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Colorado Springs Gun Crime Lawyer

Can I Be Arrested for Gun Ownership in Colorado?

The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution grants private citizens the right to keep and bear firearms. Although there is constant debate about the precise meaning of the amendment, gun ownership remains a vital part of many Americans’ personal identity. From hunting to sports to home security and personal protection, firearms serve many valid and necessary functions in American life. This is especially true in Colorado. As of 2026, 1/3 of all Coloradoans possess at least one firearm, while about 10% of the adult population of Colorado is armed at any given time. Because of the popularity of firearms ownership in Colorado, the state is especially concerned with enforcing laws regarding gun crime. Following the revelation that gun violence has increased in Colorado by almost 40% over the last decade, police have become especially aggressive in enforcing gun crime laws.

American citizens cannot be arrested simply for exercising their Second Amendment rights by owning a firearm. However, firearm owners or those illegally in possession of firearms can be arrested if they have committed any sort of gun-related crime. Under Colorado law, “gun crimes” encompass a wide array of criminal activities involving or relating to firearms. Depending on the circumstances, it can be easy for responsible gun owners to find themselves arrested and on the receiving end of gun crime charges. A gun crime conviction can lead to serious prison time, heavy fines, and the loss of your right to own and use firearms. This is why it’s vital for anyone facing gun crime charges in Colorado Springs to contact one of the dedicated and experienced attorneys at the Lux Law Firm, PLLC.

What are Gun Crimes in Colorado Springs?

The term “gun crimes” encompasses a wide array of crimes involving firearms or related to the illegal ownership of firearms. For example, owning a shotgun is perfectly legal under Colorado law. However, modifying that shotgun into a sawn-off weapon or making other alterations may constitute gun crimes. Some examples of gun crimes under Colorado law include, but are not necessarily limited to:

  • Possession of a Firearm Without Serial Numbers
  • Illegal Modification of a Firearm (Sawing Off, Removing Serial Numbers, etc.)
  • Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
  • Reckless Use of a Firearm (Celebratory Gunfire, Brandishing a Weapon, etc.)
  • Use of a Firearm While Drunk or Under the Influence of Drugs
  • Possession of a Firearm on School Grounds
  • Possession or Use of High-Capacity Magazines
  • Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without a Permit
  • Illegally Purchasing or Transferring Firearms

These are only a few potential examples of gun crimes under Colorado law. Any violation of the law involving a firearm can quickly lead to a gun crime charge, including violent crimes. Similarly, a routine traffic stop or police interaction unrelated to firearms can also result in unexpected gun crime charges. For example, say someone were pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence. During a field sobriety test, the officer notices that they are wearing a concealed weapon in a holster or in their waistband. If the person does not have a concealed carry permit or if the weapon has been modified in some illegal way, they could find themselves facing a gun crime charge in addition to a DUI.

This is only one potential scenario that might result in unexpected gun crime charges. It is much easier to be charged with a gun crime than most responsible gun owners realize. This is why, if you or a loved one has been arrested for or charged with a gun crime in Colorado Springs, contact one of our experienced gun crime attorneys.

What are the Potential Consequences of a Gun Crime Charge in Colorado Springs?

No single law in Colorado regulates “gun crimes.” Although gun crimes are all linked by their involvement of firearms, charges vary not only depending on the severity of the specific situation but also on the precise laws being broken. For example, a legal gun owner who carries a concealed weapon without a permit would probably face less severe charges than someone drunkenly engaging in celebratory gunfire, or a convicted felon found in possession of a firearm.

Some common penalties for gun crimes include, but are not necessarily limited to:

  • Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon: Up to 18 Months in Prison
  • Illegal Discharge of a Firearm: Up to Three Years in Prison
  • Unlawfully Carrying a Concealed Weapon: Up to Four Months in Jail or One Year in Prison
  • Possession of a High-Capacity Magazine: Up to Four Months in Jail and a $750 Fine
  • Possession of an Illegal Weapon: Up to 18 Months in Prison
  • Prohibited Use of a Weapon: Up to 3 years in Prison, Two Years of Parole, and up to $100,000 in Fines

These are only a few potential violations and their consequences. In some instances, a person may be charged with multiple gun crime violations in relation to the same incident. Let’s return to the above example of the person pulled over on suspicion of DUI who was found to be in possession of a concealed weapon without a permit. Suppose that weapon had its serial numbers filed off and was loaded with a high-capacity magazine. The person in question may now be facing three separate gun crime charges for a single incident. This is why if you or a loved one has been charged with one or multiple gun crimes, it’s essential you contact one of our experienced attorneys right away. Gun crime charges can add up quickly. Charges adding up usually mean potential prison time and fines adding up as well.

What are Defenses to Gun Crime Charges in Colorado?

There is no one-size-fits-all defense against gun crime charges. Because of the diversity and array of crimes that fall under the category of gun crimes, each case must be addressed and evaluated on its own unique merits. For example, suppose someone were arrested for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit. If that person were actually permitted to carry a concealed weapon and could produce their permit and other supporting evidence, it could lead to a dismissal or acquittal.

Other defenses may include unwilling or temporary possession. Say, for example, someone accidentally left a firearm in the home or vehicle of a convicted felon. The felon was then arrested following a routine traffic stop or during a parole visit when the gun was uncovered. If the person in question did not know the gun was in their possession, if it had been left unwillingly in their possession, or if they were attempting to return the weapon to its owner, they may be able to secure a dismissal of charges or an acquittal.

In the case of high-capacity magazines, you may be able to argue a grandfather defense. High-capacity magazines only became illegal on July 1, 2013. If you purchased a high-capacity magazine before July 1st, 2013, and can prove continuous ownership of the magazine, an attorney may be able to secure a dismissal or acquittal.

These are only a few potential scenarios and their defenses. One of our experienced attorneys can review your case and custom-tailor a defense based on your precise circumstances.

What Should I Do if I’m Facing Gun Crime Charges in Colorado Springs?

Every responsible American who wishes to own a gun should be allowed to safely purchase and operate firearms. However, strict gun crime laws must be in place to help prevent those who would irresponsibly use firearms for their own reckless purposes. Although these laws are only meant to prosecute irresponsible firearms owners, overcautious or overzealous policing can lead to average gun owners facing criminal charges. This means otherwise responsible, law-abiding citizens can find themselves facing serious criminal prosecution, prison time, and even the loss of their right to own and use firearms. Don’t let this happen to you.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for or charged with a gun crime in Colorado Springs, don’t hesitate to contact The Lux Law Firm, PLLC, right away. Our attorneys understand the complexity of Colorado’s gun laws and the severity of a potential conviction. We also understand there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to defending against gun crime charges. That’s why we custom-tailor a unique defense strategy for every individual client. We understand that no two cases are the same, which is why no two defense strategies should ever be the same. We’ll work with you every step of the way, beginning with strategies intended to secure a dismissal of charges against you. If necessary, we’ll put together a courtroom strategy to secure an acquittal.

Gun ownership is an American right. It’s very easy to lose that right under certain circumstances. Don’t let yourself become a target of aggressive policing or overzealous lawmakers. If you or a loved one has been arrested in Colorado Springs or the surrounding area, contact the Lux Law Firm, PLLC immediately at 719-451-7469 to schedule your free, no-obligation case evaluation.