If authorities arrested you for carrying a weapon but you believe you were within your rights to carry it, contact a defense lawyer immediately.
Residents of Brownsville can rely on Kenny Perez Law to defend them in weapons crimes charges. We can help you through the legal process and address your concerns. We know how to build a solid case.
Our office is available to take your call at any time. We are happy to help you in any way we can.
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The Gun Requirements in Texas
Texas gun laws do not have a waiting period or license requirement to purchase firearms. However, people generally need a license to carry handguns. Over 1.4 million people in Texas have valid gun licenses.
The license allows someone to carry and hold a concealed handgun. To obtain the license, you need to meet all the requirements and complete an application.
HB 1927 allows people in Texas to possess a handgun in public without a license to carry. Requirements include being over 21, having no prior felony convictions, and having no signs of intoxication. A person with a felony conviction can own other types of firearms. However, they only can possess a gun five years after their release.
Individuals cannot knowingly have a firearm on school grounds or school buses. The exception is a handgun with a valid license. The law prohibits gun possession in bars, amusement parks, academic sporting events, and hospitals. In some locations, you can get proper authorization for a firearm.
Types of Illegal Weapons in Texas
Residents in Brownsville can own various types of weapons legally. However, Texas law bans the possession of specific categories. Even if you own a legal firearm, certain modifications can make the gun violate regulations.
#1. Machine Guns
Gun control laws in Texas generally are less restrictive compared to other states. Nevertheless, people cannot buy or sell fully automatic weapons, or machine guns, in the state. Even the repairing and transportation of the firearm is illegal.
A person can carry a machine gun in Texas in a few circumstances. They need to properly register the firearm with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). You should contact a defense lawyer if you face charges for carrying a machine gun.
#2. Armor-Piercing Ammunition and Silencers
Armor-piercing ammunition penetrates protective armor and shields. The nature of the ammunition means most people in the state cannot own the bullets. The exception is if the person registered them under federal law.
Additionally, regulations prohibit gun owners from adding silencers to their firearms.
#3. Short-Barrel Firearms
A common weapons offense is a firearm with a barrel shorter than 16 inches. The decreased length means a person can conceal the gun more easily. Additionally, the weapon is more accurate because it weighs less.
If you plan to modify your gun, you should ensure the barrel is a legal length.
#4. Explosives
In the United States, roughly 12,957 explosion-related incidents occur every year. Explosive weapons include land mines, bombs, grenades, and rockets. Ownership of the devices is less common compared to other weapons.
However, the consequences are severe. You should reach out to an attorney if you have charges against you for possessing explosives.
What Are the Penalties?
The type of weapon and where you carry it affect the charge you receive. A Class A misdemeanor applies if a person has a handgun without a license. The penalties are a maximum of one year in prison and up to $4,000 in fines.
If a place sells alcohol, unlawfully carrying a handgun leads to a third-degree felony. You could face 2 to 10 years of prison time and a maximum $10,000 fine. If the premises forbids firearms, a person receives a Class C misdemeanor charge and a fine of no more than $200.
The possession of an illegal weapon results in a third-degree felony charge. The penalties include 2 to 10 years of imprisonment and up to $10,000 in fines. The consequences of a conviction can have a lasting impact on your life. The attorneys at Kenny Perez Law can defend your rights.
Why You Should Get a Weapons Crimes Lawyer?
A person could face charges for a weapons crime if they sell or possess an illegal weapon. They could get into legal trouble if they have a gun if they are ineligible to own one. An individual might have carried the firearm inappropriately or on the wrong property.
In some cases, misunderstandings happen, and people face penalties. A member of law enforcement could have made an error. You could be within your rights to carry your weapon. The legal repercussions can seem intimidating, but an attorney can assert your rights.
The other side has to prove you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. A weapons crimes lawyer works to build a strong defense. They know how the prosecution may approach your case. A trusted firm can help you reduce or drop your charges.
While you can represent yourself in court, a lawyer increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
Call Kenny Perez Law
Convictions for the illegal possession of a weapon can lower your enjoyment of life. False accusations can occur, and you need someone by your side to defend your rights. Kenny Perez Law helps clients who face weapons charges. Our team has the necessary experience to protect you from imprisonment.
We review every piece of information to show you are not at fault. Since each case is different, we work with you to craft the right strategy. Our firm understands what is at stake and is ready to stand by your side. Regardless of the situation, we treat every client with respect.
Contact us at any time at (956) 544-9292 if you require a Brownsville criminal defense attorney. Consultations with us are always free.
Kenny Perez Law
1900 N Exp 77. Suite A,
Brownsville, Texas 78521
(956) 544-9292
“Definitely a law firm that you can trust! Professional, reasonable, and knowledgeable. The legal team has great customer service skills. They were able to help and guide us every step of the way after our accident.” – Cynthia Barrera
Rating: 5/5
03/14/2021
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