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Firearm Offenses in Pennsylvania: What Every Gun Owner in Allegheny County Should Know

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Firearm Offenses in Pennsylvania: What Every Gun Owner in Allegheny County Should Know

As a gun owner in Pennsylvania, you have certain rights guaranteed by the Second Amendment, but with those rights come responsibilities. Pennsylvania’s firearm laws are complex, and even a simple misunderstanding can lead to serious criminal charges. At Frank Walker Law, I’ve seen firsthand how firearm offenses can impact lives, and I’m here to help you understand your rights and avoid legal trouble. Here’s what every gun owner in Allegheny County needs to know.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Gun Laws

Pennsylvania’s firearm laws strike a balance between protecting the rights of gun owners and ensuring public safety. Here are some key aspects:

  1. Gun Ownership Requirements:

    • You must be 18 or older to purchase a long gun (rifle or shotgun) and 21 or older to purchase a handgun.
    • Background checks are required for all handgun purchases through a licensed dealer.

  2. Concealed Carry:

    • A License to Carry Firearms (LTCF) is required to carry a concealed weapon in Pennsylvania.
    • Open carry is generally allowed without a license, except in Philadelphia or during a declared state of emergency.

  3. Prohibited Persons:

    • Individuals with certain criminal convictions, mental health commitments, or protective orders are prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.

Common Firearm Offenses in Pennsylvania

Even responsible gun owners can find themselves facing charges due to misunderstandings or mistakes. Some of the most common firearm offenses include:

  1. Carrying Without a License:

    • Carrying a concealed firearm without an LTCF is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 7 years in prison and fines up to $15,000.

  2. Illegal Possession:

    • Possessing a firearm as a prohibited person can result in felony charges.

  3. Straw Purchases:

    • Buying a firearm on behalf of someone who cannot legally own one is a serious crime with severe penalties.

  4. Brandishing or Reckless Use:

    • Using a firearm in a way that threatens or endangers others can lead to charges of assault or reckless endangerment.

  5. Firearm Enhancements:

Legal Defenses to Firearm Charges

If you’re charged with a firearm offense, don’t panic. You have legal rights, and an experienced attorney can help build a strong defense. Possible defenses include:

  • Lack of Knowledge: Proving you were unaware of the firearm’s presence (e.g., it was left in your car by someone else).
  • Invalid Search or Seizure: Challenging the legality of the police’s actions if they violated your Fourth Amendment rights.
  • License Issues: Demonstrating that you had a valid LTCF but were unable to produce it at the time of the arrest.

Staying Compliant as a Gun Owner

Avoiding legal trouble starts with understanding and following Pennsylvania’s gun laws. Here are a few tips for staying compliant:

  1. Keep Your LTCF Up to Date:

    • Renew your license before it expires to avoid complications.

  2. Store Firearms Securely:

    • Prevent unauthorized access by storing firearms in a locked safe or using trigger locks.

  3. Understand Reciprocity:

    • If you travel with your firearm, research whether Pennsylvania’s LTCF is recognized in other states.

  4. Know Where You Can Carry:

    • Firearms are prohibited in certain places, such as schools, courthouses, and federal buildings.

Why You Need an Experienced Attorney

Firearm charges can carry severe penalties, including prison time, fines, and the permanent loss of your gun rights. At Frank Walker Law, I understand the intricacies of Pennsylvania’s firearm laws and have successfully defended clients facing these charges. My goal is to protect your rights, minimize the consequences, and help you move forward.

Final Thoughts on Gun Charges in Allegheny County

Owning a firearm comes with significant responsibilities. By understanding Pennsylvania’s gun laws and staying informed, you can enjoy your Second Amendment rights while avoiding legal trouble. If you or someone you know is facing firearm-related charges, contact my office immediately. Together, we can navigate the legal process and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.

About Frank Walker Law

Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.

Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.

If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.