You need dedicated legal representation considering the tough stance of Florida on gun crimes. The consequences of a conviction for a crime involving a firearm can be severe and life-altering. Our Tampa firearm possession attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett are ready to use their legal insight, experience, and resources to defend you if you face firearm possession charges.

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm in Florida

Weapons are any objects used for threatening or harming another person, while firearms are weapons that fire bullets. If you possess a weapon or firearm without proper license or documentation, you may get charged with a felony. Even with a valid firearm license, there are restrictions on how and where to transport it.

Talk to our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett to protect your rights to bear arms and successfully navigate the intricate legal process. In Florida, you can be charged with unlawful possession of a firearm in the following scenarios:

  • You have a firearm without a valid license or permit
  • You have a firearm in violation of federal or state law
  • You have a firearm that has been banned in your state

Examples of Illegal Firearm Possession in Florida

You should expect to face jail time and pay a fine if convicted. The penalty for illegal firearm possession depends on various factors, such as:

  • Where the crime took place
  • Whether children were present
  • Whether the firearm was present during the commission of a crime

These are a few examples of illegal firearm possession in Florida:

  • In a detention facility, jail, or prison
  • At a place of nuisance or where criminal activity is occurring
  • In a police, highway patrol, or sheriff station
  • At a polling place
  • In a courtroom, courthouse, or legislative committee
  • In the passenger terminal of an airport
  • At a school administration event or in a school admin building

You should immediately consult an illegal firearm possession attorney if you are charged with a crime.

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All Weapons Charges are Not the Same

Under Florida law, sentences can be given individually or combined. Illegal possession of firearms and weapons can be charged as a felony or misdemeanor. Still, the type of charge you face will depend on the unique circumstances surrounding your case and criminal history. For example:

  • If you are a previous felon or have previous charges, you must serve a prison sentence between 3 and 15 years.
  • Allowing a minor to possess a firearm is considered a second-degree misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 60 days in prison.
  • Possessing a weapon without a valid license is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 in fines.

Discuss a Winning Defense Strategy with our Florida Firearms Possession Attorneys

If you were charged with a crime related to weapons or firearms, the capable, competent, and resourceful Tampa firearm possession lawyers at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett can help you build a strong defense after considering all available legal options. At Carlson Meissner & Hayslett, our attorneys have years of experience and will protect your rights every step of the way.

To request your free, no-obligation consultation, call us at 877-728-9653 or complete our online form.

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