Possession of a Firearm Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale
Florida law states that you have the right to carry a concealed firearm. However, you must possess a valid concealed weapon license.
A concealed weapon means that you are keeping it from plain sight, such as under your clothing. Doing so without a license is illegal. Keep in mind that open carrying is illegal in Florida even if you do have a license, except for when hunting, fishing, etc.
If you carry a gun without a license, you could be charged with a crime, which could lead to a prison sentence and fines. Contact The Law Offices of R. David Williams, P.A., to schedule a free consultation and speak with an experienced Fort Lauderdale possession of a firearm lawyer.
Types of Charges You Could Face for a Concealed Carry Charge
In Florida, you could face two different charges. These are:
- Concealed weapon, which includes tear gas guns, chemical weapons, knives, metallic knuckles, and dirks
- Concealed firearm, which includes starter guns, machine guns, and antique firearms used to commit a crime
If you face such a charge, call a Fort Lauderdale possession of a firearm lawyer today so you can understand your rights and defense options.
When Can You Carry A Gun Without A License?
Though Florida law requires that you must have a license to carry a concealed weapon, you do not need a license to purchase or own one. Plus, there are exceptions when it comes to license requirements while carrying a weapon.
You can carry a gun without a permit within your home or place of business. You can also carry one without a permit if you are hunting, fishing, camping, or returning from one of these activities. Firing a weapon for testing or target practice in safe conditions does not require that you have a license. The same is true if you are carrying an unloaded gun from the place of purchase to your home.
Being employed as a law enforcement officer or investigator does not require you to have a license to carry a firearm. You can also carry a firearm without a license if you work in a business that sells, manufactures, or repairs guns.
Places Where You Can Never Carry A Gun, Even With A Permit
Having a concealed carry permit does mean you can carry a firearm anywhere. There are situations where you can never have a gun or weapon. Breaking this law can result in severe penalties.
You are never allowed to openly carry a gun or concealed weapon in courthouses or courtrooms, schools or colleges, or detention centers and prisons. You also can’t carry one in federal facilities, airport terminals, polling places, or establishments licensed to dispense alcohol.
Our Fort Lauderdale possession of a firearm lawyer will be your advocate if you have been charged with illegally carrying a gun or weapon. Make an appointment for a free consultation today. You can talk about your options and strategies for defense.
The Penalties For Violating Concealed Carry Laws
If the prosecution proves that you willfully carried a gun in violation of Florida’s carry laws, you could face a misdemeanor charge or even a felony. If you are charged with carrying a concealed weapon, it is a first-degree misdemeanor charge. You could face up to one year in jail and a fine up to $1,000. If you are carrying a concealed firearm, it will be a third-degree felony with up to five years in prison and a fine of $5,000. If you already have felonies on your record, you could face up to 15 years in prison and a fine of $10,000.
Get The Legal Help You Need
The Law Offices of R. David Williams can build an effective defense for you. Our Fort Lauderdale possession of a firearm lawyer will work diligently toward a favorable outcome, which may include having a judge dismiss your case, reduce the charges, or decrease the length and severity of the sentence. There are numerous defense strategies available in most possession of a firearm cases. In order to discuss the details of your particular case and review your legal defense options, call our office today and schedule a free consultation.