Las Vegas Weapons Offenses: Understanding Penalties & Laws
Understanding Open Carry Laws in Las Vegas
Each state has its own specific implementation of laws involving weapons, including firearms, knives, and more. In Nevada, the Second Amendment right to bear arms is protected. Open carry is permitted throughout the state, without a permit, except in certain locations. Adults do not need a permit to purchase a firearm and do not need to register handguns (SB 175). Concealed carry requires a license.
Nevada is less restrictive than some states when it comes to firearms and other weapons, but harsh penalties may be imposed upon persons who are accused of violating gun laws. It is important to fully understand your rights and precisely how gun laws may apply to your unique situation.
If you have questions about any type of weapons offense or have been accused of a crime, do not wait to seek counsel. Call Attorney Jennifer Ferris at (702) 710-8882.
Who Is Prohibited from Firearm Possession in Nevada?
Although you have the constitutional right to bear arms, under federal law and Nevada law, you may be prohibited from owning a firearm if:
- You are convicted of a felony;
- You are convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence;
- You have a domestic violence restraining order against you;
- You are an addict of alcohol or drugs;
- You were dishonorably discharged from the military;
- You have been adjudicated as mentally ill or have been committed; or
- You are not a legal U.S. citizen or resident.
Common Types of Gun Crimes in Nevada
The following are specific types of gun-related offenses and their classifications under Nevada law (NRS 202.253-369):
- Unlawful possession of a firearm by an ex-felon or addict (category B felony)
- Unlawful possession of a firearm by a mentally ill individual or illegal alien (category D felony)
- Possession of a firearm in violation of a protective order (gross misdemeanor)
- Possession of a firearm with a blood alcohol concentration of .1% or greater (misdemeanor)
- Possession of a firearm in a prohibited location such as a school, airport, etc. (misdemeanor)
- Concealed carry of a weapon without a permit (category C felony)
One can also face criminal charges for the unlawful shooting of a firearm (misdemeanor, gross misdemeamor or felony depending on the specific facts), for drawing or aiming a gun at another person (gross misdemeanor or felony depending on the specific facts), or for the illegal sales and marketing of firearms (category C felony).
Understanding Sentencing Enhancements for Weapons Offenses
Possessing or using a firearm in the commission of a crime may result in substantial sentencing enhancements. Robbery with use of a deadly weapon, for example, may result in a maximum term of 30 years in prison, as opposed to the 15-year maximum that would apply if the defendant had not been in possession of a deadly weapon (NRS 200.380).
Considering the grave consequences of a weapons offense conviction, Ferris Law is committed to delivering only the highest quality representation and personalized service in these cases. We know you are a real person with a real future that is being threatened by criminal charges. As a Las Vegas weapons offense attorney with an intimate knowledge of legislation and case law pertaining to firearms and all types of weapon-related charges, Jennifer Ferris is prepared to guide you toward a brighter future.
Call (702) 710-8882 today or contact us online to get started.
Our Recent Victories
Our attorney uses the experience she has with particular crimes, judges, and prosecutors to properly advise clients on realistic outcomes and to best anticipate possible strengths or weaknesses in their case. Having this experience allows us to read through fact patterns and quickly pick out all viable defenses that are most favorable to the client. For these reasons and more, we have achieved many favorable results in a wide range of practice areas.
-
Case Dismissed Battery Domestic Violence
-
Reduced to Battery Charged with Attempt Murder with a Deadly Weapon
-
Reduced to Misdemeanor Charged with Battery with Use of a Deadly Weapon
-
Case Dismissed Charged with Battery with Use of a Deadly Weapon Resulting in Substantial Bodily Harm
-
Case dismissed Charged with Battery with Use of a Deadly Weapon Resulting in Substantial Bodily Harm