Miami, FL Concealed Weapons Violation Lawyer

Compassionate Attorney for Criminal Charges Related to Carrying a Concealed Weapon in Miami

People may choose to carry guns or other weapons so that they will be able to protect themselves or others when necessary. However, there are certain restrictions that apply to concealed in Florida. If a person carries a concealed firearm or another type of weapon without the proper authorization, they could face criminal charges. A gun crime conviction can result in severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and the loss of certain rights.

Charges related to concealed weapons can be serious, and people who have been accused of violating weapons laws will need to determine the best ways to protect their rights. At The Hoffman Firm, our criminal defense lawyer can review the details of a case and present a strong defense in court. With our experience handling firearm and concealed weapons cases in Miami, we can help our clients defend against criminal convictions and avoid long-term penalties that may affect their lives.

What Counts as a Concealed Weapon Under Florida Law?

A concealed weapon may be a firearm or other weapon that a person carries on their person in a way that is not visible to others. Under Florida law, it is a criminal offense to carry a concealed weapon or firearm without a valid license. The law applies to the following types of weapons:

• Firearms, including handguns and pistols
• Electronic weapons, such as tasers
• Knives
• Brass knuckles
• Tear gas guns
• Billy clubs or batons
• Anything else that may be considered a deadly weapon

When Is Carrying a Concealed Weapon Legal?

There are situations in which a person may lawfully carry a concealed weapon in Florida. The most common legal authorization comes in the form of a Concealed Weapon or Firearm License (CWFL), which is issued by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. People who obtain a CWFL license are legally allowed to carry a concealed firearm or weapon.

Florida also allows for permitless concealed carry. Even if a person has not obtained a CWFL, they may carry concealed weapons if they meet the criteria for obtaining a concealed weapons license. While the concealed weapons law applies to most dangerous weapons, it does not apply to non-lethal stun guns or chemical sprays (such as pepper spray) that are used for defensive purposes.

Criminal Charges Related to Concealed Weapons in Miami

A person who carries a concealed weapon without a valid license may be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. If convicted of this offense, a person could be sentenced to up to one year in jail, fined a maximum of $1,000, or both. In cases where a person is accused of unlawfully carrying a concealed firearm, the charge will be elevated to a third-degree felony, and a conviction carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and/or a maximum fine of $5,000.

Even when a person is authorized to carry concealed firearms, carrying a weapon is prohibited in certain locations, including:

• Schools and school grounds
• Courthouses
• Government buildings
• Airports
• Bars or restaurants that serve alcohol
• Other locations where firearms are prohibited under federal law

In most cases, violating these restrictions can lead to second-degree misdemeanor charges, which carry a potential prison sentence of up to two months. However, carrying a weapon in a school or at a school-sponsored event is a third-degree felony.

Defenses Against Concealed Weapons Charges

At The Hoffman Firm, our Miami weapons charges attorney can provide strong legal defense for clients who have been charged with unlawfully carrying firearms or other concealed weapons. Defenses that may be used in these cases include:

• Lack of Knowledge: Our lawyer may argue that the accused did not know they were carrying a weapon.
• Lawful Possession: Our attorney may provide evidence showing that a person was authorized to possess and carry the weapon in question.
• Unlawful Search and Seizure: If a weapon was discovered during an illegal search by law enforcement, our lawyer can take steps to have that evidence excluded, which may result in a dismissal.

Contact Our Miami, Florida Concealed Weapons Charges Attorney

When addressing criminal charges related to concealed weapons in Miami and other parts of Florida, it is important to take action and protect your rights. A criminal conviction can have lasting consequences, including jail time, fines, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of the ability to possess weapons in the future. At The Hoffman Firm, we can provide a strong defense against firearm-related offenses. Call 305-249-0090 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.