New Jersey’s Graves Act is legislation regarding firearm offenses. If you are found guilty under the Graves Act, it is a second degree offense. The Graves Act imposes a mandatory prison sentence for anyone charged with unlawful possession of a handgun, rifle, or shotgun. Any individual who commits a certain crime while they are in possession of a firearm -- including a handgun, shotgun, or rifle -- will also face mandatory prison time if they are convicted. First offenders under the Graves Act face jail time of between five and ten years. And parole is restricted under the Graves Act -- you must serve a minimum three-year sentence.