Englewood Gun Crime Lawyer

Englewood Gun Crime Attorney

When you’ve been charged with gun crimes in Florida, you aren’t just facing criminal penalties; your Second Amendment rights could be at stake. While the state is friendly toward gun owners, it is quite strict toward criminals who use firearms. When you’ve been charged with assault with a deadly weapon, armed robbery, or illegal possession of a firearm, an Englewood gun crime lawyer from Ruhl Law, P.A., can be your trusted ally, working hard to protect your rights and freedom.

Common Gun Crimes

Florida is hard on firearm crimes, especially when a gun is used to commit another crime, even if it’s just displayed or present. Some common gun crimes include:

• Possession of a firearm by a felon
• Aggravated assault with a firearm
• Armed robbery
• Improper exhibition of a firearm
• Use of a firearm during the commission of a crime

In 2024, guns were used in 74.2% of murders in the U.S., 32.1% of robberies, and 32.8% of aggravated assaults. Even otherwise non-violent crimes can become serious offenses when a gun is involved. Florida law allows for sentencing enhancements when an offender is carrying a weapon.

Florida Gun Crime and Relevant Laws

Florida affords gun owners numerous rights regarding ownership, possession, and use of firearms. For instance, HB 543 allows Florida residents and nonresidents to carry a weapon concealed without a permit anywhere that it is legal to possess a firearm. In 2025, the First District Court of Appeals in Florida ruled the state’s open carry ban was in violation of the Constitution, meaning it became legal to openly carry a firearm in public.

However, those freedoms also come with responsibilities, and there are laws in place that enshrine those responsibilities. For example, Florida’s 10-20-Life law sets mandatory sentencing guidelines when a person commits a felony while possessing or using a firearm. Knowing the state’s firearm possession and use laws not only lets you understand your rights but also helps you avoid committing serious offenses.

Penalties for Gun Crime Convictions

In 2023, 2,048 firearms were linked to aggravated assault in Florida. It’s no surprise that the state imposes strict penalties for gun crimes. Most gun offenses are considered felonies in the state, many of which are subject to the sentencing requirements set in the 10-20-Life law. Under this law, guidelines are established for the possession or use of a firearm while a person is committing certain felonies. The prison sentencing minimums include:

• 10 years. A person is in possession of a firearm while committing a qualifying felony.
• 20 years. The weapon is discharged while committing a felony.
• 25 years to life. A person injures or kills someone while committing a felony.

Judges have very little discretion in sentencing when the 10-20-Life law applies to a gun crime case. For a strong defense, work with an experienced Englewood gun crime attorney.

Why Choose Ruhl Law, P.A., to Defend You Against Gun Crime Charges?

When you’ve been charged with gun crime, there’s a lot at stake. You could fully forfeit your Second Amendment right to bear arms, and you may be facing decades behind bars. Luckily, the experienced Englewood criminal defense attorneys at Ruhl Law, P.A., can defend your rights and protect your freedom. Whether your case is being heard at the Charlotte County Justice Center or the Sarasota County Courthouse, we know what it takes to craft an effective strategy to take on the prosecution.

We have over 15 years of experience in defending Englewood, Florida, residents against gun crime charges. Between our familiarity with the state’s gun crime laws and the local court’s prosecutors and judges, we can work toward dismissal or acquittal. If necessary, we can also pursue a plea deal for a reduced sentence.

FAQs About Englewood, FL Gun Crime Law

What Is the New Gun Law in Florida?

There are a few new gun laws in Florida to be aware of. In 2023, the state passed HB 543, which allows residents to carry a concealed weapon without a permit, with certain restrictions. In 2025, the First District Court of Appeal ruled that Florida’s ban on open carry was unconstitutional, meaning open carry has effectively become legal in most public spaces.

How Strict Are the Gun Laws in Florida?

With permitless concealed carry, open carry, and stand your ground laws, Florida is considered one of the least strict states for gun laws. However, the state does still have laws that cover age requirements, background checks, and location restrictions for carrying a gun. There are also severe punishments for crimes committed with a firearm.

Do You Need a Lawyer If You’re Facing a Minor Gun Crime Charge?

While you can technically represent yourself in a gun crime case, you should hire an attorney, even if you’re only facing minor charges. Florida law takes these charges seriously, and you risk fines, jail time, and the loss of your rights with a conviction. Navigating the state’s gun crime laws is difficult, but an experienced attorney can provide the guidance and representation you need to address your charges.

Can a Felon Live in a House With a Gun in Florida?

Yes, a felon can live in a house with a gun in Florida, but there are some restrictions. Primarily, the firearm must be stored in such a way that the felon cannot access it. It should be kept in a locked safe, and the person with a felony conviction should not know the combination. This avoids the potential for constructive possession charges.

Hire a Gun Crime Lawyer From Ruhl Law, P.A.

A conviction for a gun crime can be devastating. You could spend decades in prison, lose your rights, and forever be branded as a felon. That’s why you should hire a gun crime lawyer to defend your freedom and maintain your innocence. An attorney can investigate your case, collect evidence, challenge the prosecution, and work toward dismissal or acquittal.

Contact Ruhl Law, P.A., today to discuss your case. Trust us to guide you through this challenging time. Whether it’s requesting that the judge dismiss your charges, negotiating a plea deal with the prosecutor, or representing you in front of a jury, we can employ every strategy we have as we try to get your life back.