Firearm Offenses in PA
The Commonwealth takes firearms charges very seriously. A firearms violation could lead to a felony criminal charge, and that might mean significant jail time and the loss of your Second Amendment rights going forward. At The Hoover Firm, LLC, we defend all types of firearms cases. No matter the situation, our law firm is prepared to determine the best course of action. Here, our firearm defense lawyer in Harrisburg provides an overview of these types of charges.
Possession of a Firearm By a Prohibited Person
Under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6105, the possession of a firearm by a prohibited person is a serious criminal offense. Specifically, the statute prohibits people convicted of certain offenses—including violent crimes and many drug-related felonies—from possessing, using, controlling, selling, transferring, or manufacturing firearms. It is a second-degree felony punishable by ten years in prison.
Carrying a Firearm Without a License
Under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6106, it is illegal to carry a concealed firearm on one’s person or in a vehicle without a valid license—except in one’s place of abode or within a fixed place of business. For people who are actually eligible for a license, the offense is a first-degree misdemeanor. Though it can still carry up to five years in prison. For people who are not eligible for a license, it is a third-degree felony that carries up to seven years in state prison.
Possession of a Firearm With an Altered Serial Number
Under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6110.2, it is against the law to possess a firearm with the manufacturer’s serial number altered, removed, or obliterated. The crime is classified as a second-degree felony. If convicted, you may face up to 10 years in state prison. You have the right to defend yourself against this offense.
Possession of a Firearm by a Minor
There are strict rules regarding firearms and minors. Under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6110.1, youth who are under 18 years of age are generally prohibited from possessing firearms—unless they meet an exception for supervised hunting or supervised training. It is a first-degree misdemeanor. In some cases, the parent of a minor in possession of a firearm could themselves face a criminal charge. But that will also depend on the specific circumstances.
Possession of Prohibited Offensive Weapons
Under 18 Pa.C.S. § 908, the possession of certain offensive weapons—from machine guns to sawed-off shotguns with barrels less than 18 inches—is banned. The offense is generally charged as a first-degree misdemeanor. Still, if convicted, you can face up to five years in state prison.
Contact Our Harrisburg, PA, Firearm Defense Attorney Today
At The Hoover Firm, LLC, our Harrisburg criminal defense lawyer is standing by, ready to protect your rights. If you or your loved one is facing a firearm charge, we are here to help. Contact us today for a fully confidential, no-obligation initial case review. With an office in Harrisburg, we defend firearm charges throughout the broader region in Central Pennsylvania.