Columbia Gun Lawyer
As most people know, Americans have the right to bear arms. This right must be taken seriously, and although we have the right to purchase and use guns, there are legal limits. The government only allows citizens to purchase and use guns under certain circumstances, and some types of guns are banned.
If you or someone you know was charged with a gun crime, you may be seeking legal representation. The state takes gun charges very seriously, and if you are convicted, you could lose both your freedom and your right to own guns in the future. The most severe gun charges could result in jail time, especially if you were convicted of a gun crime in the past.
Take charge of your future and contact a Columbia gun lawyer as soon as possible. A dedicated criminal attorney could fight for you.
Illegal Possession of a Firearm
It is illegal to possess guns under certain circumstances. If a person has lost their right to own a gun or they own a gun without a permit, they could be charged with illegal possession of a firearm in the state of Maryland. If the gun is found inside a vehicle—even if unloaded—they could face additional charges.
Illegal possession of a firearm is the most common type of gun charge in the state, and if a person is charged, they should reach out to a gun lawyer in Columbia immediately.
The laws regarding firearm possession are very strict. Former felons may not possess any firearms, even if the crime they were convicted of did not involve a gun or weapon. It is also illegal to possess a gun in certain areas, such as hospitals, prisons, police stations, schools, and many public and government buildings.
Even if a person has a permit for their firearm, they can be charged with illegal possession if they are found with a gun on their persons—secured, loaded, or otherwise. Having a concealed carry permit from another state does not mean that the laws elsewhere would necessarily apply.
Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm
It is also illegal to fire a gun in certain areas and under certain circumstances. Doing so is referred to as illegally discharging a firearm, which is a misdemeanor charge punishable by a fine of up to $1,000. The government does not allow gun owners to discharge firearms in areas where public safety may be compromised, such as a bus, arena, or crowded city street. It is also illegal to discharge a firearm on certain public holidays, such as New Years’ Day.
A firearm must be carefully carried in a specific manner as well, primarily because a firearm could accidentally discharge if it is not properly stored. If a person harms themselves or another person, they could be charged with illegal discharge. While it is legal to hunt, hunters must have a permit, and they may only hunt during certain seasons. If they do not, they could face a penalty of up to $1,000 per violation. Multiple violations often result in jail time or a loss of hunting privileges. An individual facing
Learn More from a Columbia Gun Attorney Today
If you were charged with a gun crime, you must take legal action immediately, especially if you have prior charges. Gun crimes are prosecuted harshly, and law enforcement agents take great lengths to collect the evidence necessary to prove you are guilty. Even if a person is not aware that they are in possession of a gun, they could still be charged with a crime.
A conviction could also have lasting consequences on your life, especially if you are convicted of a felony gun charge. Learn more about gun laws and charges by contacting a Columbia gun lawyer at once.