Gun Trafficking & Form 4473 Violations Defense in Arizona

Strategic Defense Against 18 U.S.C. §922 & NICS Violations

Facing charges under 18 U.S.C. §922 or NICS background-check violations for straw purchases, firearms trafficking, or paperwork errors can trigger mandatory prison terms and revocation of constitutional rights. Armour Legal’s firearms-crime specialists leverage forensic ballistics, expert testimony, and in-depth knowledge of federal regulations to challenge every element of the prosecution’s case.

We dissect transaction records, trace serial numbers, and analyze NICS procedures to file targeted motions, negotiate charge reductions, and develop alternative sentencing strategies that protect your rights and minimize penalties.

What We Defend
Charges under 21 U.S.C. §841 for distribution, manufacturing, and possession

Form 4473 transaction records and NICS background checks

Serial-number tracing and ballistic evidence

Search warrant execution and wiretap legality

Enhanced sentencing and felon-in-possession charges

We defend allegations of straw purchasing, false statements during firearm acquisition, and trafficking or unlawful export theories inferred from volume, timing, or cross‑border movement. Cases frequently rely on ATF trace data, store video, purchase histories, Form‑4473 entries, and cooperator claims; we test every inference about intent, knowledge, and materiality.


Because firearm counts can trigger mandatory enhancements, our strategy prioritizes sequencing: targeting the highest‑exposure counts first, negotiating carefully staged resolutions, and protecting lawful possession rights where possible. Expert input on retail compliance and serial‑number tracing is often decisive.

Firearm Trafficking & Straw‑Purchase Allegations Explained

Federal firearm cases often allege straw purchasing—buying a gun for someone else—or false statements on purchase forms. The government uses surveillance, ATF trace data, and purchase patterns to claim an unlawful scheme. We examine training and compliance at the point of sale, the clarity of questions on forms, and whether statements were actually material to the transaction.


“Trafficking” theories can rest on volume, quick resale, or cross‑border movement. We contest assumptions about intent and knowledge, seek to exclude prejudicial “cartel” rhetoric, and demand proof that any alleged end‑user was prohibited. Expert review of ballistics, serial‑number records, and retail procedures often reveals alternate explanations.


Because firearm counts can drive mandatory penalties and enhancements, early strategy matters. We fight for pretrial release, negotiate carefully sequenced resolutions, and protect Second Amendment considerations where state law intersects with federal charges.

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Key Considerations in Gun Trafficking Defense

Mandatory-Minimum Sentencing

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Federal law imposes mandatory minimums that eliminate judicial discretion; we explore statutory loopholes and cooperation agreements to offset these penalties.
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Jurisdiction & Venue

We seek transfer or consolidation when multiple districts are involved to ensure the most favorable forum.
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Co-defendant & Conspiracy Strategy

We present diversion programs, cooperation agreements, and mitigating circumstances to avoid or reduce mandatory-minimum sentences.
Second Amendment Shield: Tenacious Gun Trafficking Representation

Federal gun-trafficking charges (18 U.S.C. §922(a)(6)) and false-information counts on ATF Form 4473 can result in decades behind bars. Armour Legal meticulously analyzes dealer training manuals, ATF classification criteria, and sample-identification procedures to detect procedural flaws and suppress tainted evidence.


Our defense strategy includes independent ballistic testing, expert examination of serial-number records, and cross-examination of ATF agents. We also contest “straw purchase” allegations by demonstrating lack of criminal intent, aiming to reduce or dismiss charges and preserve your Second Amendment rights.

Armour Legal defends firearm cases by attacking knowledge, materiality, and intent. We analyze transaction records, surveillance, and purchase patterns to refute straw‑purchase theories and alleged false statements. Where the government paints a trafficking narrative from volume or resale timing, we counter with lawful collection, gifting, or resale explanations backed by records. We also examine whether retail processes and forms were clear, properly explained, and consistently applied.


Because firearm counts trigger enhancements and collateral consequences, we push early for release conditions, targeted discovery, and sequential negotiations that remove the most damaging allegations first. We coordinate with subject‑matter experts on retail compliance, serial‑number tracing, and ballistics to show alternate storylines and to exclude inflammatory references (e.g., cartel rhetoric) that add heat without proof. Our goal is a resolution anchored in facts—not assumptions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes federal gun trafficking under §922?
Federal gun trafficking includes straw purchases, dealing without a license, and intent to distribute firearms. We dissect every transaction detail to challenge each element of the offense.
How can I challenge errors on my Form 4473?
We analyze ATF regulations and training materials to identify misapplication of background-check procedures, then file motions to suppress or dismiss based on technical violations.
Will ballistic evidence hold up in court?
Ballistic matching relies on proper chain-of-custody and NIBIN procedures. We bring in independent experts to test sample integrity and challenge unreliable forensic methods.
Can I challenge ATF’s classification of my firearm?
Yes. We examine ATF classification criteria and technical definitions to argue misidentification, which can reduce or eliminate felon-in-possession charges.
Stand Up to Federal Gun Charges

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