Punta Gorda Gun Crime Lawyer

Punta Gorda Gun Crime Attorney

The state of Florida takes gun crimes very seriously, so if you are facing a gun-related charge, you may be looking at life-altering consequences. While some gun crimes are misdemeanors, many Florida gun crime violations are felonies and can result in a sentence of up to life in prison. If you have been charged with a gun crime in Florida, you should contact a Punta Gorda gun crime lawyer immediately to assist you with your case.

The team at Ruhl Law, P.A., has the skills and experience to represent you in court and defend your rights. We take a non-judgmental approach to serving our clients, so you can rest knowing we will work diligently to help you no matter your charges. Whether you need assistance with a gun crime case or require a local Punta Gorda criminal defense lawyer, we are here to provide the strong defense and guidance you deserve.

What Are the Gun Crime Laws in Florida?

Florida, next to Texas, is a US state that has a considerable number of concealed-carrying citizens. However, it also has some of the toughest gun laws. First, you must have a license to carry a concealed weapon in Florida. Secondly, Florida is very particular about who can carry a gun as well as when, where, and how a gun can be discharged. The list below outlines the most common gun laws in Florida:

• Possession restrictions: Florida has strict guidelines for where you can carry a firearm. According to Florida’s law, here are some, but not all, places where you are unable to carry a firearm:
  • Places of nuisances, such as brothels or gang-related establishments, a police station, a courthouse, a polling place, and schools, among other places.
• Unlawful possession: There are certain groups of people who cannot legally carry a handgun in Florida, for example, minors under 21 years old, convicted felons, those with disabilities that prohibit their safe use of a firearm, and drug and alcohol addicts.
• Unlawful discharge: In Florida, it is unlawful to recklessly discharge a firearm in a public place, especially from a vehicle. This also applies to hunters who may fire their guns near a residential area.
• Unlawfully exhibiting a firearm: Concealed carry licenses come with the expectation that the carrier is responsible; therefore, angrily, rudely, or threateningly exhibiting a firearm is illegal.
• Committing a crime with a gun: In addition to other usage laws, committing a crime with a gun, such as aggravated assault or burglary, robbery, or kidnapping, carries considerable consequences. Keep in mind the gun does not have to be used in the crime. If it is present, you can still face consequences.

What Are the Penalties for the Most Common Gun Crimes?

Violating a gun crime law in Florida can be a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the crime. The penalties for gun crime-related misdemeanors and felonies are as follows.

• Restricted carrying – A third-degree felony and could be sentenced to up to five years in prison, or could be a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in some cases.
• Unlawful possession – A second-degree misdemeanor which can include up to 60 days in prison or could be a felony with more severe penalties if other factors are present.
• Unlawful discharge – This can be a first-degree misdemeanor with penalties including up to a year in prison. Discharging a firearm in a vehicle is a third-degree felony and could be sentenced to up to five years in prison, or a felony is in the second degree if a person is in close distance and could be sentenced to up to 15 years in prison.
• Unlawful exhibition – A first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in prison,
• Committing a felony – A person who commits a felony while in possession of a gun or with a gun can face up to life in prison.

What Is the Stand Your Ground Law in Florida?

The United States Constitution provides for its citizens to bear arms as a means of self-defense. In some cases, clients may use self-defense to justify discharging a weapon or threatening to discharge their weapon when facing gun charges.

Under Florida’s stand your ground law, this defense may be permissible as long as the person is not committing criminal activity, is in a place they are entitled to be in, and can prove they were in danger. The law also provides that the person need not retreat into their home.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in Florida?

A: The cost of a criminal lawyer in Florida varies depending on the lawyer’s skill and experience, the firm’s location, and the details of the case. If your case is complex and you are facing several charges, for example, it may require more billable hours. This is also true if you work with a more experienced lawyer and if your lawyer’s firm is in a high-cost-of-living area.

Q: Can a Felon Own a Gun in Florida after 10 Years?

A: Yes, a felon can own a gun in Florida after 10 years. In Florida, a felon can have their gun rights restored after 8 years by going through the clemency process, which involves submitting a clemency application to the Florida Commission on Offender Review, completing their sentence, paying all of their fines, paying all restitution, among other requirements.

Q: How Many Years Do You Get for a Gun Charge in Florida?

A: The number of years an offender gets for a gun charge in Florida depends on the type of gun crime they committed and whether or not they have prior convictions, especially gun-related convictions. Gun crimes can be misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanor sentencing can be from 60 days to 1 year in prison, while felony sentencing can be five years up to life in prison.

Contact Ruhl Law, P.A. – Experienced Gun Crime Law Firm

At Ruhl Law, P.A., we know how devastating being charged with a gun crime can be in Florida. That is why we work tirelessly to ensure our clients’ rights are protected and that they have a solid defense when they stand in front of a judge. You can trust us with your gun crime case. Contact our office today for a consultation.