On March 27, 2023, Nashville, Tennessee was the location of the latest school shooting tragedy. The shooter killed three 9-year-old children and three adults. The shooter had 2 assault-type rifles and a handgun. These were the three used of seven legally purchased firearms owned by the shooter. The Nashville Covenant School shooting is a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of gun violence in the United States. Clearly, responsible gun ownership was not something the shooter cared about.
As a Criminal Defense attorney in Murfreesboro, TN, David Clarke of the Clarke Law firm has defended clients in gun-related criminal offenses. He has seen his sad share of situations when gun owners acted irresponsibly as well as being ignorant of the laws of Tennessee. While Tennessee argues over ways to control gun violence, there are going to still be cases where those arrested for a gun-related crime will need to be defended as is their right (the Sixth Amendment).
Responsible Gun Ownership
Many Tennesseans take the decision to “keep and bear arms” as a serious choice that comes with great responsibility. A school shooting like this one in Tennessee is abhorrent. All gun owners are required to know and follow the law. It is the breaking of the law that can land you in trouble and bring great tragedy to others. If you own a gun, be a responsible gun owner but also think about these things:
- Store weapons safely. Check frequently to make sure no one has accessed your safe storage.
- Know Tennessee Laws Know how and where you are allowed to carry, possess, or use your weapons. Understand that in Tennessee there are mandatory punishments for certain crimes. Mandatory minimum sentences are generally those sentences where prison is required. In Tennessee, all Felony crimes have mandatory minimums. The judge presiding is required to impose, as specified by statute, a sentence of a certain minimum term of imprisonment.
- Do Not Talk – If charged/arrested, for any reason, do not make any statements without your lawyer. It is tempting to think you can reason with or explain your use or possession of a weapon to the police. That is likely not true. It is always better to get a lawyer. Exercise your Miranda Rights.
Call a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Because of gun laws in Tennessee, there are many ways a person can get into big trouble with the misuse of a firearm. If you are carrying a weapon in a location you are not allowed to, such as a school or polling place, you can be arrested. If you are armed with a weapon during the commission of a crime such as a drug trafficking, assault, or a robbery, then having a weapon, even if not used or brandished during the crime, will add more charges and heighten the original crime.
For example, there is a difference between the crimes of Assault and Assault with a Deadly Weapon. Most assaults are considered misdemeanors, but Assault with a Deadly Weapon is a felony.
It is critical to make sure you are being represented by an attorney who is well-experienced in Tennessee laws and in criminal defense strategies.
David Clarke – Top Criminal Defense Attorney, Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Attorney David Clarke aggressively defends his clients against state and federal criminal charges and does everything in his power to keep them out of prison by proving their innocence and protecting their futures.
Attorney Clarke states, “Our firm can thoroughly investigate your arrest, gather crucial evidence, and analyze evidence collected by police, and work together with professional crime reconstruction experts to build an effective defense strategy for you.” As an experienced trial attorney, Attorney Clarke has a comprehensive understanding of the courtroom. He knows how to work with the prosecution to get the best outcome possible.
If you have been charged with a crime, including one involving the use of a firearm, please contact our firm immediately. Remember do not make any statements to the police. Wait till you have your attorney present and we will ensure the questions are okay for you to answer. Not speaking is not an admission of guilt. Call 615-769-6299; Se Habla Espanol 615-809-1255
