Need a Gun Crimes Defense Attorney in Portland?

Oregon recognizes the right to bear arms, but being charged with a gun crime can place that right—and your freedom—at serious risk. In Portland, prosecutors aggressively pursue firearm-related offenses, especially when they involve allegations of unlawful possession, use, or the presence of a weapon during another crime. Even if you lawfully own a gun, misunderstanding or misapplying the law can lead to severe consequences.

At the Law Office of Mike Arnold, our Portland gun crimes defense attorneys understand the nuances of state and federal firearm laws. We take an aggressive, strategic approach to defending against gun charges, protecting your rights, challenging the government’s case, and securing the best possible outcome—whether that means a reduction in charges, dismissal, or a hard-fought acquittal at trial.

Call us now at 541-359-4585, contact us online, or schedule a confidential free intake call or a paid in-depth consultation with our gun crimes defense team in Multnomah County.

What Are the Most Common Gun Charges in Portland?

Gun crimes in Oregon can arise in a wide range of circumstances—from possessing a firearm without a license to using one during the commission of a felony. Many of these charges carry mandatory minimums or sentencing enhancements, which increase the stakes significantly.

Common gun-related charges include:

• Unlawful possession of a firearm.
• Felon in possession of a firearm.
• Possessing a concealed weapon without a permit.
• Unlawful use of a weapon (UUW).
• Recklessly endangering another person.
• Possessing a firearm in a prohibited place, including schools or government buildings.
• Use of a firearm during the commission of a separate crime.
• Straw purchases or unlawful firearm transfers.
• Federal firearm offenses, including trafficking or possession by prohibited persons.

Many of these charges are layered on other criminal allegations, adding pressure to plea out or accept severe penalties and accused of a gun-related crime. Call our Portland criminal defense attorneys immediately to begin building your defense.

What Are the Penalties for a Gun Crime Conviction in Oregon?

The penalties for a gun conviction depend on the specific charge, prior criminal history, and whether the case is prosecuted at the state or federal level. Some firearm offenses in Oregon fall under Measure 11, which imposes mandatory prison terms—even for first-time offenders.

Consequences of a gun crime conviction may include:

• Mandatory minimum prison sentences, especially for violent or Measure 11 offenses.
• Felony conviction and permanent criminal record.
• Loss of the right to own or possess firearms.
• Substantial fines and court costs.
• Probation with strict conditions.
• Federal consequences for interstate or prohibited person cases.

If a firearm was allegedly used during another crime (such as assault or drug trafficking), the presence of the weapon can result in sentencing enhancements—meaning longer time behind bars. Don’t face these penalties alone. Reach out now for a case evaluation with our experienced Portland criminal defense team.

How Does the Law Office of Mike Arnold Defend Against Gun Charges?

Our defense strategies are built around dismantling the prosecution’s case from every angle. We don’t wait for the state to dictate the narrative—we dig into the facts, challenge assumptions, and expose weaknesses in the evidence. Our background includes handling complex, high-stakes criminal charges involving firearms, multiple parties, and concurrent charges.

We build firearm defense strategies by:

• Challenging the legality of the stop, search, or seizure that led to the weapon’s discovery.
• Evaluating ownership and possession issues, especially in shared spaces or vehicles.
• Exposing inconsistencies or errors in law enforcement reports or testimony.
• Filing motions to suppress evidence obtained through unlawful or unconstitutional means.
• Presenting character evidence, training, or lawful possession documentation.
• Negotiating for charge reductions, alternative resolutions, or diversion when applicable.

We prepare each case as if it’s going to trial—because that level of preparation often leads to better results during negotiation. A strong defense starts with decisive action. Contact our Portland criminal defense lawyers today to craft a defense strategy tailored to your case.

What If I Was Acting in Self-Defense?

Oregon law recognizes the right to use force, including deadly force, in self-defense—but prosecutors don’t always see it that way. If you used a firearm to defend yourself, your family, or your property, you might still be charged, especially if law enforcement believes you acted unreasonably or escalated the situation.

To assert self-defense successfully, we work to:

• Establish that you reasonably believed force was necessary to prevent harm or death.
• Present evidence that the threat against you was imminent and real.
• Highlight your lawful right to possess the weapon used.
• Demonstrate that you did not initiate the confrontation or provoke the situation.
• Use expert testimony to support use-of-force decisions when necessary.

Self-defense cases can be legally and politically charged. We can persuasively present them in court to protect your rights and story. If you acted to protect yourself, your defense should reflect that. Please speak with our Portland gun crimes defense attorneys today to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Can a Gun Crime Conviction Be Expunged or Reduced in Oregon?

Gun crime convictions—especially felonies—can have long-lasting effects. In some cases, individuals may qualify to have their charges reduced or even expunged, depending on the nature of the offense and the time that has passed since conviction.

Options may include:

• Felony reductions under ORS 161.705, converting a conviction to a misdemeanor.
• Expungement of eligible charges, particularly if the case was dismissed or resolved without a conviction.
• Restoration of firearm rights through a formal petition under Oregon law for non-violent offenses after a waiting period.

Our attorneys will review your record and determine the best path toward clearing your name and restoring your rights. Ready to leave the past behind? Let us review your case and explore your post-conviction relief options today.

Accused of a Gun Crime in Oregon? Call Our Portland Defense Attorneys Now.

Gun charges can jeopardize your freedom, rights, and future. At the Law Office of Mike Arnold, we treat these cases with the urgency and strategy they deserve. Whether you’re facing unlawful possession, weapon use during a crime, or self-defense allegations, our legal team will deliver the aggressive, thoughtful defense you need. Call us today at 541-359-4585, contact us online, or schedule your free intake or a comprehensive paid consultation. When your rights are on the line, we don’t hesitate—we fight back.