(843) 374 - 4529
The State of South Carolina takes weapons charges especially seriously, which means you should do the same. A conviction can do irreparable damage to your social standing, your career, and your plans for your future, which makes it in your best interest to work closely with a savvy Kingstree, SC, (/) from the start.
Constitutional Carry in South Carolina
Since March of 2024 – when constitutional carry was implemented in the state – you no longer need a permit in order to carry a gun in South Carolina. Now, anyone who is at least 18 years old – and is not otherwise barred from doing so – can open carry a gun or carry a concealed gun in the state with no permit requirements attached.
Carrying a Gun during the Commission of a Crime
When someone carries a gun during the commission of a crime, however, things change dramatically. Under these circumstances, carrying a gun is a charge enhancement, which means stiffer fines and penalties will apply.
Unlawful Carry of a Handgun
The most common gun charge in South Carolina is unlawful carry of a handgun. Constitutional carry is not without its limitations, and there are certain situations when gun possession is always against the law, including being in possession of a gun that you know was stolen and being in possession of a gun that has an illegible serial number or that has had its serial number removed.
Those Who Aren’t Allowed to Possess Guns in South Carolina
Some groups of people are restricted from possessing guns in South Carolina, and prime examples include:
- Anyone younger than 18 years old
- Anyone who has a violent crime conviction in South Carolina or in any other state
- Anyone who has a domestic violence conviction in South Carolina or in any other state
- Those who have warrants out for their arrest
- Those who are considered habitual drunkards
- Those who are deemed mentally incompetent
- Anyone whom a circuit or county judge finds unfit to possess a firearm
- Members of what are considered subversive organizations
- Anyone whom the federal government prohibits from possessing a gun
Unlawful possession charges are generally felonies, and convictions carry up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $2,000.
Common Weapons Charges
In addition to unlawful carry of a handgun and unlawful possession charges, the most common weapons charges in South Carolina include the following:
- Unlawful sale of a handgun
- Pointing a firearm at another person
- Unlawful transportation of a handgun
You Need an Experienced Kingstree, SC, Weapons Charges Lawyer on Your Side
Cezar McKnight at The Law Offices of Cezar McKnight is a formidable Kingstree, SC, weapons charges attorney who has a wealth of experience successfully guiding challenging cases toward optimal outcomes that support his clients’ brightest futures. We are here for you too, so please don’t hesitate to contact us online or call 843-374-4529 for more information today.