Philadelphia Gun Lawyer
The State of Pennsylvania has a wide range of laws and regulations related to gun ownership. The Second Amendment of our Constitution guarantees your right to bear arms, but that does not mean there are no restrictions on gun ownership in Philadelphia.
If you are alleged to have violated one of these restrictions, it may be in your best interest to discuss your case with a Philadelphia gun lawyer. A dedicated criminal attorney could advocate for you.
Laws Governing Guns
Pennsylvania has a number of statutes related to firearm possession, ownership, and use. These include regulations regarding concealed carry of a firearm, gun registries, and stand your ground laws.
Concealed Carry Permits
It is lawful to carry a concealed handgun in Philadelphia with the proper license. According to 18 Pa.C.S. § 6109, a license is necessary for a person to carry a handgun on their body, in their vehicle, or during an official state of emergency.
Gun Registry Laws
State law prevents the government from creating any form of gun registry according to 18 Pa.C.S. § 6111.4. However, it does allow a database of all handgun sales throughout the state.
Stand Your Ground Laws
Pennsylvania has what is known as a “stand your ground” law. Stand your ground allows a homeowner to use deadly force if confronted with a deadly weapon in our around their home. For more information, consult with an accomplished lawyer.
Common Gun Crimes in Philadelphia
Philadelphia gun crimes come in many different varieties. In some cases, these crimes deal with the unlawful possession of a firearm. In other cases, the crimes involve some type of illegal use of a gun. This does not have to involve the firing of a weapon, as it is a crime to merely point or threaten with a firearm. Some of the most common gun charges include:
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Armed robbery
- Carrying a concealed weapon without a license
- Aggravated assault
- Failure to relinquish firearms after a restraining order
Typical Penalties For a Gun Offense
Regardless of the type of gun crime, the penalties for a conviction can be steep. It can include long-term incarceration as well as a hefty fine. For example, a conviction for carrying a concealed weapon without a license is a third-degree felony. It will carry a maximum sentence of up to seven years behind bars as well as a maximum fine of up to $15,000.
On the other hand, a charge of a felon in possession of a firearm is a second-degree felony. If convicted, it will carry a maximum prison sentence of ten years as well as a fine of no more than $25,000.
The penalties prescribed by statute for each gun offense are not the only consequences. Most gun crime convictions are felonies, which can lead to the loss of the right to vote or the right to own firearms.
With a felony conviction, it can also make obtaining housing or employment extremely difficult. While these collateral consequences can be life-altering, an experienced Philadelphia gun lawyer may be able to help limit their impact.
Speak with a Philadelphia Gun Attorney Today
If you face charges for a gun crime in Philadelphia, an experienced attorney may be able to defend you at trial and protect your rights. When a Philadelphia gun lawyer takes your case, they will have the opportunity to review the evidence against you and build your defense around the facts of your case.
