Gun Offenses in Pittsburgh
Every state, and even every county and city, has a unique set of laws that govern gun possession. Gun laws includes type of gun, possession, permits, and charges pressed if the laws are violated.
Pennsylvania has some of the strictest firearm regulations in the United States, meaning that the process to legally obtain and license a gun is extensive, and sometimes confusing. Because of the complexity of gun control, individuals charged with gun related offenses are often not aware that they are breaking the law.
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Overview of Pennsylvania Gun Law
While the 2nd Amendment protects your rights to possess guns, individual states have the right to control which weapons are legal, how the may be obtained, how they must be licensed, and even how they must be stored. Being in violation of any of these laws can generate serious criminal charges.
Individuals Not Allowed to Possess, Use, Manufacture, or Sell Firearms
The following groups of people are not eligible to manufacture, purchase, sell, possess, or use firearms:
- Those charged and convicted with violent crime (felony or misdemeanor)
- Undocumented immigrants
- Persons under the age of 18
- Those convicted of three or more DUI charges within a five year period
- Those convicted under **certain sections of the Controlled Substance Act
- Those declared as mentally ill
- Those subject to active protection from abuse orders
Conviction from violating one of these possession laws carries penalties ranging from 1st degree misdemeanors to up to **twenty years in prison.
Possession of Firearm with Altered Serial Number
If you are in possession of a gun offenses with a serial number that is altered in any way, including removal and blemishing, ** you could be charged with a 2nd degree felony charge.
Concealed Weapons, License and Carrying
If you are found to be in possession of a concealed firearm registered in your name, be it stored in your vehicle or on your person, you could face charges of a 1st degree misdemeanor and up to five years in prison. If the concealed firearm is registered to another person, you could face a 3rd degree felony charge with up to seven years in prison.
Put Knowledge on Your Side
For more information regarding Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania gun **laws, from permits to possession, call our law firm at (412) 276-5896. Attorney Joseph Horowitz fully understands gun regulation in Pittsburgh and can review your case for gun offenses and related charges. With experience in criminal defense and successful outcomes for many clients, Joseph Horowitz is a defense lawyer you can trust.