Rock Hill Weapons Offense Lawyer
Federal and State Law Regulate Weapon Possession and Criminal Offenses Related to Weapons Including Firearms
South Carolina weapons offenses are divided into several categories:
- Handgun related charges
- Offenses related to machine guns, modified long guns and military weapons
- Bomb and other destructive device charges
- Offenses related to unlawful uses of weapons
If you are facing weapons charges in South Carolina, be sure to consult with a skilled attorney as soon as possible. When you turn to Bruce Law Firm, our Rock Hill weapons offense lawyer can help you identify the best legal strategy and approach to get the best possible outcome. We are dedicated to fighting for the best possible outcome.
Call (803) 336-7189 or contact us online for a free consultation. Our team can take the time to listen to your side of the story and help you formulate a powerful defense.
He fought for me all the way through the end of my case and was very responsive when I had inquiries along the way.Brandon A.
Personalized Advocacy.
Fit For You.
- Easily Accessible to Clients
- Former Criminal Prosecutor
- Personalized Strategy for Each Case
- Over 30 Years of Diverse Professional Experience
Open & Concealed Carry Laws in South Carolina
One of the most common gun related charges we used to see in our office was “unlawful carrying of handgun”. This law made it unlawful for anyone to carry a handgun about the person, unless one of the exceptions listed in this statute exist. However, in 2024, the South Carolina Legislature amended this law such that now the prohibitions were related to places a person could not carry a pistol such as a courtroom, school athletic event and others. Unlawful carrying of a pistol is still a misdemeanor in SC and this crime carries a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisoned up to 1 year, or both. If convicted, the person also forfeits the handgun.
Now, a person in a vehicle may have the handgun carried openly or concealed on or about his or her person, whether or not he or she has a valid concealed weapons permit issued pursuant to South Carolina law, as long as the person is not otherwise prohibited.
There are locations where a concealed carry permit does not apply. Whether a person in South Carolina has a concealed carry permit or not, unless as otherwise provided by law, this person may not carry a concealed or open handgun into a:
(1) law enforcement, correctional, or detention facility;
(2) courthouse or courtroom;
(3) polling place on election days;
(4) office of or the business meeting of the governing body of a county, public school district, municipality, or special purpose district;
(5) school or college athletic event not related to firearms;
(6) daycare facility or preschool facility;
(7) place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law;
(8) church or other established religious sanctuary unless express permission is given by the appropriate church official or governing body;
(9) hospital, medical clinic, doctor's office, or any other facility where medical services or procedures are performed unless expressly authorized by the employer; or
(10) residence or dwelling of another person without permission; or
(11) place clearly marked with a sign prohibiting the carrying of a concealable weapon on the premises pursuant to Section 23-31-235.
Types of Firearm Offenses
At Bruce Law Firm, we take your gun rights and your freedom seriously. If you are facing a criminal charge for a weapons offense in South Carolina, count on our firm to defend you.
As a Rock Hill weapons offense lawyer, Attorney Bruce has the knowledge and experience to handle all types of charges, including:
- Unlawful carrying of a handgun
- Pointing or presenting a firearm
- Possession of a firearm by a person convicted of violent crime or a crime that carries more than 1 year
- Discharging a firearm into or at a dwelling
- Possession of firearm during commission of violent crime
If you or a loved one has been arrested for a weapons offense, do not hesitate to let us help you. We will use our experience to seek the best possible outcome for you.
Call (803) 336-7189 today or contact us online to obtain your strategic legal defense.
Types Of Criminal Defense Cases We Handle
Can a Felon Possess a Gun in South Carolina?
Under Federal law, it is a criminal offense for a person to possess a firearm if that person has been convicted of a crime that carries over 1 year in prison, a person awaiting trial on felony charge, or that person has been convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence.
Under South Carolina law, it is now also unlawful for a person to possess a firearm in the state if that person has been convicted of a crime that carries over 1 year in prison, if the person has been convicted of a crime of violence or, a felony crime classified as a “violent crime” under South Carolina law. Additionally, it is unlawful for a person convicted of domestic violence to possess a firearm; however, there are limitations and exceptions to this prohibition.
