Facing Felony Charges for Defensive Gun Use
Imagine this: you legally carry a firearm for self-defense, and in a tense encounter, you draw your gun but don’t fire. You think the worst is over—until police arrive, and you’re charged with a serious felony.
That’s exactly what happened in a Phoenix case, where a man was charged with disorderly conduct involving weapons, a Class 6 dangerous felony. In Arizona, that type of felony can never be removed from your record and permanently strips away civil rights like voting and firearm ownership. All this—for simply holding a gun defensively.
How Expert Witnesses Change the Outcome
The defense attorney in this case made a critical decision: he brought in firearms instructor and use-of-force expert John P. Correia (of Active Self Protection, Facebook, and YouTube).
John carefully reviewed the case discovery and authored a detailed report explaining why the defendant’s conduct fit within Arizona’s defensive display of a firearm statute. That report was given to both the prosecutor and the court—and it played a decisive role in having the charges dismissed before trial.
The lesson? Involving an expert witness early can stop a case from ever reaching the courtroom.
The Price Tag of a Solid Defense
Here’s where most gun owners get a wake-up call:
- John’s work as an expert witness cost around $5,500.
- Attorneys charge thousands more.
- If the case had gone to trial, the total defense cost could have easily skyrocketed.
Most ordinary citizens simply don’t have that kind of money lying around. Thankfully, in this case, self-defense insurance covered the costs—making a proper defense possible.
Why You Need Self-Defense Insurance
This case demonstrates the cold reality:
- Even when you act lawfully, you may still face arrest and charges.
- Defending yourself legally costs thousands of dollars.
- Without insurance, many people are forced into plea deals simply because they can’t afford to fight.
Self-defense insurance ensures that when the worst happens, you have access to qualified attorneys and expert witnesses without risking financial ruin.
Preparing for the Legal Fight
If you carry a firearm, protecting yourself means more than just learning to shoot—it means preparing for the courtroom as well. Here’s what you should do:
- Get covered today: Start with our Self-Defense Insurance Comparison Chart.
- Know your rights: Read our Colorado Self-Defense Law Guide.
- Train realistically: Practice with our Shooting Drills.
- Gear up smart: Visit our Shop for training aids and defensive tools.
- Build legal confidence: Sign up for a Colorado Concealed Carry Class.
Final Word
The Phoenix case could have ruined a man’s life forever. Instead, early involvement of an expert witness and the backing of self-defense insurance made the difference.
Credit goes to John P. Correia for his expert witness role and for sharing his experience through Active Self Protection, Facebook, and YouTube.
And remember: if you’re in Colorado, I’m Mark Schneider—a firearms instructor, CCW trainer, and expert witness consultant. I help citizens and attorneys navigate the legal and practical realities of self-defense.
Don’t wait until you’re in handcuffs. Prepare now—with the right training, the right knowledge, and the right insurance.
Preparing for the Legal Fight
If you carry a firearm, protecting yourself means more than just learning to shoot—it means preparing for the legal battle that may follow. Here are some resources to help:
- Understand the legal framework: Read our guide on the 5 Elements of Self-Defense.
- Learn how “reasonableness” is judged in court: Check out our breakdown of Ability, Opportunity, and Jeopardy (AOJ).
- Know the reality of defensive encounters: Review the data in our Average Gunfight Statistics article.
- Get covered today: Start with our Self-Defense Insurance Comparison Chart
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances. If you are involved in a self-defense incident, consult with a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction. Mention of specific instructors, experts, or organizations does not imply endorsement. Always verify current laws and insurance policies before making decisions.
