You may unintentionally break the law and face criminal gun charges if you allow your permit to carry a concealed weapon expire, or you forget to lock your gun case and a child gains possession of the weapon. A firearm is a deadly weapon that is capable of shooting projectiles regardless of whether it is unloaded or temporarily inoperable. That includes any rifle, pistol or portable gun, automatic or semi-automatic rifle or a sawed-off shotgun. A zip gun or crude firearm, a starter's pistol or a safety device like a flare gun are also in the category of deadly weapons. Ohio has strict gun laws and if you are in violation, you need to speak with a defense lawyer immediately, as penalties can mean jail or prison, fines and a criminal record.
There are laws in place to control the use of guns so people avoid hurting themselves and others. If one knowingly engages in illegal gun use, the offenses can range from a misdemeanor to a major felony. Carrying a concealed firearm without a proper permit and improperly handling a firearm in a motor vehicle are both violations of state law. Selling, buying or otherwise transacting or being in unlawful possession of a firearm are criminal activities and made worse if a gun is provided to a minor. The use of a gun or any firearm while intoxicated is a violation.
Convicted felons cannot possess or use a firearm and if caught, the individual may face a charge of a felony in the 3rd degree. The improper discharge of a firearm near or over a public roadway, at or near a cemetery, or into an occupied structure also violates gun laws. If one knowingly fires a gun within 1,000 feet of a school or safety zone and the act causes a panic and evacuation of the grounds, the violator will probably face serious charges.
Most cases for unlawful use of firearms are a misdemeanor charge. For a minor misdemeanor it is a maximum fine of $150. A 4th to 1st degree minor penalties can mean a maximum 180 days in jail, and fines up to $1,000. Felonies in the 5th degree to 1st degree can carry a sentence of 6 months to 10 years in prison, and fines from $2,500 to $20,000.
Our Columbus criminal attorneys can explain what charges for a gun offense can mean to your future. Call The Meranda Law Firm LTD today.