Firearm Serial Number Attorney | Duluth MN

Fighting a Firearm Serial Number Accusation in Duluth with a Dedicated Defense Attorney

The moment you learn you’re facing a criminal charge, especially one involving firearms in a community like Duluth or anywhere in St. Louis County, your world shatters. The shock is visceral, the chaos immediate. You’re suddenly confronted with the immense power of the state, an entity that can fundamentally alter the course of your life. This isn’t merely a legal formality; it’s a direct assault on your freedom, your reputation, and your family’s future. The potential for long-term imprisonment, hefty fines, and the crushing weight of a felony conviction can feel overwhelming, threatening to dismantle everything you’ve painstakingly built.

In tight-knit towns like Proctor or Two Harbors, where everyone knows everyone, an accusation like this can spread like wildfire, damaging your standing and casting a shadow over your good name. Your job, your relationships, and your ability to live a normal life are all on the line. The initial fear can be paralyzing, leading to a profound sense of isolation. However, it is crucial to remember that an accusation is not a conviction. It is the beginning of a fight, not the end of a life. When you are up against the full force of the state, you need an advocate who is not afraid to stand and fight, who will forge a clear path forward through strength, strategy, and an unwavering commitment to your defense.

The Stakes: What a Conviction Truly Costs

A conviction for firearms; removal or alteration of a serial number carries severe and far-reaching consequences. This is not a minor infraction; it is a felony offense with profound implications that extend well beyond the immediate penalties, impacting every aspect of your future. Understanding these long-term repercussions is paramount to recognizing the critical nature of the battle ahead.

Your Permanent Criminal Record

A felony conviction for firearms; removal or alteration of a serial number will forever mar your criminal record. This isn’t a temporary blemish; it’s a permanent mark that follows you for life. This record is readily accessible during background checks conducted by potential employers, landlords, financial institutions, and even for volunteer opportunities. Such a record can effectively close doors to legitimate employment, especially in roles requiring trust or security clearances, severely limiting your earning potential and career trajectory. It can also make securing suitable housing an arduous, if not impossible, task, forcing you into undesirable living situations. In close communities like Bemidji or Cloquet, the societal stigma associated with a felony record can lead to ostracization and a profound sense of shame, making it incredibly difficult to rebuild your life and regain the respect of your peers.

Loss of Second Amendment Rights

One of the most immediate and devastating consequences of a felony conviction for firearms; removal or alteration of a serial number is the permanent loss of your Second Amendment rights. Under federal law, a conviction for any felony prohibits you from possessing firearms. This means you will never again be able to legally own, purchase, or possess a gun, regardless of its type or intended use. This is a fundamental loss of a constitutional right that many Americans cherish, and it impacts not just your ability to hunt or engage in shooting sports, but also your right to self-defense. This forfeiture is absolute and long-lasting, a constant reminder of the conviction’s reach.

Barriers to Employment and Housing

The implications of a felony conviction reverberate deeply into practical aspects of daily life, creating significant barriers to both employment and housing. Most employers are hesitant to hire individuals with felony convictions, viewing them as a liability or a risk. Even if a company is willing to consider you, many positions, particularly those involving sensitive information, financial responsibility, or interaction with the public, will be entirely off-limits. Similarly, securing safe and stable housing becomes a formidable challenge. Landlords often run extensive background checks, and a felony conviction is frequently an automatic disqualifier for rental applications. This can lead to instability, limited choices, and a struggle to find a place to call home, adding immense stress to an already difficult situation.

Impact on Professional Licenses and Reputation

For those holding professional licenses—whether as a tradesperson, healthcare provider, or in any licensed occupation—a felony conviction for firearms offenses can be catastrophic. Many licensing boards have strict moral turpitude clauses or direct prohibitions against individuals with felony criminal records, leading to the suspension or outright revocation of your license. This means the end of your career and the loss of years of education and training. Beyond official sanctions, your professional and personal reputation will suffer immense, potentially irreparable damage. The news of a felony conviction, especially one involving firearms, can quickly become public knowledge, eroding trust among colleagues, clients, and the community at large. In smaller communities across St. Louis County, where personal reputation is a cornerstone of professional success, this can lead to complete professional ruin and social isolation.

The Accusation: Understanding the State’s Case

When facing a criminal charge of this magnitude, understanding the precise nature of the state’s allegations is the first step toward building an effective defense. This section will demystify the legal jargon, clarifying exactly what the state must prove and how the relevant statutes apply to your situation.

What Does the State Allege? Firearms; Removal or Alteration of Serial Number Explained in Plain English

The state alleges that you committed one of three specific acts related to the identification of a firearm. Firstly, they may claim that you deliberately obliterated, removed, changed, or altered the serial number or other identification on a firearm. This means you actively tampered with the unique identifier that allows the firearm to be traced. Secondly, the accusation could be that you knowingly received or possessed a firearm where its serial number or other identification had already been obliterated, removed, changed, or altered by someone else. In this scenario, the focus is on your possession of a firearm that you knew was illegally modified. Thirdly, the state might allege that you received or possessed a firearm that simply does not have a serial number at all. This applies to so-called “ghost guns” or homemade firearms that lack the required identification.

The core of this law revolves around the importance of firearm identification for tracing and regulatory purposes. The “serial number or other identification” is defined specifically to include the serial number and other relevant information required by federal law for firearm identification, often referring to manufacturer details and model information. Essentially, the state views any act that disrupts the traceability of a firearm as a serious offense, whether it’s active alteration or passive possession of an untraceable weapon.

The Law on the Books: Minnesota Statute 609.667

Minnesota Statute 609.667 explicitly criminalizes acts that hinder the identification and traceability of firearms. This statute is crucial for law enforcement in their efforts to track firearms involved in crimes and maintain a regulated environment for firearm ownership.

609.667 FIREARMS; REMOVAL OR ALTERATION OF SERIAL NUMBER.

Whoever commits any of the following acts may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than five years or to payment of a fine of not more than $10,000, or both:

(1) obliterates, removes, changes, or alters the serial number or other identification of a firearm;

(2) receives or possesses a firearm, the serial number or other identification of which has been obliterated, removed, changed, or altered; or

(3) receives or possesses a firearm that is not identified by a serial number.

As used in this section, “serial number or other identification” means the serial number and other information required under United States Code, title 26, section 5842, for the identification of firearms.

History: 1994 c 636 art 3 s 22

The Prosecution’s Burden: Elements of Firearms; Removal or Alteration of Serial Number

In any criminal proceeding, the burden of proof rests entirely with the prosecution. They must present sufficient evidence to convince a judge or jury that you are guilty of every single element of the alleged crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If the state falters on even one of these elements, their case fails, and you cannot be convicted. A dedicated defense attorney will meticulously scrutinize every piece of evidence and every aspect of the state’s argument, seeking to identify where they fall short in meeting this rigorous burden.

Whoever Commits Any of the Following Acts: The prosecution must definitively prove that you, the accused, performed one of the three specific actions outlined in the statute. This is a fundamental element, requiring direct or circumstantial evidence linking you to the alleged act. If they cannot definitively place you as the actor, or prove your knowing involvement, this element is not met. Your attorney will question the reliability of any identification and the chain of custody for evidence.
Obliterates, Removes, Changes, or Alters the Serial Number or Other Identification of a Firearm: If the state is pursuing a charge under clause (1), they must prove that you intentionally and actively engaged in an act that destroyed, took away, modified, or otherwise manipulated the firearm’s unique identifying mark. This requires demonstrating your intent and the physical act of alteration. The prosecution would need to show that the firearm’s original identification was present and subsequently modified by you.
Receives or Possesses a Firearm, the Serial Number or Other Identification of Which Has Been Obliterated, Removed, Changed, or Altered: Under clause (2), the prosecution must prove two things: first, that you received or were in possession of a firearm; and second, that you knew or should have known that its serial number or other identification had been tampered with. Simply possessing such a firearm without knowledge of its altered state may not be enough for a conviction, and an attorney would vigorously challenge the element of “knowing possession.”
Receives or Possesses a Firearm That Is Not Identified by a Serial Number: For a charge under clause (3), the state must prove that you received or were in possession of a firearm that, by its very nature, lacks a serial number or other required identification. This often applies to homemade or 3D-printed firearms. The prosecution needs to establish both your possession and the absence of the federally required identification on the weapon.
“Serial Number or Other Identification” as Defined by Federal Law: The prosecution must establish that the identification in question falls under the federal definition cited in the statute (United States Code, title 26, section 5842). This means it’s not just any number, but the specific identifying marks required for legal firearm tracking. A defense attorney may challenge whether the missing or altered information truly constitutes the “serial number or other identification” as legally defined.

The Potential Outcome: Penalties for a Firearms; Removal or Alteration of Serial Number Conviction

A conviction for firearms; removal or alteration of a serial number in Minnesota is a felony offense, carrying severe and life-altering penalties. The gravity of these potential outcomes underscores the critical need for a robust and aggressive legal defense.

The statute specifies that whoever commits any of these acts “may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than five years or to payment of a fine of not more than $10,000, or both.” This means a judge has the discretion to impose a prison sentence, a substantial fine, or both, depending on the specifics of the case, your prior criminal history, and other aggravating or mitigating factors. A five-year prison sentence is a significant loss of freedom that can devastate a person’s life, severing ties with family, disrupting careers, and creating immense hardship. Beyond the statutory maximums, a felony conviction itself triggers a cascade of collateral consequences, including the permanent loss of firearm rights, difficulties with employment and housing, inability to vote, and damage to your reputation that can be incredibly difficult to overcome. The financial burden of a $10,000 fine, coupled with court costs and legal fees, can also be crippling, leading to long-term financial distress.

The Battle Plan: Building Your Strategic Defense

An accusation is not a conviction. This immutable truth serves as the bedrock of every powerful defense. When the state brings a charge as serious as firearms; removal or alteration of a serial number, it is not a declaration of guilt but an opening move in a legal contest. The fight for your future begins the moment the accusation is made, and you must meet it with a proactive, strategic counter-offensive.

An Accusation is Not a Conviction: The Fight Starts Now

The state’s case, no matter how meticulously presented or confidently asserted, is merely a set of allegations that demand rigorous testing and unwavering challenge. Prosecutors operate with a narrative in mind, seeking to persuade the court of your culpability. It is the uncompromising role of a dedicated defense attorney to dismantle that narrative, expose its inherent weaknesses, and construct a compelling, truthful account that reflects your side of the story. This is not a passive process of reacting to the prosecution’s moves; it is an assertive, strategic campaign to protect your rights, your freedom, and your reputation.

Every piece of evidence the state attempts to introduce—be it police reports, forensic analyses, witness testimonies, or alleged confessions—will undergo intense scrutiny. An attorney will meticulously examine these elements for inconsistencies, procedural errors, constitutional violations, or outright factual inaccuracies. This is a fight for your life, your livelihood, and your standing in your community, whether that’s Duluth, Bemidji, or any other part of Northern Minnesota. It demands a defense forged with strength, strategic foresight, and an unyielding commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. This battle will be waged on your terms, with your interests relentlessly championed at every stage.

How a Firearms; Removal or Alteration of Serial Number Charge Can Be Challenged in Court

A charge of firearms; removal or alteration of a serial number is serious, but it is far from an open-and-shut case for the prosecution. A skilled defense attorney has numerous strategies to challenge the state’s allegations and protect your rights.

Lack of Knowledge or Intent

For charges involving possession of an altered firearm (clause 2) or an unmarked firearm (clause 3), the prosecution often needs to prove you knew about the alteration or the lack of a serial number.

No Knowledge of Alteration: If you genuinely did not know that the serial number on a firearm you possessed had been altered, then a key element of the charge under clause (2) may be missing. A defense attorney would present evidence to demonstrate your lack of awareness, such as how you acquired the firearm, its condition at acquisition, and any steps you took to inspect it.
No Knowledge of Missing Serial Number: Similarly, if you possessed a firearm that lacked a serial number but were unaware of this fact, or believed it was legally exempt or marked elsewhere, your attorney would argue against the element of knowing possession under clause (3). This is especially relevant for older firearms or those passed down through generations.
Accidental Possession: In some cases, a person might unknowingly or accidentally come into possession of a firearm with an altered or missing serial number. For example, if a firearm was left in a car you borrowed, or was part of a collection you inherited without full knowledge of each item’s specifics.
Mistake of Fact: If you reasonably believed the firearm was legally compliant, even if it wasn’t, this could constitute a mistake of fact defense, negating the required intent or knowledge. This would require demonstrating the basis for your reasonable belief.

Absence of Possession

A fundamental element for charges under clauses (2) and (3) is your actual or constructive possession of the firearm.

Lack of Actual Possession: The prosecution must prove you had direct physical control over the firearm. If the firearm was merely in your vicinity but not under your immediate control, actual possession may not be established. For instance, if it was in a common area shared by multiple people.
Lack of Constructive Possession: Constructive possession means you had knowledge of the firearm and the ability and intent to exercise control over it, even if not physically holding it. A defense attorney can argue that while the firearm was present, you lacked either the knowledge or the intent to control it. Mere proximity to a firearm does not automatically establish constructive possession.
Temporary or Fleeting Presence: If your contact with the firearm was fleeting, involuntary, or merely incidental, an attorney could argue that it does not constitute the kind of “possession” intended by the statute. For example, briefly handling a firearm someone else handed you.
Third-Party Ownership/Control: If the firearm demonstrably belonged to someone else and was under their sole control, even if in a shared space, the defense can argue you were not in possession. This often requires identifying the true owner or person in control.

Challenging the “Alteration” or “Absence”

The state must prove that the firearm’s identification was indeed altered or completely absent, and that the alteration meets the legal definition.

Serial Number Intact but Obscured: If the serial number is present but merely obscured by dirt, rust, or a minor cosmetic modification that doesn’t fundamentally alter or remove it, a defense can argue that the statute’s requirement of “obliteration, removal, change, or alteration” has not been met.
Damage, Not Alteration: If the serial number is unreadable due to legitimate damage (e.g., from an accident, fire, or corrosion) rather than intentional alteration, this is a strong defense. The intent to obliterate is crucial for clause (1).
Legitimate Manufacturing Absence: For older or certain types of firearms, a serial number may not have been required at the time of manufacture. If the firearm legitimately predates serial number requirements or falls under an exemption, the “not identified by a serial number” element may fail.
Other Identification Present: The statute refers to “serial number or other identification.” If the serial number is altered, but other identifying information required by federal law (e.g., manufacturer name, model) is still present and legible, an attorney could argue the firearm is still “identified.”

Constitutional Violations (Unlawful Search and Seizure)

Evidence obtained in violation of your Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures can be suppressed, potentially leading to the dismissal of the entire case.

No Probable Cause for Stop/Search: If law enforcement stopped you or searched your property without a warrant or sufficient probable cause, any firearm or evidence found during that unlawful interaction could be excluded from court.
Invalid Search Warrant: If a search warrant was issued but contained errors, was based on insufficient information, or was executed improperly (e.g., outside the scope of the warrant, or at the wrong location), the evidence seized may be suppressed.
Coerced Consent: If police claim you consented to a search, but that consent was not freely and voluntarily given (e.g., under duress, threat, or misrepresentation), then the search was unlawful.
Lack of Miranda Warnings: If you were in police custody and questioned about the firearm without being properly read your Miranda rights, any statements you made could be deemed inadmissible in court.

Defense in Action: Scenarios in Northern Minnesota

Applying legal defenses to real-world situations illuminates their power. Here are localized scenarios in Northern Minnesota demonstrating how an attorney fights a Firearms; Removal or Alteration of Serial Number charge.

Scenario in Duluth: The Inherited Firearm

In Duluth, a local resident inherits a collection of firearms from a deceased relative. Among them is an older handgun with a heavily corroded frame, making the serial number illegible. During a voluntary police contact for an unrelated matter, the firearm is discovered, and the individual is charged with possessing a firearm with an altered serial number.

In this scenario, a defense attorney would argue a clear lack of intent and knowledge. The attorney would present evidence of the firearm’s age, the extent of the corrosion indicating natural wear rather than deliberate alteration, and documentation of the inheritance. The defense would contend that the individual acquired the firearm legitimately, had no knowledge of the illegible serial number’s condition being due to alteration, and certainly did not personally “obliterate, remove, change, or alter” it. The focus would be on demonstrating that the condition was due to environmental factors over time, not criminal intent.

Scenario in Bemidji: The Yard Sale Find

A Bemidji resident purchases what they believe to be an antique firearm at a yard sale, unaware that its serial number had been crudely filed off. The firearm is later discovered during a traffic stop. The individual is charged with possessing a firearm with an altered serial number.

Here, the defense would center on the lack of knowledge and the “receipt” element of the crime. The attorney would argue that the individual genuinely believed they were purchasing a legal antique and had no way of knowing, through reasonable inspection, that the serial number was altered. The defense would highlight the nature of a yard sale purchase, where formal checks are not customary, and present the individual’s lack of prior criminal history as supporting evidence of their innocent intent. The attorney would emphasize that “knowing possession” of an altered firearm is required, and simple unknowing acquisition does not meet that threshold.

Scenario in Cloquet: The Shared Residence

In Cloquet, law enforcement executes a search warrant at a shared residence targeting another individual. During the search, a firearm with a defaced serial number is found hidden in a common area. While the other individual is the primary suspect, the resident is also charged with possession due to being present in the home.

The defense attorney would fight this by challenging the element of possession, particularly constructive possession. The attorney would argue that the firearm belonged solely to the other individual and was hidden in a way that the client had no knowledge of its presence or control over it. Evidence might include statements from the actual owner, the location of the firearm (e.g., deep inside another person’s personal belongings), and the client’s consistent denial of knowledge. The attorney would assert that mere presence in a residence where a prohibited item is found does not automatically equate to knowing possession.

Scenario in Two Harbors: The Custom Build

A hobbyist in Two Harbors builds a firearm from a kit, but due to an oversight, fails to properly engrave a serial number as might be required for a homemade firearm. The firearm is later found by police during a separate incident, and the hobbyist is charged with possessing a firearm that is not identified by a serial number.

The defense would focus on the specific intent and the misunderstanding of complex regulations. The attorney would argue that the client, a hobbyist, had no criminal intent to create an untraceable firearm but simply misunderstood the precise requirements for marking homemade firearms. The defense would present evidence of the client’s legitimate interest in gunsmithing, the open nature of their hobby, and their lack of prior criminal record, distinguishing this oversight from a deliberate attempt to evade identification. The attorney would seek to mitigate the charge by demonstrating a lack of malicious intent, potentially arguing for a lesser offense or a pathway to resolve the issue through proper marking.

The Advocate: Why a Dedicated Duluth Defense Attorney is Essential

When you are facing a charge as serious as firearms; removal or alteration of a serial number, the stakes are immeasurably high. This is not a situation for half-measures or passive legal commentary. You need a singular, relentless advocate—a fighter who stands between you and the full might of the state. A dedicated Duluth defense attorney is not merely a legal representative; they are your unyielding champion, your strategic commander in the courtroom, and your voice when you feel silenced.

Countering the Resources of the State

The state operates with seemingly limitless resources. Prosecutors have access to a vast network of investigators, forensic laboratories, and legal support, all focused on building an airtight case against you. They are armed with the power of the government, and they will use every tool at their disposal to secure a conviction. Attempting to navigate this complex system alone is like stepping onto a battlefield without a weapon. A dedicated defense attorney is your essential counterweight. They possess the intricate legal knowledge, the seasoned experience, and the strategic foresight necessary to dissect the state’s evidence, expose its vulnerabilities, and challenge every assertion. They will meticulously scrutinize police reports, question forensic findings, and rigorously cross-examine witnesses, ensuring that the formidable power of the state is met with an equally formidable, unwavering defense.

Strategic Command of the St. Louis County Courts

Navigating the local court systems in St. Louis County—from the bustling dockets of Duluth to the quieter proceedings in Two Harbors, Proctor, Cloquet, or Bemidji—demands far more than just a theoretical understanding of the law. It requires an intimate, street-level command of the specific procedures, the unspoken rules, and the unique personalities that shape the local judicial landscape. A dedicated defense attorney possesses this crucial strategic command. They know the tendencies of the local judges, the negotiation styles of the St. Louis County prosecutors, and the subtle nuances that can make or break a case in this jurisdiction. This invaluable local insight allows them to anticipate challenges, craft precisely tailored legal arguments, and skillfully guide your case through the particular pathways of the local justice system, always with your best interests as the guiding principle.

Fighting for Your Story, Not Just the Police Report

The police report is not a comprehensive or unbiased account of events; it is a snapshot, often incomplete and skewed by the perspective of law enforcement, designed primarily to support a case against you. Your life, your intentions, and the full, complex context of the situation are frequently omitted or misinterpreted within these official documents. A dedicated defense attorney understands that your story—your truth—is paramount. They will not passively accept the narrative presented by the police report. Instead, they will embark on an exhaustive independent investigation, gathering all relevant evidence, interviewing potential witnesses, and meticulously piecing together the complete, accurate picture. Their unwavering objective is to ensure that your voice is heard, that your side of the story is presented with compelling clarity and power, and that the court perceives you as a complex individual, not merely a defendant reduced to a police incident number.

An Unwavering Commitment to a Winning Result

From the instant you engage their services, a dedicated defense attorney is driven by a singular, unwavering objective: to secure the absolute best possible outcome for your situation. This goes far beyond merely processing paperwork; it is about an unyielding commitment to achieving a winning result, whether that means a complete dismissal of the charges, the negotiation of a significantly reduced plea agreement, or the presentation of a powerful, persuasive defense at trial. They will fight tirelessly on your behalf, relentlessly exploring every available legal avenue, challenging every piece of the prosecution’s case, and never succumbing to external pressure. This profound commitment extends beyond the legal battle itself, encompassing the vital emotional and practical support you will need throughout this incredibly challenging and uncertain period. Their unwavering dedication stands as your most potent asset in the formidable fight for your freedom and your future.

Your Questions Answered

What does “obliterates, removes, changes, or alters” mean?

This refers to any action that intentionally destroys, takes away, modifies, or otherwise manipulates the original serial number or other identifying marks on a firearm. This could involve grinding, filing, engraving over, or chemically removing the numbers.

What is the difference between “receiving” and “possessing” a firearm?

“Receiving” implies taking ownership or control of a firearm, even briefly. “Possessing” implies having actual physical control or constructive control (knowledge and ability to control) over the firearm, regardless of how it was acquired.

What is a “serial number or other identification” under this law?

It refers to the unique serial number and other specific identifying information (like manufacturer, model, and caliber) required by federal law (United States Code, title 26, section 5842) for firearm identification.

Does this law apply to antique firearms?

It depends. If an antique firearm genuinely did not have a serial number required at the time of its manufacture, then clause (3) may not apply. However, if an antique firearm did originally have a serial number that was subsequently altered, clauses (1) or (2) could still apply.

What if I bought the firearm from someone else and didn’t know the serial number was altered?

If you genuinely did not know the serial number was altered, a defense based on lack of knowledge or intent for clause (2) may be viable. The prosecution must prove you knew or should have known about the alteration.

Can I be charged if the firearm was in my house but belonged to someone else?

Yes, you can potentially be charged under a theory of “constructive possession” if the prosecution can prove you had knowledge of the firearm’s presence and the ability and intent to exercise control over it. However, this is a highly defensible area.

What if the serial number was too rusted to read, not intentionally removed?

If the illegibility is due to legitimate damage like rust or corrosion and not intentional alteration, then clause (1) regarding active alteration would not apply. A defense attorney would present evidence of the firearm’s condition and the lack of intent.

Is it illegal to build my own firearm without a serial number?

Generally, if you build a firearm for personal use and not for sale, a serial number may not be federally required. However, state laws can vary, and if you later transfer or sell it, or if it falls under specific definitions (like an NFA item), federal marking rules apply. Clause (3) of this Minnesota statute criminalizes possession of a firearm “not identified by a serial number.” This is a complex area, and legal advice is crucial.

What is the maximum sentence for this crime?

The maximum sentence is imprisonment for not more than five years, or a fine of not more than $10,000, or both.

Will I lose my right to vote if convicted?

In Minnesota, a felony conviction can result in the temporary loss of voting rights until you have completed your sentence, including any probation or parole.

Can this charge be reduced to a lesser offense?

With a strong defense, it may be possible to negotiate with the prosecution for a reduction to a lesser offense, such as a gross misdemeanor or misdemeanor, depending on the specifics of the case and your prior record.

How quickly should I contact an attorney?

Immediately. The sooner an attorney can begin investigating your case, gathering evidence, and protecting your rights, the stronger your defense will be. Every moment counts.

What evidence might the prosecution use against me?

The prosecution might use the firearm itself, forensic analysis of the alteration, police reports, witness statements, any admissions you may have made, and your prior criminal history (if any).

Can I still possess other firearms while this charge is pending?

If you are released on bail, the terms of your release may include conditions regarding firearm possession. A felony charge for this offense could also trigger federal prohibitions, even before conviction. It is critical to discuss this with your attorney immediately.

What is the role of forensic analysis in these cases?

Forensic analysis can determine if a serial number was indeed obliterated or altered, and sometimes even recover original numbers. It can also identify the type of firearm and whether it was manufactured without a serial number.