Florida has relatively few restrictions on the purchase and possession of firearms compared to many other states, especially in light of recent legislative steps to make Florida a “permitless concealed carry” state. That said, there are still regulations established under state law governing where you can lawfully carry a firearm and who is legally allowed to own one. Violating gun laws can have serious repercussions if you are convicted, including hefty fines and even time behind bars.
If you are facing gun-related criminal charges, you should make contacting an expert Kendall gun lawyer one of your top priorities. These kinds of charges can be tricky to contest in an effective and proactive way, but the expert team at Rossen Law Firm is here to help. Guidance from the best defense attorneys can help you achieve the best possible case result.
Permitless Concealed Carry Laws
Starting July 1, 2023, lawful gun owners in Florida can carry a firearm concealed on their person without first needing to apply for and obtain a concealed carry permit. This change stems from House Bill 543, which Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law on April 3, 2023, in an effort to loosen Florida’s restrictions on firearm ownership.
Even with this change in effect, there are still a few conditions that Florida residents need to meet in order to carry concealed without a permit. More specifically, this right is only granted to United States citizens who are at least 21 years old and have no history of criminal
convictions for any felony offenses, any crime involving drug abuse and/or violence, or any misdemeanor domestic violence offense.
Additionally, individuals who have been dishonorably discharged from military service or have a history of substance abuse or mental instability may still be prohibited from carrying concealed. As a
Kendall gun attorney can further explain, the new law means that there will be no requirement to pass an approved firearm training course and demonstrate competency with firearm operation before being allowed to carry concealed.
Restrictions on Gun Possession and Ownership
Even with this new law in place, it will still remain illegal in Florida to carry a lawfully owned firearm into a police station, a courthouse, any school building or event not related to firearms, a bar, or anywhere else federal law prohibits firearm possession. Furthermore, open carry outside your own home, vehicle, or place of business is generally prohibited in Florida for all gun owners, regardless of whether you are lawfully in possession of the firearm you are open carrying.
Finally, anyone who possesses a firearm after being convicted of a disqualifying criminal offense, without lawful immigrant status, or with any other disqualifying conditions placed on them may be subject to severe criminal penalties, which may include years behind bars. Support from a top lawyer can be vital to fighting back effectively against these kinds of gun charges in Kendall.
Schedule a Strategy Session With a Kendall Gun Attorney Today
Criminal cases involving the unlawful possession or use of firearms tend to have extremely high stakes, even by the usual standards of criminal prosecution. If you fail to build and execute a strong defense strategy, you may find yourself facing life-altering criminal sanctions, even if this is your first time being charged with any kind of crime.
Representation from a tenacious Kendall gun lawyer can be key to enforcing your rights and minimizing the impact this type of charge will have on your life. We are committed to defending your right to carry, and we will fight hard to ensure your freedoms are protected during a criminal investigation and beyond.
Contact our office today to get started.