New Haven Gun Lawyer

Connecticut’s gun laws are among the strictest in the country. Alleged violations could lead to fines, a jail sentence, and the loss of civil rights.

If you are facing charges related to possession or ownership of a firearm, call a New Haven gun lawyer for help. A legal professional at Ruane Attorneys could mount a vigorous defense to the charges and protect your right to bear arms.

Who May Own a Gun

Most adult Connecticut residents have the legal right to buy or own firearms in the state if they meet the legal permitting requirements. However, the law restricts some people from owning firearms.

Criminal convictions could disqualify a person from gun ownership if the offense were a felony or a violent misdemeanor. The law bars anyone convicted of a serious offense as a juvenile from gun ownership. Anyone who was involuntarily committed to a psychiatric institution within the past year or who voluntarily admitted themselves to a psychiatric facility within the past six months is ineligible to own or possess guns.

The subject of a restraining order or protective order may not possess firearms. Connecticut General Statutes §29-38c allows the state police to seize the guns of anyone they have probable cause to believe poses a threat to themselves or others.

Type of Gun Determines Legal Requirements

The law imposes different requirements on people depending on the type of weapon they wish to own.

Handguns

Handguns have barrels less than 12 inches in length. Anyone at least 21 and a resident of the state can apply for a permit at their town’s police station or Selectman’s Office. Once a permit is issued, the handgun owner must carry it with them when they carry their gun.

Long Guns

Long guns include rifles and shotguns. Although long gun owners do not need permits, they require an eligibility certificate. The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection issues eligibility certificates if the applicant:

• Is 18 or older
• Has completed a firearms training course
• Passes a criminal background check
• Has no disqualifying psychiatric history

Assault Weapons

In this state, it is illegal to own, possess, buy, sell, or trade an assault weapon. The law defines these as selective-fire firearms capable of semi-automatic, fully automatic, or burst fire. Parts that can convert a firearm into an assault weapon are also illegal to own, possess, buy, sell, or trade.

Machine Guns

A machine gun is a weapon that shoots more than one projectile with a single trigger press without reloading. It is illegal to possess a machine gun for an aggressive purpose. Several conditions could allow authorities to presume someone possesses a machine gun for an aggressive purpose.

Regardless of the type of weapon involved in a firearm charge, it is crucial to seek legal counsel from a lawyer in New Haven as soon as possible.

Defeat Gun Charges with a New Haven Attorney

If you face gun charges, you risk hefty fines, jail time, and permanent limitations on your rights if convicted. It is critical to take weapon-related charges seriously.

A New Haven gun lawyer could vigorously defend you and work tirelessly to protect your rights. Call Ruane Attorneys today to schedule a consultation and discuss your situation.