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Experienced Raleigh Criminal Defense Attorneys Defend Against Tough Gun Possession Charges

The guidance and advice you need when facing serious accusations

The U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to bear arms, but state and federal laws ban the possession of firearms in certain areas and for some people who have criminal records. If you have been arrested for gun possession in North Carolina, consult a knowledgeable Raleigh criminal defense lawyer with Hatch, Little & Bunn, LLP. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting your constitutional rights, as we have done for people throughout the region since the 1950s. Every person who seeks our services is important to us, so place your trust in the passionate legal advocates with our firm.

Concealed carry and gun laws in North Carolina

In October 2013, a new state law expanded the rights of concealed carry permit holders to allow them to carry their weapons in more places statewide. Since then, permitted gun owners have been legally allowed to bring their guns to restaurants, public parks, greenways and some college campuses.

Carrying concealed weapons into a correctional or law enforcement facility, financial institution or government office building is still illegal. In terms of ammunition, Teflon-coated bullets are unlawful in North Carolina.

If you are accused of carrying a concealed weapon in a public place without the appropriate permit, you could face a class I misdemeanor. Violating this law on public school grounds or during a civil disorder may be considered a felony charge, with jail time and large fines possible.

North Carolina also allows individuals to own and possess many different types of knives, including Bowie knives, daggers, switchblades, gravity knives and disguised knives, including those hidden in pens or other personal items. However, the law prohibits the possession of spring-loaded projectile or ballistic knives.

Gun possession restrictions

Current federal law prohibits certain people from possessing firearms in the United States, including those who have been convicted of specified misdemeanors or felony crimes punishable by more than one year in prison. Fugitives and people who illegally abuse substances like narcotics, stimulants and depressants are also barred from gun possession, as are undocumented aliens, individuals who have renounced their U.S. citizenship and people who have been dishonorably discharged from the armed forces.

North Carolina law bars the ownership of firearms by anyone with a felony criminal record, per the state’s Felony Firearms Act of 1971. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer will help you understand your rights and obligations under this important state law, including the criminal trial process if you are facing gun possession charges.

A respected criminal defense law firm in Raleigh

The law firm of Hatch, Little & Bunn, LLP has served North Carolina residents for more than 50 years, and we continue to help people with their most difficult legal issues in Chapel Hill, Durham and the surrounding communities. Our office is conveniently located near the state capitol in Raleigh. For a free initial consultation, call us today at 919-670-1411 or email us online.

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