What Are the Laws Surrounding the Carry of Firearms in Texas?

 Posted on June 17, 2021 in Criminal Defense

In the United States, the Second Amendment to the Constitution states that each citizen has the right to bear arms or to own guns. However, individual states are permitted to interpret that in nearly whatever way they see fit by creating and enforcing laws that govern the sale, distribution, use, and possession of firearms in the state. In Texas, you must have a permit to carry a handgun, either concealed or unconcealed. If you violate Texas firearm laws, you can expect to be charged with a crime depending on the circumstances surrounding your case.

Unlawful Carrying Weapons Charges

Under Texas law, a person who wishes to carry a firearm is required to have a valid permit to be in legal possession of the gun. In some cases, it is not legal for a person to be carrying a handgun. You can be charged with unlawful carrying of a weapon if you intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carry a handgun and you are not on your own property, inside of your vehicle, or directly en route to your vehicle.

If you are charged with unlawful carrying of a weapon, you face a Class A misdemeanor. This means that an unlawful carrying of a weapon charge can come with up to one year in jail and up to $4,000 in fines.

Places Where Weapons are Prohibited

You can also find yourself in trouble with the law if you carry a weapon in a place where weapons are prohibited. You can be charged with a violation if you bring a firearm to:

• School grounds or on any vehicle that is used for transporting students
• The location of a polling place on the date of an election
• A racetrack
• A government court or offices used by the court
• The secured area of an airport
• A location within 1,000 feet of an execution site on the day execution is to take place

Contact an Atascosa County Weapons Charges Defense Attorney Today

Owning a firearm may be a right that is given to citizens in the constitution, but states can create laws as they see fit. If you have been arrested and/or charged with any type of firearm or related charge, you should speak with a skilled Pleasanton, TX criminal defense lawyer. At BRCK Criminal Defense Attorneys, our team is here to help you with whatever type of criminal charge you may be facing, including a weapons charge. To schedule a free consultation, call our office today at 830-769-1010.

Sources:

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PE/htm/PE.46.htm#46.02

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PE/htm/PE.12.htm