The laws in this state provide wide-ranging protection for your Second Amendment rights. While the rules here allow you to carry a concealed firearm without a license, there are still strict limitations that you should be aware of. One misstep could lead to your arrest and a conviction that changes your life forever.
If you have been charged with a firearms crime, the Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A. could help. Having a dedicated defense attorney allows you to move forward with confidence, knowing that your case is in capable hands. A St. Augustine gun lawyer could review the allegations against you and build a strong defense strategy on your behalf. Problems? Pick Porter!™
State Gun Rights
State law protects your right to bear arms, but those rights can be limited in specific situations, especially when criminal charges are involved. You generally have the right to own, carry, and use firearms in accordance with state laws, which include regulations regarding both concealed and open carry. However, a conviction for certain offenses, such as domestic violence, can result in the loss of your right to own or possess a firearm.
Courts may also impose temporary restrictions as part of a restraining order, requiring you to surrender any firearms until the order is lifted. These restrictions are intended to enhance public safety and reduce the risk of further violence.
Another restriction you should be aware of is that, in most cases, it is illegal for individuals under age 21 to purchase a firearm. However, someone under age 21 may still be legally able to possess a firearm if it was received as a gift. If you are facing a firearms-related charge, an attorney in St. Augustine could provide you with legal assistance.
Common Gun Crimes
The state prosecutes firearms-related offenses aggressively, and even if you are a first-time offender, you could face harsh penalties. One of the most common gun crimes is unlawful possession. If you have prior felony convictions or are under certain legal restrictions, such as an active domestic violence injunction, you may not legally own or carry firearms. If you are caught with a weapon in these circumstances, you could face serious charges.
Discharging a firearm unlawfully is also a common crime. This may include firing a gun in a public place, shooting from a vehicle, or recklessly discharging a weapon in a way that endangers others. These charges are treated seriously because of the significant risks to public safety. Possessing or selling an altered or defaced firearm can result in additional charges. If you modify a weapon with the intention of obscuring serial numbers or otherwise making it untraceable, you could be charged with a criminal offense.
However, it is important to note that each of these cases is defensible. Legal advice from a lawyer in St. Augustine could help you contest a firearms charge or secure a reasonable plea bargain that could keep your permanent record clean.
What About the Use of a Firearm During Another Crime?
Using a firearm while committing another crime is one of the most serious types of gun-related charges. The presence of a firearm elevates a standard offense to an aggravated one, and you could face more severe penalties. An attorney experienced in handling gun-related cases could defend your rights if you have been accused of a criminal offense in St. Augustine while armed.
Talk to a St. Augustine Gun Defense Attorney Today
If you have been accused of a weapons-related offense, it is critical that you secure the support of legal counsel as soon as possible. Facing these charges can be daunting, and it is natural to feel uncertain about your future.
At the Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A., our goal is to provide you with assurance and help you get the best possible outcome. For a free consultation, call us to speak to a St. Augustine gun lawyer. Problems? Pick Porter!™