Gun laws are a topic of hot debate across the nation. No matter someone’s position on the stance, it is important for all citizens of Pennsylvania to understand the gun laws that exist in our state. From sportsman ownership to concealed carry, there are many different things to consider when deciding to purchase a gun for family protection, venture out to public spaces where guns might be present, or make use of one on a hunting trip.
The Pennsylvania criminal defense attorneys Cicarelli Law Offices handle questions like these all the time. We employ experienced and informed Pennsylvania criminal defense attorneys who understand state and federal law inside and out. Reach out to us today to learn more about how Pennsylvania gun laws are written and how they affect you.
Obtaining a Firearm in the Commonwealth of PA
According to the organization, Brady: United Against Gun Violence, Pennsylvania is the 14th most strict state on the civilian purchase and usage of lethal armaments. This is indicative of how easy it is to get a gun in Pennsylvania in comparison to other US states.
In order to purchase a pistol or other type of handgun, individuals must pass a background check and present a government-issued form of photo identification. During the purchasing procedure of the weapon, a gun dealer should call the state police and verify the purchaser’s background check. It is from here that the police will check multiple databases to check for criminal history. If there are any issues, The person will be denied the sale of the weapon. Additionally, a presentation of falsified documents or another type of dishonesty in the gun-buying process may lead to an immediate arrest.
Will My Application Be Rejected?
There are many different issues that may interfere with someone’s purchase of a gun. Only a small percentage of applications are rejected as these criteria seldom apply to individuals attempting to purchase a gun in Pennsylvania.
- Being deemed not mentally competent by a court of law
- A felony conviction on someone’s record
- Illegal or undocumented immigration to the United States
- Dishonorable discharge from the United States military
- An active restraining order on themselves from a partner or child
- A misdemeanor domestic violence charge
- Addiction to illegal substances
Concealed Carry Laws and Licenses
Concealed carry is a separate issue in the world of gun control. In Pennsylvania, one can legally carry a concealed weapon with a license to carry. These can be obtained by contacting a local county sheriff and submitting an application. One can only do so after becoming 21 years of age. The sheriff has the right to deny authorization to anyone violating rules similar to those laid out above. You should expect a response from the county sheriff’s office within 45 days. Despite this straightforward procedure, one must remember that in some cities concealed carry laws may differ.
Here to Help in Times of Need…
At the Ciccarelli Law Offices, we strive to keep our clients as informed and educated as possible. It is critical that Pennsylvania residents understand gun laws to an extent that keeps them safe and out of harm’s way. In the case that you need a Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney for a case involving firearms, please reach out to us at (610) 692-8700 or by clicking here where you will be redirected to our contact page.