Gun charges in Columbia, South Carolina carry strict consequences. There are gun laws to protect its citizens from the crime of violence. In South Carolina, it's illegal for anyone under 21 to have a firearm, except for hunting with parental permission. Carrying a handgun openly or concealed without a permit is also illegal. Buying a firearm without a background check is against the law.
If charged with illegal gun possession, it's important to take the gun crime weapon charges seriously and contact a criminal defense lawyer. Possessing a firearm has serious felony charge penalties, including jail time and fines. It could also prevent future gun ownership.
Contact Touma Law Group at (803) 879-4499 to speak with one of our skilled Columbia gun charge attorneys to receive a free consultation!
Types of Weapons-Related Offenses in South Carolina
In South Carolina, individuals who possess a deadly weapon unlawfully can face severe penalties. Depending on the type of weapon and the circumstances of the offense, an individual may face criminal weapons charges ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. The most common weapons-related offenses in South Carolina are:
- Unlawful Possession Charge Unlawful possession of a firearm in Columbia, South Carolina can be a serious firearms charge with potentially severe consequences. According to South Carolina gun law, individuals who have been convicted of a felony offense or adjudicated delinquent for an offense that would be considered a felony if committed by an adult are prohibited from possessing firearms in the state of South Carolina. Examples such as those who committed violent crimes, a fugitive from justice, or a previous gun offense. Additionally, there are additional restrictions on who may own and possess a firearm.
- Unlawful Carrying Charge: Unlawful carry charges in Columbia, South Carolina are some of the most serious offenses one can commit. This dangerous crime charge is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to five years. Unlawfully carrying a weapon is defined as the act of carrying a gun without a valid concealed weapons permit, and may also involve the possession of an illegal firearm or other illegal weapons, depending on the circumstances.
Concealed Weapon Charge
A concealed weapon felony conviction charge in Columbia, South Carolina is a serious offense that carries with it the potential for jail time and hefty fines. A person can be charged with this crime if they carry or possess a firearm without having a valid permit. This includes all types of firearms, including handguns, sawed-off shotguns, rifles, shotguns, and assault weapons.
The penalties for a conviction of this crime vary depending on the nature of the offense and the individual’s prior criminal history. Generally, if convicted, a person can face jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Felon in Possession of a Firearm Charge
In Columbia, South Carolina, it is illegal for a person to possess a firearm if they have been convicted of a felony. This is known as a felon in possession of a firearm charge. Anyone found guilty of this charge can face up to five years in prison, along with hefty fines and other penalties.
The federal government has strict laws prohibiting felons from owning firearms; however, South Carolina also has additional subsequent offense restrictions. If you are a convicted felon and have been charged with 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
In Columbia, South Carolina, there are many offenses related to weapons that can result in criminal charges. These include anything from possession of a dangerous weapon to using a weapon during the commission of a crime.
Possession of a weapon can be considered illegal if it is in the wrong hands or used inappropriately. For example, if someone purchases or possesses a firearm without a valid South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit, they can face criminal charges.
Penalties for Weapons-Related Crimes in South Carolina
In South Carolina, weapons-related crimes can carry a wide range of penalties depending on the severity and nature of the offense. Unlawful possession or carrying of a firearm is considered a felony in South Carolina and is a crime punishable by s minimum mandatory sentence of one year in prison. If convicted, the court may also impose fines, probation, community service, and/or other requirements.
Learn More: Caught With an Unregistered Firearm in South Carolina
Additionally, if an individual is found guilty of a weapons-related crime, 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
In Columbia, South Carolina, unlawful possession and carrying of a firearm is illegal and comes with penalties that range from fines to jail time. Anyone who is found guilty of violating the law regarding firearms 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/or more serious penalties.
Jail Time & Fines for Felon in Possession Charges
In Columbia, South Carolina, a person convicted of felon in possession of a firearm 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 of being a felon in possession of a firearm 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.
Call Our Experienced Columbia Gun Charge Lawyer Now!
If you have been charged with a criminal offense 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. Our lawyers will vigorously defend your gun rights and constitutional rights and work diligently to ensure that all available affirmative defenses are taken into account when dealing with your case. Call us today to ensure the best valid defense against allegations involving common firearm charge