What's the Penalty for Carrying Guns Without a Permit in PA?

While the legality of firearm possession is a fundamental right in Pennsylvania, there are strict regulations on carrying a gun without a permit. In our latest blog post, we will walk you through the penalties for carrying a gun without a permit in Pennsylvania, including discussing punishments and legal defenses that can help you fight the charges.

Legal Carry and Open Carry Laws in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is an open carry state, meaning you do not need a license to openly carry a firearm. However, when carrying a concealed firearm, you must have a valid License to Carry Firearms. It's crucial to understand the distinction between open and concealed carry to avoid legal complications. In addition, you must have a license to open carry a firearm in what the law defines as a “city of first class.” For example, Philadelphia is a “city of first class” under the law, which means you need a license to openly carry a firearm there.

What Penalties Can You Face If You’re Convicted of Carrying a Gun Without a Permit?

Pennsylvania's laws are clear about carrying a firearm without the proper permit. If you are convicted of carrying a gun without a permit in Pennsylvania, you could face the following penalties:

• Misdemeanor – A fine of up to $10,000 and up to five years in jail.
• Felony – A fine of up to $15,000 and up to seven years in jail.

The courts do not take these violations lightly, and the penalties can have severe and long-lasting ramifications.

Legal Defenses for a Carrying a Gun Without a Permit Charge

Those facing charges for carrying a gun without a permit have options for defending themselves in court. Legal defenses for a carrying a gun without a license charge include:

• Necessity – One possible defense is the necessity defense, which argues that the individual carried the gun without a permit due to an immediate and significant threat to their life or safety, making it necessary for self-defense purposes.
• Lack of Knowledge – Another potential defense is the lack of knowledge, where the individual genuinely did not know they were required to have a permit to carry the gun.

Unfortunately, these defenses are often difficult to prove, especially without the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. If you are charged with carrying a gun without a permit, you should speak with a criminal defense lawyer about your situation as soon as possible.

Charged with Carrying a Gun Without a Permit in Pennsylvania? Contact Our Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers Today!

At Scaringi Law, we encourage potential clients to reach out to us as soon as possible for the best chance at a positive result. Our experienced criminal defense team at Scaringi Law will work tirelessly to establish a robust defense based on your individual case details.

Contact our criminal defense attorneys online or call us at (717) 775-7195 to set up a consultation. We have expertise in both state and federal court criminal cases.