{"id":1419,"date":"2026-02-26T01:31:10","date_gmt":"2026-02-26T01:31:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/?post_type=practice_area&#038;p=1419"},"modified":"2026-02-26T01:31:10","modified_gmt":"2026-02-26T01:31:10","slug":"possession-of-a-large-capacity-firearm","status":"publish","type":"practice_area","link":"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/practice-areas\/possession-of-a-large-capacity-firearm\/","title":{"rendered":"Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm in Massachusetts"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"topbox\">\n<p>Facing charges for unlawful <a href=\"https:\/\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/practice-areas\/gun-firearm-offenses\/\">possession of a large capacity firearm in Massachusetts<\/a> is a serious matter that demands immediate attention. The state&#8217;s stringent gun laws can result in severe penalties, including mandatory prison sentences. If you&#8217;re in this situation, you need an experienced <b>Massachusetts large capacity firearm defense lawyer<\/b> to protect your rights and build a strong defense on your behalf.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p><b>Take Action Now Call <a href=\"tel:6174048878\">(617) 404-8878<\/a> for a Consultation with Attorney Anthony R. Riccio<\/b><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h2>Understanding Unlawful Possession of Large Capacity Firearms in Massachusetts<\/h2>\n<p>Under <a href=\"https:\/\/malegislature.gov\/Laws\/GeneralLaws\/Partiv\/Titlei\/Chapter269\/Section10\"><b>Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 269 Section 10(m)<\/b><\/a>, it&#8217;s illegal to possess a large capacity weapon or feeding device unless you are exempt by statute or have a valid Class A or B <a href=\"https:\/\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/practice-areas\/carrying-a-firearm-without-a-license-in-ma\/\">License to Carry (LTC) firearms<\/a>. Simply possessing a valid Firearm Identification (FID) card is not a defense against this charge, though it may lead to lesser penalties.<\/p>\n<p><b>Key Points to Understand:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Strict Regulations<\/b>: Massachusetts has some of the strictest gun laws in the country.<\/li>\n<li><b>License Requirements<\/b>: A Class A or B LTC is necessary for lawful possession.<\/li>\n<li><b>FID Card Limitations<\/b>: An FID card alone does not permit <a href=\"https:\/\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/practice-areas\/firearm-without-an-fid-card\/\">possession of large capacity firearms<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-1420\" src=\"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/01-image1-27.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/01-image1-27.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/01-image1-27-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/01-image1-27-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>Penalties for Unlawful Possession of Large Capacity Firearms<\/h2>\n<p>Being convicted of this offense carries severe consequences:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Without a Valid FID Card<\/b>:\n<ul>\n<li>Up to <b>10 years<\/b> in state prison.<\/li>\n<li><b>Mandatory minimum sentence<\/b> of 2.5 years in state prison.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><b>With a Valid FID Card<\/b>:\n<ul>\n<li>Up to <b>10 years<\/b> in state prison.<\/li>\n<li><b>Mandatory minimum sentence<\/b> of <b>1 year<\/b> in state prison.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These penalties underscore the importance of having skilled legal representation to navigate the complexities of your case.<\/p>\n<p><b>Facing Severe Penalties? &#8211; Contact Riccio Law to Protect Your Future<\/b><\/p>\n<h2>Elements the Prosecution Must Prove<\/h2>\n<p>For a conviction, the prosecution must establish <b>four critical elements beyond a reasonable doubt<\/b>:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><b>Possession<\/b>: You had physical control over the item.<\/li>\n<li><b>Legal Definition<\/b>: The item is legally defined as a large capacity weapon or feeding device.<\/li>\n<li><b>Knowledge of Possession<\/b>: You were aware that you possessed the item.<\/li>\n<li><b>Knowledge of Capacity<\/b>: You knew the item met the legal definition of large capacity or was capable of holding more than ten rounds of ammunition or more than five shotgun shells.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3>Defending Against These Elements:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Disputing Possession<\/b>: Arguing that you did not have <a href=\"https:\/\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/violent-crimes\/firearm-ownership-spouse-felon-massachusetts\/\">control over the firearm<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><b>Challenging Definitions<\/b>: Questioning whether the item meets the legal criteria.<\/li>\n<li><b>Lack of Knowledge<\/b>: Demonstrating you were unaware of the item&#8217;s capacity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>What Constitutes a Large Capacity Weapon or Feeding Device?<\/h2>\n<p>Understanding what qualifies as a large capacity weapon or feeding device is crucial for your defense.<\/p>\n<h3>Large Capacity Weapon:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Semi-Automatic Firearm<\/b>: With a fixed large capacity feeding device.<\/li>\n<li><b>Detachable Feeding Device<\/b>: Capable of accepting or readily modifiable to accept a detachable large capacity feeding device.<\/li>\n<li><b>Rotating Cylinder<\/b>: Employs a cylinder holding more than ten rounds or five shotgun shells.<\/li>\n<li><b>Assault Weapons<\/b>: Classified under specific federal or state guidelines.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Large Capacity Feeding Device:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Magazines and Drums<\/b>: Fixed or detachable devices holding more than ten rounds or five shotgun shells.<\/li>\n<li><b>Conversion Capability<\/b>: Can be readily converted to hold additional ammunition.<\/li>\n<li><b>Federal Definitions<\/b>: As outlined in the Federal Public Safety and Recreational Firearms Use Protections Act.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-1421\" src=\"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/02-image2-26.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"588\" srcset=\"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/02-image2-26.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/02-image2-26-300x176.jpg 300w, https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/02-image2-26-768x452.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/h2>\n<h2>Why You Need a Specialized Massachusetts Gun Crimes Lawyer<\/h2>\n<p>Navigating the complexities of Massachusetts gun laws requires specialized legal expertise.<\/p>\n<p><b>Benefits of Hiring a Specialized Lawyer<\/b>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>In-Depth Knowledge<\/b>: Understanding of nuanced state and federal gun laws.<\/li>\n<li><b>Strategic Defense<\/b>: Ability to craft a defense that challenges the prosecution&#8217;s case.<\/li>\n<li><b>Experience in Local Courts<\/b>: Familiarity with Massachusetts courts and prosecutors.<\/li>\n<li><b>Protecting Your Rights<\/b>: Ensuring all legal procedures were correctly followed during your arrest and investigation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong data-start=\"187\" data-end=\"213\">Don&#8217;t Risk Your Future<\/strong><br data-start=\"213\" data-end=\"216\" \/><strong>Let <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/\" target=\"_new\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"220\" data-end=\"279\">legal help from Riccio Law<\/a> defend your rights.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2>Attorney Anthony R. Riccio&#8217;s Expertise in Gun Crime Defense<\/h2>\n<p>Attorney Anthony R. Riccio brings years of experience and a proven track record in defending clients against <a href=\"https:\/\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/practice-areas\/firearm-without-an-fid-card\/\">gun-related charges<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><b>Why Choose Attorney Riccio<\/b>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Former Prosecutor<\/b>: Offers unique insights into the prosecution&#8217;s strategies.<\/li>\n<li><b>Personalized Approach<\/b>: Tailors defense strategies to each client&#8217;s specific circumstances.<\/li>\n<li><b>Client-Centered Representation<\/b>: Prioritizes communication and transparency.<\/li>\n<li><b>Successful Outcomes<\/b>: Has achieved reductions in charges and dismissals for past clients.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Don&#8217;t Wait\u2014Your Future Depends on Swift Action<\/h3>\n<p>The sooner you engage legal representation, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Phone<\/b>: Call us at <b><a href=\"tel:6174048878\">(617) 404-8878<\/a><\/b><\/li>\n<li><b>Online<\/b>: Fill out our <a href=\"https:\/\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/contact\/\"><b>Contact Form<\/b><\/a> for a prompt response<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<blockquote><p><b>We&#8217;re here to defend your rights and protect your future.<\/b><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h2>FAQs About Unlawful Possession of Large Capacity Firearms in Massachusetts<\/h2>\n<h3>Is possessing a large capacity firearm always illegal in Massachusetts?<\/h3>\n<p>No, it is legal if you have a valid Class A or B LTC and are not otherwise <a href=\"https:\/\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/criminal-law\/massachusetts-gun-control-laws\/\">prohibited from possessing firearms<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Can an FID card holder legally possess a large capacity feeding device?<\/h3>\n<p>No, an FID card does not permit the possession of large capacity weapons or feeding devices.<\/p>\n<h3>What if I was unaware that the firearm was classified as large capacity?<\/h3>\n<p>Lack of knowledge may be a defense, as the prosecution must prove you knew the firearm met the large capacity definition.<\/p>\n<h3>Are there any exemptions to this law?<\/h3>\n<p>Certain individuals, such as law enforcement officers, may be exempt when performing official duties.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p><b>Have More Questions? &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/contact\/\">Contact Attorney Riccio<\/a> for Answers Specific to Your Situation<\/b><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h2>Legal Resources<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/malegislature.gov\/Laws\/GeneralLaws\/Partiv\/Titlei\/Chapter269\/Section10\">https:\/\/malegislature.gov\/Laws\/GeneralLaws\/Partiv\/Titlei\/Chapter269\/Section10<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Pursuant to General Laws Chapter 269 Section 10(m) , it is a crime to possess a large capacity weapon or feeding device in Massachusetts unless exempt by statute or issued a valid Class A or B license to carry (LTC) firearms. Although possessing a valid firearm identification (FID)  card is not a defense to a violation under this section, individuals who have a valid FID card at the time of the offense are subject to lesser penalties than those who do not<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":1171,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false},"tags":[],"practice_cat":[],"class_list":["post-1419","practice_area","type-practice_area","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/practice_area\/1419","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/practice_area"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/practice_area"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1171"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1419"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1419"},{"taxonomy":"practice_cat","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging8.dynaserverx.com\/anthonyricciolaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/practice_cat?post=1419"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}