Do I need to have a license to carry a gun in Pennsylvania?

You don’t necessarily have to have a license to own a gun in Pennsylvania. Many residents of the state have a gun in their homes or businesses for protection. However, they do not have licenses for these weapons. However, if you want your firearm on your body or in your vehicle, you will be required to obtain a license for your weapon. If you want to apply for a license, you must be at least 21 years old. You must also apply for the license through the county or your sheriff. If you are a resident of Philadelphia, you will be required to make your application through the Police Chief. If you have been arrested for carrying a weapon without a license, contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim to consult with an experienced gun charge lawyer in Philadelphia, PA, and learn about your rights and the legal options available to you.

Can I carry a firearm in open view to the public in Pennsylvania?

Some states have laws that allow their residents to carry firearms in holsters open to public view. These are referred to as ‘open carry’ laws. Arizona is an example of one such state. Pennsylvania does not have laws that specifically address carrying weapons openly. Therefore, many people assume that it is legal to carry a firearm openly in Pennsylvania. However, just because there is no outright prohibition in Pennsylvania law to carry a firearm openly, it does not mean that you should carry your firearm openly. Interpreting Pennsylvania’s firearm laws can be complex. You could end up on the losing end. It is important to obtain a license to carry a firearm. If you have been charged with an offense related to carrying a firearm, you should contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim to consult with an experienced Philadelphia weapons offense attorney and learn about your rights and options.

Philadelphia Weapons Offense Attorney

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Gun Charge Lawyer in Philadelphia Represents Clients in Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and Throughout Pennsylvania

It is a constitutional right of every American citizen to ‘bear arm.’ However, every state has specific laws to regulate the possession of firearms. Gun-related charges are taken seriously in Philadelphia. A conviction for a violation of firearm laws can result in years in prison as well as thousands of dollars in fines. If you’re facing gun-related charges, you must have the guidance and representation of an experienced Philadelphia weapons offense attorney.

The team at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim are experienced in handling cases involving gun-related charges. We have successfully represented many clients on a variety of gun-related cases and had their charges dismissed, reduced, or secured a favorable verdict at trial. We will fight to get the best outcome in your case on your behalf.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an experienced gun charge lawyer in Philadelphia, PA. We are available to explain your charges to you fully. We will work with you to build an effective defense.

Penalties for Illegal Possession of a Firearm in Philadelphia

While you don’t have to have a license to purchase a firearm in Philadelphia, you do need a license to carry the firearm with you. This means that if you are found in possession of a firearm outside of your residence or place of business, you could face charges for illegal possession of a firearm.

Charges involving using a firearm in furtherance of some crimes carry mandatory prison sentences of not less than five years. This five-year sentence will be consecutive to any other sentence that the court may impose. Therefore gun charges have the potential of resulting in extended prison times.

Under Pennsylvania law, you could face up to 7 years imprisonment if you are convicted of carrying a gun without a permit. If you are an arrested felon who is not permitted by law to possess or own a gun, you could potentially serve up to 10 years for possession of a firearm.

Who Cannot Possess a Firearm in Philadelphia?

Pennsylvania law prohibits those that have been convicted of certain criminal offenses in the past from possessing firearms. These crimes include violent crimes such as assault, drug dealing, and burglary amongst many others.

Federal laws also apply when it comes to gun possession. Some individuals that cannot possess guns under federal law include:

Those that have been convicted of a felony. This includes crimes that are punishable by more than a year of imprisonment.
Those that have been convicted of certain misdemeanors
Fugitives
Those that have been convicted of domestic violence crimes
Those that have a documented mental illness
Non-US citizens as well as those that have renounced their US citizenship

Common Firearm Offenses that an Experienced Philadelphia Weapons Offense Attorney at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim Can Help With

Offenses regarding ownership, use of firearms, or possessing firearms in Pennsylvania are outlined in Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, also known as Pennsylvania Uniform Firearms Act. Some common firearm offenses include:

Possession of a prohibited weapon including a sawed-off shotgun, machine gun, grenade, and bomb
Unlawful sale or transfer of firearms
Unlawful possession of a firearm

We have successfully represented many clients charged with firearm offenses in Philadelphia and throughout Pennsylvania. We will fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us now to schedule a consultation with an experienced gun charge lawyer in Philadelphia, PA.

Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim to Consult with an Experienced Philadelphia Weapons Offense Attorney

Facing gun charges can be a daunting experience, but understanding your rights is the first step in mounting a strong defense. To equip yourself with essential information, we invite you to watch our Weapon Crime Videos. At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, our adept gun charges lawyers in Philadelphia, PA, are ready to clarify your legal standing and explore every avenue to safeguard your rights and freedom. Contact us, and together we will strive for the most favorable resolution in your case.

You don’t necessarily have to have a license to own a gun in Pennsylvania. Many residents of the state have a gun in their homes or businesses for protection. However, they do not have licenses for these weapons. However, if you want your firearm on your body or in your vehicle, you will be required to obtain a license for your weapon.
If you want to apply for a license, you must be at least 21 years old. You must also apply for the license through the county or your sheriff. If you are a resident of Philadelphia, you will be required to make your application through the Police Chief.
If you have been arrested for carrying a weapon without a license, contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim to consult with an experienced gun charge lawyer in Philadelphia, PA, and learn about your rights and the legal options available to you.
Some states have laws that allow their residents to carry firearms in holsters open to public view. These are referred to as ‘open carry’ laws. Arizona is an example of one such state.
Pennsylvania does not have laws that specifically address carrying weapons openly. Therefore, many people assume that it is legal to carry a firearm openly in Pennsylvania. However, just because there is no outright prohibition in Pennsylvania law to carry a firearm openly, it does not mean that you should carry your firearm openly. Interpreting Pennsylvania’s firearm laws can be complex. You could end up on the losing end.
It is important to obtain a license to carry a firearm. If you have been charged with an offense related to carrying a firearm, you should contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim to consult with an experienced Philadelphia weapons offense attorney and learn about your rights and options.

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