Texas’s gun laws are among the most lenient in the country. You do not need a state-issued license or permit to own or carry a gun in most places. Still, the state has certain laws and regulations in place to prevent certain people from owning or carrying guns. That is, of course, in order to maintain public order and keep our communities safe. If you are someone who has been convicted of a crime, you may or may not be able to carry a gun. That will depend on the crime you were convicted for.
Texas Gun Laws – Who Is Prohibited from Owning and Carrying a Gun?
Under Texas gun laws, anyone who is over the age of 21 can own and carry a gun without a state-issued license or permit. That is unless they are prohibited from doing so under the law.
For instance, if you are a convicted felon, you are prohibited from owning or carrying a gun anywhere for a period of five years. It starts from the day on which you were released or granted parole. Even after five years, you are only allowed to have a gun with you when you are at home. You cannot have a gun on your person or in your vehicle in a public place.
These restrictions are generally not applicable to individuals convicted of misdemeanors. However, there is one exception to this rule. If you have been convicted of family violence (Class A misdemeanor), you have to follow the aforementioned rule, which is primarily meant for convicted felons. You cannot own or carry a gun for a period of five years from your release.
In some cases, you might not be able to own or carry a gun with you. This is the case even if you have not been convicted of any crime. For instance, if your spouse or any other family member files a petition with the court to get a protective order against you, you might be prohibited from possessing or carrying a gun with you as long as the order is in effect.
How a Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You
Under Texas gun laws, a felony conviction or a family violence related misdemeanor conviction can severely curtail your rights to own and carry a gun. This is why it is important to be represented by a skilled Texas criminal defense attorney. It is especially important if you are facing felony or misdemeanor charges.
An experienced attorney can defend you aggressively as well as challenge the prosecution’s claims and evidence against you. He can also make convincing arguments to get your charges dropped, dismissed, or reduced to the extent possible. That way, your right to own and carry firearms will not be taken away from you.
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys in Austin, Texas to Protect Your Firearm Rights
If you are facing charges of misdemeanor or felony and worried that your freedom and right to own firearms might be taken away from you, the board-certified criminal defense lawyers at Hines & Holub can provide you with aggressive and passionate legal representation.
We have deep knowledge of Texas gun laws. Plus, we have successfully defended numerous clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges over the years. We are prepared to fight relentlessly for your rights, reputation, and freedom. To discuss your case with one of our experienced Austin firearm rights attorney, call us today at 512-883-5386 or contact us online and schedule a free consultation.
