MARYLAND WEAPON CHARGES LAWYER
If you buy, sell, use, possess or carry certain categories of weapons in Maryland, such acts can constitute a crime. Under Maryland law, the mere possession of certain objects, such as nunchucks, switchblade knives, and spring-loaded knives can constitute a criminal offense. The law of our state also imposes restrictions on the possession of firearms, shotguns, and rifles. Maryland also has an assault weapons ban as well as a ban on machine guns. Each Maryland weapons offense carries its own penalties, which can include lengthy periods of incarceration. The criminal defense attorneys at Azari Law, LLC are dedicated to protecting your rights. Our Maryland criminal defense attorneys will vigorously defend you if you are charged with a weapons criminal offense.
Maryland Weapons Crimes
These are just a few examples of weapons offenses under state laws in Maryland, but there are many other potential charges that you could face. Further, many municipalities in Maryland have ordinances that impose other weapons restrictions. If you have questions about your specific situation, we invite you to contact us so that we can answer your questions, address your concerns, and protect your rights
Carrying, Wearing or Transporting a Handgun [MD Criminal Code §4-203]
Maryland law prohibits an individual from carrying, wearing, or transporting a handgun without a permit even if it is not concealed. The law also restricts motorists from transporting a gun in a vehicle on a public road, highway, waterway, or airway. Exceptions apply to law enforcement officers, correctional officers, military service members, or people transporting a handgun to a shooting range or legal sales venue. A violation of this provision constitutes a misdemeanor that is punishable by incarceration for a period from 30 days to 3 years and a fine ranging from $250 to $2,500. The penalties are more severe if the offense occurs on school premises, or the accused has prior convictions.
Openly Carrying a Dangerous Weapon [MD Criminal Code §4-101(c)(2)]
If a person carries or wears a dangerous weapon in Maryland even in the open, the act constitutes a crime if he or she does so with the intent to cause unlawful harm to another individual.
Carrying a Dangerous Concealed Weapon [MD Criminal Code § 4-101(c)(1)]
When an individual carries a concealed dangerous weapon without a permit, this act constitutes a crime unless otherwise permitted by law [e.g. police officers]. When you are facing the charge of unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon, you need to understand what constitutes a weapon for purposes of this criminal offense. Knives, such a bowies, switchblades, and dirks, are considered weapons. Martial artist weapons, such as nunchaku (commonly known as “nunchucks) and throwing stars, or star knives, also are considered weapons. Pepper spray, commonly referred to as “OC” spray also is a weapon. These weapons may be not worn or carried in a concealed manner on any person except by law enforcement officers. A violation of this law is a misdemeanor punishable by up to three years in jail and a fine not to exceed $1,000 or both. A person carrying a concealed weapon without a permit might have a defense to this charge if it is carried for self-defense based on a reasonable apprehension of danger under the circumstances.
Deadly Weapon on School Property [MD Criminal Code §4-102]
Maryland law prohibits possession of a deadly weapon or firearm on public school property with exceptions provided for certain individuals that include school security guards, law enforcement officers, and individuals engaged in certain educational activities as specified by statute. Violation of this provision constitutes a misdemeanor and carries a penalty of up to 3 years incarceration and a maximum fine of up to $1,000.
Access of Child to Firearm [MD Criminal Code §4-104]
If an individual leaves or stores a loaded firearm in a way that permits a child’s access, failure to safeguard the firearm from the unsupervised child constitutes a misdemeanor and can result in a fine up to $1,000. Examples of exceptions to this provision include access obtained through unlawful entry or under supervision of an adult.
Free, Confidential Legal Consultation
Before you make any decision in regard to your weapons charge(s), please contact us to discuss your options. You can reach us 24/7 at (301) 362-3300, or email us for a free consultation or to schedule an office appointment. We are conveniently located in Laurel, Silver Spring, Rockville, and Ellicott City MD. Rest assured that any information provided to us is completely confidential. We look forward to helping you.
