Understanding Unlawful Firearm Possession in Maryland

Maryland gun regulations are designed to keep illegal firearms off the streets and out of the hands of people who want to commit crimes with them. With this goal in mind, the law specifies that a potential gun owner must have a valid reason to possess a weapon and be able to bring it outside of their home.

If someone violates these strict regulations, they could face significant consequences that may impact their life for years following their arrest. If you have been accused of illegally owning or carrying a gun, you should speak with a knowledgeable and diligent attorney. They could help you understand unlawful firearm possession in Maryland and prepare you for the legal process.

How Might an Individual Receive an Unlawful Possession Charge?

Police may charge an individual with unlawful possession if they find a gun on their person while detaining them for another offense. This is common in offenses such as trespassing, shoplifting, destruction of property, or drug-related crimes. It is important to note that an individual does not have to be firing or using their weapon in some other capacity for police to charge someone with unlawful possession. Someone who simply has gun on their person without a proper license is in violation of the law.

Penalties

In Maryland, unlawful possession of a gun carries the maximum penalty is two years in jail with a minimum penalty of 30 days, depending on the seriousness of the situation. In addition, an accused individual may receive fines or a period of probation.

Unlawful possession of a firearm in a gun-free zone is a strict enhancement. Judges have the discretion to impose the most severe punishments on individuals who bring weapons into gun-free zones. For example, if an individual brings this weapon into a school zone, a judge may punish this person with a five-year prison sentence. An experienced lawyer could help an accused individual understand the potential penalties they may be facing if they are facing allegations of unlawful possession of a gun in Maryland.

Gun Crime and Illegal Possession

In recent years, there has been an upsurge in homicides by firearm and other related gun crimes. As a result, lawmakers have created stricter laws making it harder to obtain concealed carry permits, and penalties for that have increased. Some local jurisdictions have imposed their own, much stricter, gun-free zones that make firearm possession completely illegal, even for people without a concealed carry permit.

Contact a Maryland Attorney for Help Understanding Illegal Firearm Possession

The law only allows certain individuals to owe and carry guns to protect others from those who may use these weapons to conduct dangerous crimes. Therefore, law enforcement takes these charges seriously and places punishments on individuals accordingly. If law enforcement has charged you with unlawfully owning a gun, you should reach out to well-practiced legal counsel who could help build a case in your defense.  For more assistance understanding unlawful firearm possession in Maryland, schedule an initial consultation on your case.