Know the Law Inside Out
Pennsylvania's Uniform Firearms Act and federal gun laws interact in ways that can trap the unwary. We know both bodies of law and how to use them in your defense.
Criminal defense
Firearm Offense Defense in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania and federal firearm laws are among the most complex in criminal law. A conviction can mean mandatory prison time and a permanent loss of your Second Amendment rights. Dutko & Chwiecko Trial Attorneys defend clients facing gun charges throughout Berks, Lehigh, and Schuylkill counties.
Challenge the Stop & Search
Many firearm charges arise from traffic stops or searches. We examine whether law enforcement had the legal authority to stop you and search for a weapon.
Protect Your Rights
A firearm conviction can permanently strip you of your right to own or possess a weapon. We fight to protect not just your freedom but your constitutional rights.
Firearm Charges We Defend
Carrying Without a License
Carrying a concealed firearm without a valid license to carry is a felony in Pennsylvania. We examine the circumstances of the stop and the search for grounds to challenge the charge.
Persons Not to Possess
Charges under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6105 carry mandatory minimum sentences. We challenge the predicate conviction, the possession evidence, and the constitutionality of the charge.
Possession of Prohibited Offensive Weapons
Charges involving prohibited weapons require careful analysis of the specific item and the circumstances of possession. We build a defense tailored to the facts.
Firearms Not to Be Carried on Public Streets
Philadelphia and other jurisdictions have specific restrictions. We analyze the applicable law and the facts of your case to identify every available defense.
Straw Purchase / Illegal Transfer
Straw purchase charges are prosecuted at both the state and federal level. We defend clients against allegations of illegal firearms transfers and straw purchases.
Altering / Obliterating Serial Numbers
These charges carry serious federal and state penalties. We examine the evidence and challenge the prosecution's proof of knowledge and intent.
Federal Firearms Charges
Federal gun charges carry mandatory minimums and are prosecuted aggressively. Our attorneys are admitted to the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and prepared to defend federal cases.
Firearms Used in Other Crimes
When a firearm is alleged to have been used in another offense, the penalties increase dramatically. We defend the underlying charge and challenge the firearms enhancement.
Firearm Cases Demand Experienced Counsel
Pennsylvania firearm charges often carry mandatory minimum sentences, meaning a judge has little discretion at sentencing if you are convicted. The only way to avoid these minimums is to win — either at a suppression hearing, at trial, or through a negotiated resolution that avoids the mandatory-minimum charge.
Attorney Dutko's background as a Lehigh County Deputy Sheriff and Kutztown University police officer gives him firsthand knowledge of how law enforcement conducts stops, searches, and arrests in firearm cases. He knows what officers are trained to do — and when they cross the line.
Attorney Dutko is also admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and our team is prepared to defend both state and federal firearm charges. We have the experience to fight for you at every level of the court system.
Charged with a Firearm Offense? Call Us Now.
Firearm charges move quickly and the consequences are severe. Contact Dutko & Chwiecko for a confidential consultation as soon as possible.