Carrying a Concealed Weapon

The state of Florida is among the most lenient states when it comes to firearms. With a proper permit, Florida residents can carry a concealed weapon or firearm. Even out-of-state visitors with valid permits can carry concealed weapons if their state offers concealed carry reciprocity. However, carrying a concealed weapon or firearm without a license is a felony that can affect your life forever. If you or someone you know has been charged with carrying a concealed weapon, contact an aggressive Tampa weapons attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A.

Under Florida Statute 790.06, it is legal for any person over the age of 21 to obtain a license to carry a concealed weapon or firearm. The statute defines concealed weapons as handguns, knives, and billie clubs, but not machine guns. In order to obtain a license, you must be of legal age with no prior felony convictions and no physical disabilities that would prevent safe usage of the weapon.

Florida Statute 790.015 allows out-of-state residents to carry concealed weapons under certain conditions. You must be over the age of 21 with a valid license to carry a concealed weapon in your own state, and your state must offer concealed carry reciprocity with the state of Florida (i.e. the state must honor Florida concealed weapon licenses).

Carrying a concealed weapon without a license is considered a third-degree felony. If convicted, you are facing five years in prison, five years of probation, and fines of up to $5,000. Not only will you face jail time, but you will have a permanent criminal record with a felony conviction, which can prohibit you from legally obtaining a concealed carry license. If you have been charged with carrying a concealed weapon, contact an experienced Tampa weapons attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A. today to fight for your freedom.

There are multiple exemptions and defenses to the crime of carrying a concealed weapon. A skilled attorney can utilize them all to your advantage. For example, it is legal to carry a concealed weapon around your home or your place of business. However, this exemption does not apply if you are in the home of another person. Another exemption is that of private conveyance—it is legal to carry a concealed weapon in your private vehicle so long as it is securely encased and not readily accessible. This means the weapon must be in a glove compartment, in a closed box or other container, or in a zippered or snapped holster or case. Additionally, the weapon must be not readily accessible in the vehicle (i.e. not underneath the seat you are sitting in).

Another defense to this crime is that the weapon was in ordinary sight. If it cannot be proven that the weapon was concealed, the crime of carrying a concealed weapon has not occurred.

If you or someone you know has been charged with the crime of carrying a concealed weapon, contact an aggressive Tampa weapons attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A. today. Call 813-444-3912 today for your free consultation.