St. Petersburg Weapons Charge Attorney

Only persons licensed to carry a concealed weapon or firearm are permitted to do so in Florida. State law draws a distinction between weapons and firearms. Carrying a concealed weapon without a license is a first-degree misdemeanor subject to imprisonment for up to one year and a fine of up to $1,000. Carrying a concealed firearm without a license is a felony of the third degree subject to imprisonment for up to five years and a fine of up to $5,000.

The definition of a weapon under Florida’s concealed carry law is fairly broad and includes the following:

• Dirk
• Metallic knuckles
• Slingshot
• Billy club
• Tear gas gun
• Chemical weapon or device
• Other deadly weapon

 By contrast, a concealed firearm includes any weapon, such as a handgun, that can expel a projectile by the action of an explosive. Machine guns are not included in the list of firearms for which a concealed license may be granted.

Obtaining a concealed weapon or firearm license requires, among other things, that the applicant is at least 21 years of age, has not committed a disqualifying felony, has not been committed in the past three years for abuse of a controlled substance and does not chronically or habitually use alcohol or other substances. A concealed carry permit also requires a demonstration of competence by completing certain education, safety or training courses.

If you are charged with violating the concealed carry law, you should immediately contact a criminal defense lawyer capable of challenging the government’s case by questioning the procedures followed by law enforcement leading to your arrest, the nature and reliability of evidence and witnesses offered by the prosecution and other factors crucial to an effective defense.

For a free consultation, call Joseph Montrone, Jr. at (727) 617-6095 today.