Columbia, South Carolina’s strict gun laws protect its citizens from violent crime. Facing a firearms charge in Columbia, South Carolina, is a serious matter. It’s a gun crime that can have severe, life-altering consequences. Whether it’s an unlawful possession charge, a felony weapons charge, or a charge related to a concealed weapon, the legal system can be overwhelming.
Understanding these firearm laws and the specific criminal penalties is essential for building a strong defense. If you’ve been charged, it’s critical to take these gun charges in Columbia, South Carolina, seriously and contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. A conviction can result in a felony charge with penalties that include jail time, substantial fines, and the permanent loss of your right to own a firearm.
Types of Weapons-Related Offenses in South Carolina
Individuals who possess a deadly weapon unlawfully in South Carolina can face severe penalties. Depending on the type of weapon and the circumstances of the offense, a person may face criminal weapons charges that range from misdemeanors to felonies. The most common weapons-related offenses in South Carolina include:
Unlawful Possession Charge
The illegal possession of a firearm in Columbia, South Carolina, can be a serious offense with potentially severe consequences. According to South Carolina law, individuals who have been convicted of a felony offense or a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence are prohibited from possessing firearms in the state.
Other prohibited persons include fugitives from justice or anyone deemed mentally incompetent by a court order. Even a minor firearm possession charge can lead to serious legal issues if you have a prior criminal record.
Unlawful Carrying Charge
Unlawful carrying charges are among the most serious offenses one can commit. While the state now has permitless carry, allowing individuals 18 and older who are not otherwise prohibited to carry openly or concealed, there are still specific locations and circumstances where carrying a gun is illegal.
This can lead to a felony weapons charge. The law is detailed and can be confusing. For instance, possessing a firearm on school property or in a courthouse is a crime, even with a permit. An unlawful carrying charge can also involve the possession of an illegal firearm.
Concealed Weapon Charge
A concealed weapon charge is a serious offense that carries the potential for jail time and significant fines. Under the state’s new “constitutional carry” law, a permit is no longer required for most concealed carry situations, but violating the law’s restrictions can still lead to a charge.
This includes carrying a weapon in a place where firearms are explicitly prohibited by law, such as a school or government building, or on private property with a posted sign prohibiting weapons. A concealed carry permit is still available for those who wish to have one for reciprocity with other states.
Felon in Possession of a Firearm Charge
It is illegal for a person to possess a firearm if they have been convicted of a felony. This is known as the felon in possession of a firearm charge. Anyone found guilty of this charge can face up to five years in state prison, along with hefty fines and other gun penalties. The federal government has strict laws prohibiting felons from owning firearms; however, South Carolina also has additional subsequent offenses.
If you are a convicted felon and have been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your rights and build a strong defense.
Other Weapon-Related Offenses
There are many offenses related to weapons that can result in criminal charges. These include anything from discharging a firearm in a prohibited area to altering or removing a firearm’s serial number. The Columbia borough police and other law enforcement agencies are vigilant in enforcing these laws. The charge of possessing a weapon can be considered illegal if it’s in the wrong hands or used inappropriately.
Related: SC gun laws
Penalties for Weapons-Related Crimes in South Carolina
Weapons-related crimes can carry a wide range of penalties depending on the severity and nature of the offense. The unlawful possession of a firearm is a serious offense that can be a felony, punishable by a minimum mandatory sentence of one year in prison.
If convicted, the court may also impose fines, probation, community service, and other requirements. Additionally, suppose an individual is found guilty of a weapons-related crime. In that case, they may face other legal consequences, such as difficulty obtaining government benefits or restrictions on their right to vote.
Jail Time & Fines for Unlawful Possession and Carrying Charges
Unlawful possession and carrying of a firearm are illegal and come with penalties that range from fines to jail time. Anyone who is found guilty of violating the law can expect to receive jail time, fines, or both. Unlawful possession of a firearm carries a maximum sentence of up to five years in prison and/or a fine not exceeding $1,000. Additionally, if a person is found to have an illegal firearm or other weapon, they may receive additional charges and more serious penalties.
Jail Time & Fines for Felon in Possession Charges
A person convicted of a felony in possession of a firearm charge can face serious jail time and fines. Under state law, it is illegal for individuals convicted of certain felonies to possess or acquire firearms. A person found guilty can receive up to five years in prison and be fined up to $5,000. There are also enhanced penalties for individuals who possess a firearm after being convicted of certain violent offenses.
Other Penalties for Weapons-Related Crimes
In addition to fines and jail time, a person convicted of a weapons-related offense in Columbia, South Carolina, may face other penalties. These can include the suspension of any firearms licenses they may hold, as well as restrictions on their ability to own or possess weapons in the future. The court may also require the person to submit to mental health evaluations and/or substance abuse treatment programs.
For military personnel, these charges can also lead to military penalties and a dishonorable discharge. A strong defense that addresses every aspect of the case, from the legality of a search and seizure to the specifics of the charge, is essential.
Call Our Experienced Columbia Gun Charge Lawyer Now!
If you have been charged with a criminal offense or gun charge in the state of South Carolina, it is important to seek legal representation from an experienced Columbia gun lawyer. The Touma Law Group has a team of experienced attorneys who specialize in defending clients against gun charges in Columbia, South Carolina.
Our lawyers will vigorously defend your gun rights and constitutional rights and work diligently to ensure that all available legal defenses are taken into account when dealing with your case. Call us today at (803) 879-4499 to ensure the best defense against allegations involving common firearm charges.
