Were you charged with possessing a weapon on school grounds in McKinney, Texas? This is a serious offense that can lead to lifelong consequences. However, you may still be able to fight back effectively and secure a favorable outcome.
At Texas Defense Firm, our attorneys have over 200 years of combined experience defending clients across the state, including those accused of weapons charges. We are ready to use our experience and skill to protect your rights and your future.
Call our law offices today at (972) 369-0577 to schedule a consultation with our McKinney weapon charges lawyers to talk about your case and learn about your legal options.
How Texas Defense Firm Can Help if You’re Charged With a Weapons Offense on School Property in McKinney, TX
Weapons cases involving schools in McKinney, TX, are handled aggressively by prosecutors and law enforcement. To defend yourself, you need a McKinney criminal defense attorney who knows both Texas firearm laws and how to challenge the prosecution’s evidence against you at every stage.
When you hire Texas Defense Firm, we can:
- Investigate the facts of your arrest, including whether police followed proper search and seizure procedures
- Examine whether the weapon was truly in your possession or under your control
- File motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully
- Challenge the state’s interpretation of the law and intent behind your possession
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing when possible
- Represent you vigorously in court if your case proceeds to trial
A minor mistake—such as accidentally bringing a firearm to a school—can have serious criminal implications in Texas. Contact our McKinney weapons charges attorneys today to get started with your defense.
Texas Law on Weapons at Schools
Per Texas Penal Code § 46.03, it’s generally a felony offense to “intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly possesses or goes with a firearm, location-restricted knife, club, or prohibited weapon” in certain sensitive areas.
Sensitive areas include:
- Any public or private school premises
- School buses and other vehicles used to transport students
- School-sponsored events held anywhere, whether on or off school property
This law applies to all levels of schools, from elementary and middle schools to universities and technical colleges. There are only limited exceptions. For instance, peace officers and certain personnel may lawfully carry weapons on school grounds under specific conditions. However, these exceptions are narrow and often do not apply to the general public.
A McKinney criminal defense attorney can provide guidance on the specific circumstances that might permit carrying a weapon, such as for security personnel with proper authorization or individuals participating in a law enforcement-approved firearms training program.
Penalties for Possessing a Weapon on School Grounds in Texas
The penalties for violating Texas’s weapon restrictions depend on the type of weapon and where the offense occurred.
For most cases involving firearms on school property, the offense is classified as a third-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. If other aggravating factors are involved—such as evidence of intent to use the weapon—the penalties may be even more severe.
Misdemeanor charges, which may apply in some circumstances, can still carry jail time and lead to a permanent criminal record.
Collateral Consequences of a Conviction of a Weapons Charge
Convictions can also have long-term collateral consequences, including:
- Ineligibility for certain jobs and professional licenses
- Restrictions on future firearm ownership
- Suspension or expulsion from school
- Immigration complications for non-citizens
It’s critical to contact a weapons charges attorney in McKinney as soon as possible after an arrest, considering what’s at stake.
What Defenses Can I Raise to Weapons Charges in Texas?
Being accused of possessing a weapon on school grounds as a defendant doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted. Texas law provides multiple potential defenses, depending on the facts of the case.
Defenses your criminal defense lawyer can raise may include:
- Lack of intent: You didn’t knowingly possess and bring the weapon onto school property.
- Lawful authorization: You were legally permitted to carry due to your role (for example, security personnel).
- Unlawful search and seizure: The weapon was discovered during an illegal stop or search, violating your Fourth Amendment rights.
- False accusations or mistaken identity: The weapon belonged to someone else, or the facts have been misrepresented.
At Texas Defense Firm, our lawyers can thoroughly investigate your circumstances and craft a strategy tailored to the available evidence and the law.
Contact Our McKinney Weapons Charges Attorneys for Legal Help Today
A weapons charge involving a school is one of the most serious offenses you can face in McKinney, Texas. However, being accused is not the same as being convicted. Texas Defense Firm is here to stand up for you and fight for your rights to the best of our ability under state law.
Contact our McKinney weapons charges lawyers today to schedule an initial consultation. We’re passionate about our work and are ready to put our experience to work for you.