Firearms have long been heavily regulated on both the state and federal levels. While the Second Amendment to the Constitution provides for the right to bear arms, the failure to comply with state regulations could carry steep consequences. A Junction City gun lawyer could advise you of these rights and regulations while helping you defend yourself against allegations of firearm crimes.
Gun offenses can result in lasting consequences if you are convicted. Thankfully, you have the right to fight back against these charges. A goal-oriented criminal defense attorney could help you develop a winning strategy in your case.
Kansas allows for a wide range of legal options when it comes to carrying firearms. It is an “open carry” state, meaning the law allows adults to legally carry firearms in the open without the need for a permit. Weapons can also be kept opening in vehicles without a license as well, so long as there are no city ordinances that prohibit it.
The state also has robust laws allowing for the concealed carry of firearms. Unlike with open carry, a person must obtain a license in order to carry a concealed firearm. A concealed carry license is an option for most people 21 years of age or older. A person with an honorable discharge or proof of active military service may obtain a concealed weapon permit at 19.
The possession of a firearm is not always legal. Some individuals are barred from owning or possessing these weapons. Alternatively, the possession of a firearm could also be unlawful in certain areas or under specific circumstances. Together, these actions are known as criminal possession of a firearm.
It is unlawful to carry a firearm into schools, from kindergarten through 12th grade. The only exception is for law enforcement officers. Convicted felons and domestic abusers also lose their right to own a firearm. There could be both state and federal consequences for these individuals should they possess a gun.
The state also has regulations on gun ownership by persons who are addicts and users of controlled substances. While obtaining this designation is uncommon, it can limit a person’s right to own a firearm. Those charged with criminal possession of a firearm should speak with a local defense attorney right away.
Some gun crimes center not on who possesses the weapon, but on the manner in which they carry it. There are different circumstances that qualify as the criminal use of a firearm. One common example is possessing, manufacturing, or modifying a shotgun with a short barrel. For these weapons to be legal, the barrel must be at least 18 inches in length.
Other limitations on firearms involve automatic weapons. It is illegal for a person to own, possess, sell, or give away a gun with the ability to discharge more than one round with a single pull of the trigger. An attorney in Junction City could advise a gun owner on whether or not they have violated any of these regulations.
If you are facing gun charges, it is vital that you seek the advice of an attorney right away. Your attorney could evaluate your case and explain your chances of avoiding a conviction.
Let a skilled attorney help you develop the right strategy for your case. Call right away to put your case in the hands of a Junction City gun lawyer.