Weapons Charge Lawyer Dayton

Weapons Charge Lawyer Dayton

Getting charged with a crime is a serious matter. It can negatively impact your future as a member of your local community, as you may face restrictions in life. This is especially true if you have a weapons charge. A weapons charge is a type of criminal charge that indicates you were either in possession, use, or both of an illegal weapon. The definition of illegal weapons varies from state to state, and Ohio has some of the most lenient weapon charges in the country. If you’ve been charged with possession or use of an illegal weapon in Ohio, consider reaching out to a weapons charge lawyer in Dayton. 

Weapons Laws in Ohio

It’s important to understand what the weapons laws are in Ohio to recognize why you were charged in the first place. First, Ohio is an open carry state which allows residents to carry their guns openly without a license, but a license is required for carrying a concealed handgun unless you are an active-duty military member or law enforcement officer. For this reason, carrying concealed firearms without a license will likely cause you to receive a first-degree misdemeanor charge or fourth-degree felony if the firearm was loaded or if it is accessible to somebody in a vehicle. If you have previous convictions for the same offense, your charge will increase. Further, carrying, even with a license, is illegal in colleges, places of worship, government buildings, and private properties where gun-free signage is posted. 

In the case that you were carrying a different concealed weapon, such as an automatic or sawed-off firearm, ballistic knife, explosives, military weapons, or silencers, you may be charged with a fifth-degree felony. 

Types of Weapons Charges in Dayton

When you are charged with weapons possession or use in Dayton, you will be charged depending on the extent of your illegality of carrying the weapon and the number of prior convictions you’ve received. Some common types of weapons charges in Dayton include:

• Unlawfully Carrying a Concealed Weapon

If you do not have a valid permit to carry a concealed firearm and are found doing so, you may face up to a $5,000 fine and/or a maximum of 18 months in prison. You can also be charged with this offense if you do have a valid permit but do not inform the accusing officer of your weapon and permit, not complying with orders from an officer, or attempt to touch your firearm without instruction from an officer.

• Improperly Discharging a Firearm

Depending on the location of an improper firearm discharge, you can face up to eight years in prison for violation of this law. Firearms discharge is prohibited in occupied residences, within 1,000 feet of school premises, and within a school safety zone. 

• Use of a Weapon While Intoxicated

Carrying or using a firearm when under the influence of either drugs or alcohol can lead to this charge. Depending on the severity of your intoxication, you can face up to 180 days in jail and/or a maximum $1,000 fine.

Reach Out to a Weapons Charge Lawyer in Dayton, OH

If you were charged with a weapons charge in Ohio, it’s essential to talk to a weapons charge lawyer in Dayton. Without knowledge of the legal system, it can be difficult to defend yourself in a court of law or negotiate settlements for your charge. A criminal conviction can result in significant consequences in your life, and it’s important to take your charge seriously. The attorneys at The VanNoy Firm are experienced in criminal law and will support you through your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.