Your Defense Against Concealed Weapon/Firearm Charges in Orlando
Many people who are charged with concealed weapon or firearm charges do not have a prior criminal record. They are otherwise law-abiding citizens who carry a weapon for self defense, hunting or for target practice. However, police and prosecutors who are under pressure to appear tough on crime aggressively prosecute weapons cases.
At The Bigney Law Firm in Orlando, Florida, our lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights if you have been charged with carrying a concealed weapon or firearm. We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and explore defenses.
What is Carrying a Concealed Weapon/Firearm?
You can be charged with carrying a concealed firearm if you carry a gun on your person or in close proximity (such as under your car seat) without a license. In most cases, it is not illegal to carry a gun in the trunk or glove compartment of your vehicle. Carrying a concealed firearm without a license is a third-degree felony in Florida, punishable by up to five years in prison. If you are a convicted felon and you are charged with possession of a firearm, the State will aggressive seek to have the court sentence you to a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three years (day for day with no gain time).
Police will even charge people with carrying a concealed weapon for carrying or being near a machete, a knife, brass knuckles, a nunchuck, a baseball bat or anything else that can be used as a weapon. Carrying a concealed weapon is a misdemeanor in Florida.
Florida's 10-20-Life Law mandates a minimum 10 year prison term if you are convicted of committing certain felonies while possessing a firearm or a weapon
Defenses in Weapons Cases
Evaluating your concealed weapons possession case begins with your initial contact with police. Some of the things that we look for that can aid in the development of your defense include:
- If the weapons were found under the seat of your car, why did police pull you over?
- If the weapon was on your person, why did they stop you?
If the police had no lawful reason to stop you or to search you after the stop, or experienced criminal defense team may be able to help you avoid being convicted of weapons charges.
Learn more about illegal search and seizure.
Free Case Evaluation
If you face concealed weapon charges, your best defense is to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. To schedule a free case evaluation with an attorney at the Bigney Law Firm, call 407-792-2923 any time of the day or night or fill out our contact form. For your convenience, our office is located in downtown Orlando, Florida, one block behind the courthouse. Se habla Español.
