Everyday that you turn on the news you will see another salacious report that includes the use, or misuse, of guns. Those hot button topics feel like they are irrelevant until you find yourself facing charges that include a weapons possession. Attorney Scott McClintock has some advice for you should you ever find yourself with a gun in a tight spot.
WHO CAN CARRY A FIREARM?
In Illinois 3.4% of the population has a concealed carry license. This percentage is made up of residents who are over the age of 21 and who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States. In addition, applications must be made to the State Police where certain qualifications will be examined. Lastly, applicants for a Concealed Carry License (or CCL) must have completed a 16 hour firearms training course.
Once a Concealed Carry License is issued, a person can only carry a handgun as no other weapons are lawfully allowed under Illinois law. Your handgun must be completely, or mostly, concealed from the public. If however, you do not obtain a Firearm Owners Identification Card (or FOID) with your CCL you may not legally possess a loaded firearm or purchase ammunition. All of these precautions are important to the State of Illinois to keep the public safe.
But what if you are arrested when you have a gun in your possession?
WHAT IF I HAVE A GUN WHEN I AM ARRESTED?
Scott understands that mistakes happen and trouble can sneak up on you. It is important to always be aware of posted “No Weapons Allowed” signs and locations where firearms are prohibited. In Illinois you may not carry a weapon into a building or parking area of any bar or business that serves alcohol or in roadside rest areas. Illinois law permits you to have a gun in your vehicle if you have a valid FOID and it is unloaded and cased, unless you have a CCL.
In addition, in many situations, having a gun in your possession can lead to enhanced charges. This can be true even when you have a permit to carry a handgun. For example, if there is a gun nearby if you are charged with possession of illegal drugs or if you are in possession of a firearm if you’re accused of assault, your charges could be very negatively affected.
WHO IS THE BEST CRIMINAL ATTORNEY NEAR ME?
Attorney Scott McClintock understands that the type of gun charge you face is a serious situation that requires expert attention. Scott will work for you to make sure that you are treated fairly and not penalized for being a lawful gun owner in Illinois. McClintock Law has the experience to get you a favorable outcome. Whenever you’re in a tight spot, you’ve got Scott.
Get your free consultation now by clicking the Contact Us button or by calling (309) 715-7181 today.
