Weapons Charges: Unlawful Possession And Use

In Texas, laws regulate the use and possession of weapons. Although the state’s weapons laws are fairly lax, harsh consequences accompany possession of an illegal weapon and unlawful discharge or carrying of a weapon. After a weapons offense charge, get legal help from Lanzillo Law, PLLC.

Possession Of Illegal Weapons

While many weapons charges relate to firearms, Texas law prohibits the use, sale, ownership, transport or repair of the following:

• Explosive weapons
• Machine guns
• Short-barreled rifles and shotguns
• Devices that dispense chemicals
• Armor piercing ammunition
• Brass knuckles
• Improvised handguns (zip guns)
• Tire deflation devices (such as spikes)

In certain cases, you can lawfully possess these weapons. The penalties for possession of an illegal weapon vary depending on the circumstances of the crime for which you are charged.

Conceal And Carry Violations

If you have a license to carry, you can still face a weapons charge if you carry your weapon in a prohibited place or brandish it unlawfully. Firearms crimes for licensed carriers include:

• Ignoring a prohibited carry warning sign
• Improper display of a handgun
• Illegal possession of a firearm in prohibited locations
• Reckless discharge
• Carrying a firearm while intoxicated

Law enforcement uses enhanced penalties for committing a crime while in possession of a gun or unlawful possession of a firearm. Even if you committed a weapons offense unknowingly, you need strong legal representation to influence the outcome of your case. If you can lawfully own firearms, a weapons charge could result in the loss of that privilege.

A Lawyer Who Will Protect Your Right To Bear Arms

Get the help you need to fight a weapons charge by calling my Plano office at 972-645-4753
 or sending me an email to schedule an appointment. I assist clients throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.