminal defense attorney if you are charged with a firearms offense in New York. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time and a criminal record. An attorney can challenge the legality of the search, assert any applicable defenses, and negotiate with the prosecution for a reduced charge or a dismissal through an ACD where available. Given the serious consequences, representing yourself is extremely risky. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I’m arrested for illegal gun possession in Tompkins County?
After an arrest for illegal gun possession in Tompkins County, you should remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. Do not make any statements to law enforcement about the firearm or the circumstances of the arrest. Any information you provide can be used against you. Contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Early intervention can help protect your rights and may influence bail, charges, and the direction of the case. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can I get a gun possession charge dismissed in Tompkins County?
A dismissal of a firearms possession charge in Tompkins County is possible if certain conditions are met. For first-time offenders, New York’s Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) may be an option. Under an ACD, the charges are adjourned for a period—commonly 6 to 12 months—and if the defendant avoids new arrests and meets any court-ordered conditions, the charges are dismissed. Additionally, if the evidence was obtained through an unconstitutional search or seizure, a motion to suppress may lead to a dismissal. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether a dismissal is feasible in your case.
How long does a firearms possession case take in Tompkins County?
The timeline for a firearms possession case in Tompkins County varies depending on the complexity of the matter and the court’s calendar. A misdemeanor case may be resolved in a few months if it goes to trial quickly, while a felony case that proceeds through indictment and motion practice can take longer. Negotiations with the prosecution may also affect the pace. During the process, your attorney will work to achieve the most favorable resolution as efficiently as possible. To discuss the timeline that might apply to your situation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
For more on criminal defense in other New York counties, see our pages for Criminal Lawyer in Manhattan, Criminal Lawyer in Brooklyn, and Criminal Lawyer in Nassau County.
Authoritative primary sources: New York Penal Law · New York Criminal Procedure Law · Tompkins County Supreme Court
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Results may vary.