Criminal Charges For Weapons And Firearms In Florida
Any sort of criminal charges involving a weapon or firearm are serious, and the accused benefit from the help of a legal professional. Bauer, Crider, Kindel and Parry has offices in Clearwater and Port Richey. Our attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience and are licensed to practice in both state and federal court. No matter what type of weapons charges you are facing, they have the experience to fully defend your constitutional rights and help you fight the accusations against you.
State And Federal Weapons, Gun And Firearm Charges
The types of criminal charges in the state of Florida range in severity. Criminal charges for weapons and the use of guns or firearms can include:
- Unlawful possession of a firearm, including carrying a gun without a license
- Carrying a concealed firearm without having a permit to do so
- Unlawful discharge of a firearm or shooting a gun in public
- Illegally selling a gun or firearm
- Possessing a stolen firearm
- Using a gun or firearm while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
When a federal agency is involved in a criminal investigation, the federal government can bring charges against you in federal court. Common federal gun crimes include possession of a destructive device, being a convicted felon with possession of a firearm, or firearm or ammunition trafficking. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys can defend you against criminal weapons charges in state or federal court.
When a federal agency is involved in a criminal investigation, the federal government can bring charges against you in federal court. Common federal gun crimes include possession of a destructive device, being a convicted felon with possession of a firearm, or firearm or ammunition trafficking. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys can defend you against criminal weapons charges in state or federal court.
Can I Carry A Gun Without A Permit In Florida?
No. Carrying firearms without possessing a license is a serious offense in the state of Florida. Florida Statute section 790.053 outlines the law in this area. It is illegal for an unlicensed individual to engage in open carry of a firearm or other deadly weapon in public view.
It’s important to note that open carry laws only apply to public settings. Individuals can engage in open carry in private settings while hunting or while attending a gun range. However, a weapon cannot be displayed in a manner that is deemed threatening to other people.
Can I Carry A Loaded Gun In My Car In Florida?
Lawful firearms owners in Florida are permitted to carry a loaded firearm in their vehicle or other conveyance under certain conditions. Florida Statute 790.25 protects you if:
- You are at least 18 years old (the statute does not apply to minors)
- You have a valid reason for concealed carry (self-defense reasons)
- The firearm is not on your person (the firearm should be stored within the interior of your vehicle)
- The deadly weapon is not easily accessible (the firearm should not be readily available for immediate use by you or passengers)
Can Out-Of-State Residents Carry A Gun In Florida?
Yes, out-of-state residents are permitted to carry a concealed weapon or firearm in certain conditions. The resident must be at least 21 years old. The individual must also satisfy the requirements for concealed carry under Florida Statute 290.06 or have in their immediate possession a valid concealed carry license from their home state.
Individuals with a history of physical or mental health issues that impact their safe handling of weapons may face restrictions on concealed carry. An individual may also be ineligible if they have a felony conviction on their record.
Aggravated Crimes: Using A Weapon to Commit A Crime
In the state of Florida, if you use a gun to commit a felony, additional aggravated charges can be filed against you. Even just carrying a concealed weapon or gun while you’re participating in a criminal act can escalate criminal charges to an aggravated crime. Drug offenses with a weapon will escalate the crime to a felony. Accusations of theft with the use of a weapon can increase the severity of the criminal offense to a robbery charge. Aggravated charges can also be filed in federal court. If you are convicted of aggravated weapons charges, you could find yourself facing additional jail time in your criminal sentence.
Schedule A Free Consultation With A Gun Defense Attorney
If you are facing criminal charges for a weapons charge, contact a criminal defense attorney today. Our criminal defense lawyers offer a free consultation for prospective clients. You can book your free appointment by calling our office at 727-275-9822 or by sending an email through our online form.