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Many people in Texas are hunters. It is rural through most of the Texas Panhandle, and many people live on larger ranches where there is nobody around for miles. They carry guns for safety, not just against people, but due to the wild animals on their property. Throughout the state, the general feeling is that if someone is allowed to possess their own weapon, they can better protect themselves and the people around them. For this reason, gun laws have become less restrictive in the last couple of years.
Even though Midland is not as restrictive as other areas when it comes to firearm possession, there are still circumstances in which it is illegal to own or carry a firearm. If you were charged with a firearm offense, you should contact an experienced gun attorney as soon as possible. The penalties for unlawful possession are severe, but a Midland firearm possession lawyer could help defend you.
Lawful Possession a Firearm
The process to legally possess a firearm is not challenging in Midland. There is an age limit to possess a firearm, but assuming a person meets the age limit, they can buy a weapon after passing a criminal background check. The only thing they need a permit for is to either concealed carry or open carry in public. In order to receive those permits, they have to take and pass a class.
With valid registration and permits, someone can legally carry a firearm any time of the year. It is important to note that if they are going to carry the firearm in their vehicle, it does need to be not in plain view.
Gun-Free Zones
Areas with several children, like school zones, are still gun-free zones. A person cannot possess a weapon while on a school bus with children. Other gun-free zones can include some schools and hospitals which have put their own signs up indicating no one is to carry on these premises.
What to Avoid When Carrying a Firearm
If someone is out in public with a firearm, they are supposed to keep it in a holster. They cannot walk around with a gun in their hand nor take it out of their holster for any reason, other than self-defense or defense of others. For more information on lawfully carrying a gun, consult with a Midland firearm possession attorney.
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
The most common case in which firearm possession is unlawful is if an individual is a convicted felon. It is unlawful for a felon to possess a gun. If someone is in an act of committing a crime and has a firearm in their possession, that also makes it unlawful to possess that firearm.
If someone is charged with unlawful possession, they will receive a criminal charge and may need to hire a Midland firearm possession lawyer. An attorney could help the defendant avoid the serious penalties that come with gun charges.
Penalties for Unlawful Possession
If someone is a felon in possession of a firearm, it is automatically a third-degree felony and they are facing up to ten years in prison. If someone happens to be in possession of marijuana and a handgun at the same time, it automatically becomes a misdemeanor to possess the handgun at that time. This kind of unlawful possession charge can carry up to a year in jail.
A Midland Firearm Possession Attorney Could Help
Because firearms are so dangerous when used improperly, Texas prosecutors and judges take these charges very seriously. If you face gun charges, do not risk jail time by handling the case yourself. Contact a Midland firearm possession lawyer today to schedule a consultation.