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If you are facing firearm possession charges in North Carolina, including unlawful possession of a firearm or possession of a stolen firearm, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights. At Randall Law, our skilled firearm defense attorneys have decades of experience successfully defending clients and obtaining charge dismissals. Don’t risk your future or your reputation—schedule a case evaluation today by calling (980) 237-4579.
Unlawful possession of a firearm is one of the most common gun offenses in North Carolina. State law and Charlotte city ordinances prohibit specific individuals, such as convicted felons, individuals subject to domestic violence restraining orders, and those with certain mental health restrictions, from carrying or possessing firearms. The law also restricts the possession of firearms in specific locations, including schools, government buildings, and certain public areas.
Violations of these laws can result in arrest and charges ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the circumstances and the individual’s criminal history. Even responsible gun owners can face charges if they inadvertently violate these regulations, making it essential to understand the statutes and legal consequences surrounding firearm possession in North Carolina.
North Carolina law classifies a wide range of firearm and weapon offenses, each carrying its own potential penalties and legal consequences. Understanding the different types of charges can help you see why having an experienced defense attorney is critical if you are facing any weapon-related allegations.
Being a felon in possession of a firearm is one of the most serious gun charges in North Carolina. If you have one or more prior felony convictions, your gun rights are permanently restricted—you cannot purchase, own, possess, or control any firearm or weapon of mass destruction. Conviction carries a Class G felony sentence, which may include a prison term of 10 to 25 months, fines, and probation.
It is illegal to willfully carry a concealed weapon, including firearms, knives, metallic knuckles, stun guns, and other deadly weapons, except in limited circumstances. Exceptions include carrying a firearm on your property or having a valid Concealed Carry Permit, which still comes with restrictions. Violations can result in a Class 2 misdemeanor or a Class H felony, depending on the circumstances.
Carrying a concealed handgun while consuming alcohol, even with a permit, is illegal. This includes situations where alcohol has been recently consumed and remains in your system. Convictions can carry criminal penalties and potentially affect your ability to carry firearms in the future legally.
If you are found in possession of a stolen firearm, you can face felony charges, even if the firearm could not be fired at the time of the theft. Air rifles and air pistols are exceptions. North Carolina law classifies this as a serious felony due to the potential danger posed by firearms.
Altering, defacing, destroying, or removing a firearm’s serial number is illegal. Knowing possession, sale, or purchase of a firearm with a removed or altered serial number is also a criminal offense. Violations are typically classified as a Class H felony.
It is illegal to possess a firearm on any educational property, including buses, campuses, athletic fields, or other school-owned property. Charges can range from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class G felony depending on the circumstances. The law is strict to protect students, staff, and school visitors.
Under Charlotte city ordinances, firearms are prohibited on city-owned or controlled property, including Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Violations can result in TSA fines and a separate misdemeanor charge for possession on city property. Possession of a firearm at the airport is treated seriously due to public safety concerns in secure areas.
North Carolina law prohibits manufacturing, possessing, storing, transporting, or acquiring weapons of mass destruction. This includes bombs, grenades, missiles, mines, fully automatic firearms, and other weapons capable of mass harm. Conviction for these offenses carries severe felony penalties due to the extreme danger posed to the public.
The penalties for unlawful firearm possession in North Carolina can be severe and vary depending on whether the offense is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. Key consequences include:
Due to the serious legal and personal consequences, it is crucial to collaborate with an experienced Charlotte firearm defense attorney. An attorney from Randall Law can help reduce penalties, explore alternative sentencing options, and fight to protect your rights.
If you are charged with unlawful firearm possession in Charlotte, there are several defenses that a skilled attorney from Randall Law can use to challenge the charges. An experienced firearm defense lawyer will carefully review the circumstances of your case, the evidence against you, and whether law enforcement followed proper procedures during your arrest and investigation.
Common defenses may include:
A strong defense can significantly affect the outcome of your case, potentially reducing or dismissing charges and minimizing penalties. Speaking with a Charlotte firearm defense lawyer as soon as possible ensures that your rights are protected and that every legal avenue is explored.
Facing an unlawful firearm possession charge in Charlotte can carry serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and long-term restrictions on your gun rights. Randall Law has extensive experience defending clients against all types of firearm offenses, from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
Our attorneys can help by:
With a strategic defense, Randall Law aims to minimize penalties, preserve your future, and give you the best possible chance of a favorable outcome. Contacting an experienced Charlotte firearm defense attorney as soon as possible can make a critical difference in your case.
Unlawful firearm possession occurs when someone prohibited by law, such as a convicted felon, someone under a domestic violence restraining order, or a person with certain mental health restrictions, has a firearm. It can also include carrying a gun in restricted areas, like schools, government buildings, or specific public locations. Both state law and local ordinances define what constitutes a violation.
Yes, depending on the circumstances, a first-time firearm possession offense can be charged as a felony. Factors include prior criminal history, the type of firearm, and the location where the firearm is possessed. Even without previous convictions, possession in restricted areas or of certain weapons can elevate the charge from a misdemeanor to a felony.
Penalties vary depending on whether the offense is a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanors can result in up to 60 days of jail time for first offenses, while felony charges can lead to months or years of incarceration, fines, probation, and permanent restrictions on firearm rights. Additional consequences may affect employment, housing, and other civil opportunities.
Common defenses include lack of knowledge or intent, illegal search and seizure, mistaken identity, and lawful exemptions for possession. An experienced attorney will review the facts, identify errors in the prosecution’s case, and use these defenses to seek reduced or dismissed charges. Proper legal guidance can significantly improve the outcome of the case.
It is critical to consult an experienced Charlotte firearm defense lawyer as soon as possible. These cases can carry serious consequences, and an attorney can review evidence, explore defenses, negotiate with prosecutors, and provide representation in court. Acting quickly helps protect your rights and can influence the severity of potential penalties.
If you are facing unlawful firearm possession charges in Charlotte, North Carolina, you need experienced legal representation on your side. Contact Randall Law today to schedule a case evaluation with a skilled firearm defense attorney who can protect your rights, explore every available defense, and fight to minimize penalties.
Contact us now at (980) 237-4579 or complete our online form to take the first step toward securing your future.
If you are arrested or charged with a crime for unlawful possession of a firearm or other weapon, do not hesitate to call our experienced Charlotte weapon crimes lawyers for help. We will thoroughly review your case and analyze the evidence. We will carefully weigh the facts that support charges versus those that support a defense. Then, we will determine the strongest defense to the charges and pursue the best possible outcome in your case.
Our team at Randall Law, Criminal Defense Attorneys has years of experience handling weapon crimes cases. We have the knowledge, experiences, and skills you need to defend yourself in a Charlotte, NC court. Contact us through our online contact form or call (980) 237-4579 to schedule your confidential consultation with a criminal defense attorney in Charlotte.
