Facing gun-related charges in Glen Burnie or Anne Arundel County demands immediate, expert defense. Maryland maintains some of the strictest firearm laws in the country—violate the rules for carrying or possessing a handgun, and you risk mandatory jail time, large fines, and long-lasting firearm restrictions. Kunka Law, led by Attorney Matthew Kunka, provides skilled defense for handgun possession, unlawful carrying, and related weapons offenses. With a flawless AVVO rating, decades of courtroom experience, and relentless client advocacy, Kunka Law is your best choice for gun charge defense in Maryland.
Why Choose Kunka Law for Gun Charge Defense?
Legal Credentials & Reputation:
Matt Kunka brings nearly two decades of criminal defense experience in Maryland. He began as a public defender in Anne Arundel County, known for providing “vigorous and aggressive defense for those in need of criminal counsel,” and later founded Kunka Law to focus on firearm and serious criminal cases ({turn0search16}). He holds a perfect 5.0 AVVO rating with numerous client reviews attesting to his professionalism and trial prowess ({turn0search4}).
Proven Results:
Clients frequently commend Matt for handling complex gun cases—including possession, transport, and prohibited-person charges—with outcomes like suspended charges and opportunities to expunge records within a year.
Local Knowledge, Aggressive Defense:
Familiar with Anne Arundel Circuit and District Courts, Matt can effectively challenge evidence, negotiate with local prosecutors, and take cases to trial when necessary. Jurors recognize his thorough, credible trial presence and deep knowledge of Maryland gun statutes.
Maryland Gun Laws & Penalties: What You Need to Know
Unlawful Wear, Carry, or Transport (§ 4‑203)
Maryland law prohibits knowingly wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun (visible or concealed) without a license, including inside a vehicle. A first-time violation is a misdemeanor punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine up to $2,500, with a 30-day mandatory minimum jail sentence (90 days if a handgun was loaded or on school.
Second-time offenders face up to 10–30 years in prison, with at least one year mandatory, and third-time charges may trigger felony prosecution with escalating mandatory penalties.
Prohibited Possession (§ Public Safety § 5‑133)
Those convicted of certain crimes—including prior Felony, violent offense, protective order violation, or drug abuse noise—are barred from possessing regulated firearms under § 5‑133(b). Violation is a felony with mandatory 5–15 years in prison, no parole allowed. This firearm prohibition extends for years after certain convictions and applies regardless of how long ago the prior crime occurred.
Other Charges: Child Access (§ 4‑104), School Property (§ 4‑102), & Ammunition Travel
Holding a firearm where a minor can access it can result in up to 1 year jail or $1,000 fine. Possession near or on school grounds triggers similar penalties. Transporting ammunition unlawfully may also result in felony exposure—especially for those barred from possessing firearms due to prior offenses.
How Kunka Law Defends Gun Charge Cases
1. Free, Confidential Case Evaluation
Meet with Attorney Kunka for a no-cost consultation. He’ll review your arrest, charges, criminal history, and explain potential defenses and outcomes—including whether the charge qualifies as misdemeanor or felony.
2. Prompt Legal Strategy & Bond Advocacy
We work quickly to request bond or bail hearings to avoid jail time while awaiting trial.
3. Evidence Review & Investigation
We analyze the police report, tactic logs, dashcam or vehicle searches, and interview witnesses if needed. We identify whether the stop or search violated your constitutional rights, and whether the firearm discharge or evidence chain is disputable.
4. Pre‑Trial Motions & Legal Challenges
- Motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence (e.g. illegal stop or invalid search)
- Motions to dismiss charges if elements are unprovable
5. Negotiation & Diversion Options
Depending on case specifics, Matt can negotiate charge reduction—or even secure an outcome such as probation agreement or diversion instead of conviction.
6. Trial Representation
If no deal is possible, Matt Lukas will defend you at trial in District or Circuit Court. He will cross-examine prosecution witnesses, challenge evidence, and present your side persuasively.
7. Post‑Conviction & Restoration of Rights
If convicted, we handle sentencing advocacy and guide clients through any available record sealing or expungement process, especially when firearm restrictions negatively impact employment or civil rights.
Client Testimonials
Matt Kunka is an outstanding attorney. He provides exceptional customer service, listens attentively, and approaches every situation with a non-judgmental attitude. His professionalism, knowledge of the law, and prompt communication truly set him apart. Throughout my experience, he consistently kept me informed and updated, which made a significant difference. I would highly recommend his services to anyone in need of legal support—you’ll be in good hands.
Matt Kunka is an extremely competent, vigilant, persistent, knowledgeable, and kind attorney. Our son had some legal issues over COVID and it took over four years to resolve, resulting in the best outcome we could have hoped for. Matt was not only diligent and available this whole time, he went above and beyond to represent our son in the best possible way, providing support and hope along the way. We have sincerely thanked him many times for his outstanding service, and he is very humble, refusing extra compensation. We thank him from the bottom of our hearts for all he has done for our son and our family, and wish him all the very best in his future endeavors.
Matt is an incredibly hardworking and trustworthy lawyer. He’s made some of the most stressful and difficult times in my life worry free, explaining each step of the way and doing everything in his power to get you the results you want. Not only does he provide knowledgeable representation, but he’s cost effective and understanding of financial situations. I wouldn’t want anyone but Matt handling my court cases and my future.
I can’t thank Matt Kunka enough for his outstanding support and expertise in handling my cases. From the very beginning, he was professional, knowledgeable, and fully committed to securing the best possible outcome for me. Matt guided me through every step of the legal process, patiently answering my questions and providing clear, strategic advice. He made me feel like a top priority, ensuring that my voice was heard and my concerns addressed. His courtroom skills and keen attention to detail made a significant difference in my case, and I felt truly supported throughout the entire process. If you’re looking for a skilled, dedicated, and compassionate criminal lawyer, I highly recommend Matt Kunka.
Matt is an amazing attorney! He puts his all into showcasing his client’s strengths and personal accomplishments to a judge. He made my family and I feel comforted during a very dark time where we felt like there was no coming back from a very unfortunate auto incident. Matt was always personable and would handle things in a very swift and prompt manner. We are so grateful for everything he has done for us, he is the best!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a first-time unlawful carry charge result in jail?
Yes—a first offense carries up to 5 years in prison, with mandatory minimum jail time of 30 days (or 90 days if loaded or on school property).
Are there defenses if the firearm was in my vehicle but I didn’t have a permit?
Potentially. Maryland law allows transport between residences, to a range or repair shop, as long as the firearm is unloaded and secured in a case or holster. Clear defense depends on proving compliance with exceptions.
What if I was previously convicted of a felony or protected order violation?
Possession under § 5‑133(b) becomes a felony punishable by 5–15 years mandatory prison. We challenge whether that prior offense disqualifies you legally. In limited cases, the court retains discretion if enough time has passed.
Do I really need a lawyer?
Strongly yes. Gun charges are especially serious in Maryland. Even misdemeanor convictions can result in jail, loss of gun rights, and long criminal records. Having a criminal defense attorney who knows firearm statutes, exceptions, and trial procedure can make the difference between a conviction and an acquittal—or a lighter plea deal that preserves your future.
The Defense Process at Kunka Law
- Free Consultation – Review charges, risks, and what defense strategies we may use.
- Immediate Strategy – We file necessary motions, request bond hearings, and start investigation.
- Defense Building – Collect police logs, Coast Guard reports, purchase or ownership records, and witness statements.
- Motion Practice & Negotiation – Suppress illegal evidence, reduce charges, or secure diversion.
- Trial Representation – We handle all courtroom events, arguments, cross-examination, and closing statements.
- Post‑Case Support – Sentencing advocacy, expungement consult, and advising on future gun rights and record rehabilitation.
Call to Action: Protect Your Rights Against Gun Charges
If you’re facing gun-related criminal charges—whether unlawful carry, prohibited possession, or related firearms offenses—in Glen Burnie or Anne Arundel County, don’t wait. Your future freedoms are at risk, and an arrest is not a guarantee—you have rights.
Contact Kunka Law today for a free, confidential consultation:
Phone: (410) 787-0110) | Email: [email protected]
Office: 7420 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd Suite 300, Glen Burnie, MD 21061
We defend gun cases throughout Anne Arundel County, including Glen Burnie, Pasadena, Linthicum, Annapolis, and Severn. Attorney Kunka personally leads every case—no shortcuts, full commitment, and no fees unless we deliver a successful outcome.