Pointing a Firearm in Indianapolis | Charges for Pointing a Gun

Defense strategies that succeed. The dedicated legal defense you deserve.

Gun charges can be the most frustrating charges to receive because they often appear to be impossible to defend, but aggressive gun crimes lawyer Chris Eskew is here to help. Many individuals arrested for violating Indiana’s numerous gun provisions, such as pointing a firearm in Indianapolis or carrying without a license, see their cases as lose-lose situations and allow themselves to be pushed into unfavorable plea bargains by defense attorneys with little vested interest in their cases. While this may be the reality for some, it may not be the reality for you.

Eskew Law provides a unique experience for clients. We do not serve up cheesy gimmicks, corny commercials, or catchy slogans. Our brand is founded solely on our reputation for providing clients with excellent service. Our team of passionate criminal defense attorneys is incredibly enthusiastic about criminal law. In addition, we care deeply about our clients. Because we develop close relationships with all of our clients, we develop a vested interest in the outcome of their cases, above and beyond simply pursuing a paycheck.

This allows us to approach each case with zest and zeal in the quest to help our clients realize their goals and desired outcomes. We customize our representation based on your shared needs and interests, and we tailor our defense strategy based on the unique facts and circumstances of your case. To learn more about how Eskew Law can make a difference, call us today at 317-699-4655 to schedule an appointment.

Pointing a Firearm at Another Person

Under Section 35-47-4-3 of the Indiana Code, it is against the law to point a firearm at another person. A firearm is a gun capable of shooting bullets. It includes:

Rifles
Shotguns
Carbines
Handguns
Pistols
Revolvers
Machine guns
Automatic and semi-automatic guns
Submachine guns
Single-action pistols

While many Indiana laws, like carrying a handgun without a license, are based solely on handguns, this statute forbids pointing any type of gun at another human being. You must knowingly or intentionally point the firearm at another person in Indianapolis.

What Are Potential Penalties for Gun Pointing Charges?

In Indianapolis, pointing a firearm at another person is a Level 6 felony, which is punishable by a minimum of 0.5 years in state prison and a maximum of 2.5 years in state prison, with an advised sentence of one year. In addition, up to $10,000 in fines may be assessed.

However, if the gun is not loaded, the offense becomes a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable up to one year in county jail and up to $5,000 in fines.

Exceptions and Strategic Defenses

Every case is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution to Indianapolis charges for pointing a firearm. With that said, the law does recognize a variety of defenses, all of which our criminal defense lawyers are well-versed in. Potential defenses include:

You did not know the gun was a real firearm
You did not know you were pointing the gun at a person
You did not intend to point the gun in the direction of another person
You never pointed the gun
There was not another person present
Fabrication
Misidentification
You were a police officer acting within the scope of your employment
You were justified in using reasonable force because you were acting in self-defense

Fight Charges for Pointing a Gun with a Team of Devoted Indianapolis Lawyers on Your Side

If you have been charged with pointing a firearm in Indianapolis, you should seek legal help right away. At Eskew Law, it is the job of our legal team to utilize every tool in our arsenal to help you negotiate for reduced or dismissed charges, show the government is unable to prove its case, or champion for your innocence. We take this privilege and responsibility seriously for all of our clients throughout Indianapolis and Central Indiana. To schedule a consultation, call our law firm at 317-699-4655 today.

Next Steps

Step 01

Consultation

Meet with the attorney to discuss your legal issue. This initial meeting helps you understand their expertise and decide if they’re the right fit.

Step 02

Agreement

Review and sign a retainer agreement. This contract outlines the services, fees, and other essential terms.

Step 03

Documents

Gather and provide all relevant documents related to your case. This step helps your attorney build your case efficiently.

Step 04

Communication

Set expectations for how and when you’ll communicate with your attorney. Clear communication ensures that you stay informed throughout the process.

Testimonials

Great law firm. Very receptive and will do their best to accommodate all of your legal needs.

-Mark Bovey

Courtney was such an amazing person to work with! She was very efficient and helpful with handling my case. I was arrested on gun and drug possession charges in August of 2024 in Hancock County here in Indiana. I was very nervous and worried about the outcome on my case. I originally believed it would take a while to resolve but she was very adamant on me getting the very best outcome possible. The case was resolved in a very favorable manner of time and the outcome was even better than what I hoped for. Highly recommend 10/10! Go with COURTNEY!!!

-MAF Enterprises

I was represented by Attorney Yasmin Barker, and she went above and beyond for me in both my family and civil matters. She gave me excellent advice, clearly explained everything, and always had my best interests in mind. Yasmin was responsive, patient, and available whenever I had questions, and her team communicated efficiently when she wasn’t immediately available. She prepared all the necessary documentation and motions quickly and thoroughly, making sure I understood my rights and the long-term impact of every decision. I highly recommend Yasmin Barker and her team to any father looking for a knowledgeable, dedicated, and compassionate family law attorney. Great team, great resources, and exceptional service!

-Reynaldo Zarazua

I have been utilizing this firm for almost a decade for my family’s legal issues. I have literally had a great experience with all the staff. I highly recommend Eskew law to expeditiously get the ball rolling on your cases. They go far and beyond the call of duty to assist in any way they can . Everyone in that office is professional and genuinely concerned for their clients. !!!

-Kimmies Vacations

Is Eskew Law Right For You?

Facing legal issues can be very overwhelming. Defending against criminal charges, navigating a personal injury claim, and advocating for yourself during a family law case can be difficult when you’re also balancing all your other responsibilities. At Eskew Law, we know how challenging this time can be for you, and we are dedicated to making it easier for you and your family.

If you are looking for a compassionate lawyer serving Indianapolis with integrity and professionalism, look no further than Eskew Law. With over seventy-five years of experience serving clients in Indiana, we are confident that we can help you get the answers you need and reach the resolution you deserve in your case.