Dallas Firearm Offenses Defense Lawyer

If you face weapon or firearm charges in Dallas, it can be a confusing and scary experience. Texas laws about guns and weapons are strict. Even a small mistake could lead to serious penalties, including jail time and fines. This guide will explain the most common types of weapon charges, what the laws say, and how you might defend yourself.

Common Types of Weapon Charges in Texas

Texas law covers many kinds of weapon offenses. These can range from minor crimes to serious felonies. Some of the common charges include:

• Carrying a gun illegally without the proper license.
• Possessing a weapon in a place where it is not allowed.
• Using a weapon while committing another crime.
• Discharging a firearm in an unsafe or illegal way.
• Selling or giving away a gun unlawfully.

Each charge has different rules and punishments. For example, carrying a handgun without a license might be a misdemeanor. But possessing certain weapons, like machine guns or explosive devices, is usually a felony.

Texas Open Carry and Concealed Carry Laws

Texas has changed its gun laws over the years. Since 2016, people with a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) can openly carry handguns in public. This means they can wear a handgun in a visible holster. Without a CHL, open carry or concealed carry is illegal and can lead to charges.

To get a CHL, you must meet certain requirements, including a background check and safety training. Even with a CHL, some places still ban guns, like schools and certain government buildings. Carrying a gun in those places can lead to serious legal trouble.

What Counts as an Illegal Weapon in Texas?

Texas law defines a list of weapons that are illegal to own or carry. These include:

• Machine guns, explosives, and grenades.
• Sawed-off shotguns or rifles.
• Brass knuckles.
• Switchblades and certain knives.
• Armor-piercing ammunition.
• Devices like mace or pepper spray can be restricted.

If you are caught with one of these weapons, the penalties are more severe. For example, possession of a machine gun can be a third-degree felony, carrying up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Brass knuckles might lead to a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine.

How Do Weapons Charges Happen?

Sometimes, people do not realize they are breaking the law until they are stopped or searched. Common situations include:

• Traffic stops where officers find a weapon in the car.
• Airport security checks discovering a gun in luggage.
• Police responding to calls where a weapon is involved.
• Being charged when someone claims you used a weapon in a crime.

Accidental possession, like forgetting a firearm is in your bag, is a common reason for charges. Even if you did not mean to break the law, you still need to take the charges seriously.

Restrictions After a Conviction

If you have been convicted of certain crimes, especially domestic violence or felonies, Texas law restricts your right to own or carry firearms. Usually, after a domestic violence conviction, you cannot legally possess a gun for at least five years after your release or probation.

Protective orders can also take away your right to carry a gun. If you have a protective order against you, carrying a weapon can lead to new charges.

Possible Penalties for Weapon Offenses

Penalties vary depending on the charge and weapon involved:

• Misdemeanor charges can mean up to a year in county jail and fines up to $4,000.
• Felony charges carry longer prison sentences, sometimes up to 10 years or more, and fines can reach $10,000.
• Being convicted can also affect your future, like losing the right to vote, own firearms, or getting jobs.

Why You Need a Lawyer for Weapons Charges

Weapon charges are serious. The law can be confusing, and mistakes can cost you a lot. A good defense lawyer can:

• Review the facts to see if your rights were violated during the stop or search.
• Check if the weapon was legally owned or carried.
• Find ways to reduce the charges or even get them dismissed.
• Help you understand your rights after a conviction.

Having an experienced lawyer can make a big difference in how your case turns out.

Contact Our Dallas Firearm Defense Lawyers Immediately

Reach out to THE experienced gun crimes lawyers at Gallian Firm immediately if you are facing these serious allegations. Unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon in Dallas can be a charge that not only gets you to prison, but can become a vital part aggravated charges against you. Call 214-432-8860 or visit online to schedule a consultation.