Kansas state law establishes very few restrictions on the rights of residents to possess and carry firearms. However, there are still a few circumstances under which you could face serious criminal repercussions for improperly possessing, brandishing, or discharging a gun, potentially including the permanent loss of your right to own a firearm.
If you were accused of any kind of gun-related offense, speaking with a Manhattan gun lawyer about your legal options may be in your best interests. With guidance from a skilled criminal defense attorney who has handled similar cases before, you could greatly increase your odds of getting a favorable resolution from your criminal case.
State law does not require U.S. citizens or lawful U.S. residents in Manhattan, Kansas to acquire a license before purchasing a firearm through a private sale, nor does it require firearms to be registered with state authorities. However, a background check may be required for a Manhattan resident looking to purchase a gun from a Federal Firearms Dealer, as federal background check laws would apply in that case.
Any person who is at least 18 years old and has no history of felony convictions, involuntary detainment in a mental health institution, drug addiction, or misdemeanor DUI or domestic violence convictions is allowed to open carry a handgun in Manhattan. Furthermore, since Kansas is a constitutional carry state, individuals who are at least 21 years old with no history of disqualifying criminal convictions or other such issues may concealed carry a handgun within state borders.
However, most Manhattan residents cannot open or concealed carry any firearm into certain locations, including police stations, government buildings, courthouses, and K-12 schools. In addition, any Kansas resident who wants to concealed carry out-of-state must acquire a Concealed Carry of Deadly Weapons permit, the requirements for which include the completion of a state-approved firearms training class. A knowledgeable Manhattan gun attorney could offer further clarification about what restrictions may apply to firearm possession in particular public and private areas.
While state law generally does not restrict local residents from carrying concealed, there are a few circumstances under which unlawful concealed carry could lead to class A or class B misdemeanor charges, including:
However, the possession of prohibited guns such as automatic weapons, or the possession of any firearm by someone previously convicted of a domestic violence offense or any felony offense, could lead to serious felony consequences.
Furthermore, even if someone is legally allowed to possess a firearm, they could face significantly enhanced penalties upon conviction for certain other offenses if they possessed or used a legally owned firearm during the commission of that crime. Anyone in Manhattan accused of using a deadly weapon while committing assault, burglary, or any other offense should get in touch with a seasoned firearm lawyer as soon as possible.
For the most part, state law does little to infringe upon your Second Amendment rights as a Manhattan resident. However, if you do find yourself charged with a crime related to firearm ownership, it is important that you take your case seriously, as a conviction could lead to a significant limitation or even the permanent loss of your rights in addition to steep fines and possibly prison time.
Working with a Manhattan gun lawyer could be the best way for you to preserve your future prospects and protect yourself from the severe consequences of a criminal conviction. Call today to discuss the possibilities in your situation with a seasoned legal professional.
