01 Oct Who is prohibited from owning a gun in Maryland?

On behalf of Jack B. Rubin, PA posted in Weapons Crimes on Thursday, October 1, 2015.

There are different reasons that individuals may choose to own guns. Some enjoy the challenge of hunting and, therefore, need a good rifle. Others like to target shoot for sport and use guns suited for that task. And of course, many people have guns for home and personal protection. But regardless of the reason for having guns, it is important that gun owners follow all applicable state and federal laws.

Maryland has several laws that all gun owners should understand in order to avoid being arrested and charged with weapons crimes. For example, the state strictly prohibits the use of shotguns and rifles that have short barrels.

Additionally, not all Maryland residents are permitted to own firearms. The following is a list of those who are prohibited by state laws from owning a gun:

• Anyone under 21 years of age.
• Fugitives who are evading justice.
• Those with habitual alcohol, barbiturate, amphetamine or narcotics issues.
• Felons who have been convicted of committing violent acts.
• Those have had to undergo over 30 straight days of treatment in a mental institution.

These are just the laws of the state. Gun owners are also obligated to follow federal laws as well. And given that weapons charges can prove extremely serious, it behooves gun owners to be well acquainted with both state and federal regulations prior to taking personal possession of a firearm.

But it can be very easy for a typical law abiding citizen to run afoul of gun laws. If you should ever be facing a weapons charge, having an experienced criminal defense attorney represent your interest could be extremely beneficial. The attorney could look at the specifics of the case as well as the circumstances of the charges and prepare a defense strategy that may help secure an acceptable outcome.