Richardson Weapons Violations Lawyers

Attorneys for Firearm and Weapons Offenses in Richardson, TX

Texas has some of the most gun-friendly laws in the country. Some people may assume that they can carry a firearm almost anywhere without legal trouble. However, Texas firearm laws are full of exceptions, restricted locations, and eligibility rules that apply to gun owners. Police may arrest people based on claims that they carried or possessed a weapon unlawfully.

The lawyers at Texas Defense Firm provide legal help to people in Richardson who are facing weapons charges. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling firearm cases, including state-level gun crimes and federal weapons charges. We have over 200 years of combined experience, and we can provide the representation needed to resolve these matters successfully. We will work to find solutions that will protect a person's record and help them maintain their firearm rights.

Can People Carry a Handgun Without a License in Richardson, Texas?

Texas law allows many adults to possess and carry guns in public places without the need for licenses. However, the state's permitless carry law does not cover everyone or apply in every place. A person may be charged with unlawful carrying of a weapon if they have allegedly possessed a firearm in a situation such as:

• They Are Legally Barred From Owning a Firearm: This includes people with felony convictions and people subject to certain court orders.
• They Have Certain Recent Convictions: A conviction within the past five years for assault involving injuries, terroristic threats, or deadly conduct will disqualify a person from permitless carry.
• They Are Involved in Other Criminal Activity: Carrying a handgun while committing another offense, other than a minor traffic violation, is not protected.
• They Belong to a Criminal Street Gang: Gang membership bars a person from carrying a handgun in public.
• The Handgun Is Not Properly Holstered: A handgun that is partly or fully visible must be carried in a holster.

Unlawful carrying of a weapon is usually a Class A misdemeanor offense. A conviction may lead to up to one year in jail and/or a $4,000 fine.

Where Are Weapons Off-Limits in Richardson, Texas?

Even a person who is legally allowed to carry a handgun can face charges for bringing a gun into certain places. A person may face third-degree felony charges if they are accused of carrying a firearm into a location such as a school, courtroom, or the secured area of an airport.

These rules can catch some people by surprise. For example, a person may not realize that they are not allowed to carry a firearm on a public university campus. Private businesses may also post signs barring handguns, and a person who violates these rules could face criminal charges.

What Happens When a Felon Possesses a Firearm?

A person who has been convicted of a felony is not allowed to possess a firearm. This restriction will remain in place for five years after a person's release from prison or the completion of parole or community supervision. After that five-year period, Texas law may allow a person to keep a firearm in their home. A felon accused of possessing a firearm may face third-degree felony charges.

How Our Lawyers Can Assist With Weapons Charges

When a person has been arrested for an offense involving firearms or other weapons, certain factors may play a role in a case. How police officers found a firearm and whether a prosecutor can prove that the gun belonged to the defendant may be issues raised in a defense. Our team will carefully review the facts of a case to determine what defense strategies may be available.

In many cases, a person may face weapons charges after a traffic stop or a search by police. If an officer did not have a valid reason to stop a person, or if they searched a car or home without a search warrant, our attorneys may take steps to suppress the evidence found by police. We may also take steps to dispute the possession of a weapon. If a gun was found under a seat in a shared car or in a closet of a home where several people live, this does not automatically prove that a person knew the weapon was there or had control over it.

In cases involving possession of a firearm by a felon or another prohibited person, we can review whether a person actually falls into a prohibited category. Old convictions, deferred adjudications, and expired protective orders may not always disqualify a person from possessing a weapon.

Contact Our Richardson, Texas Weapons Charges Attorneys

A weapons conviction can cost you your freedom and your right to own firearms in the future. The laws that may address weapons possession and use can be complicated, and a strong defense starts with understanding exactly which rules apply to your situation. At Texas Defense Firm, our attorneys can help you determine the best steps to take to defend against charges of unlawful carrying of a firearm, felon in possession of a firearm, or any other weapons offense. Contact our Richardson, TX weapons charges lawyers at 972-369-0577 to schedule a free consultation.