Concealed weapons laws in Ohio are important for public safety. However, sometimes people find themselves facing charges for violating these laws, even if they did not mean to break the law. A charge for a concealed weapons violation can lead to serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and a criminal record that can follow you for life. Understanding how these laws work and what you can do if you are charged with a violation is important for building a strong defense. In Ohio, the law allows for concealed carry under certain conditions, but there are strict rules in place. If you are facing a concealed weapons violation, it is important to know your rights and what steps you can take to defend yourself. At, Sabol & Mallory Law Firm , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Dan Sabol
Dan is the first attorney in Ohio to be both board certified in criminal trial law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and be designated as a Lawyer Scientist by the American Chemical Society.
Chase Mallory
Chase Mallory is a firm founder whom has tried over 40 cases and conducted more than 100 suppression hearings. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association
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Learn more about our teamUnderstanding Concealed Carry Laws in Ohio
Ohio has clear laws about who can carry a concealed weapon and where they are allowed to carry it. Ohio is a state that allows concealed carry with a license, but even with a license, there are rules that must be followed. For example, individuals must inform police officers during traffic stops if they are carrying a concealed weapon. Failing to do so can lead to serious charges. Ohio law also restricts carrying concealed weapons in certain locations, such as schools, government buildings, and private businesses that post signs prohibiting weapons.
A person who carries a concealed weapon without a license, or who violates the restrictions placed on licensed carriers, may face criminal charges. These charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the situation. Some people are not allowed to carry weapons at all, including people with certain criminal convictions or those who have been deemed mentally incompetent by a court.
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Testimonials
Learn what our clients have to say about the work of Sabol Mallory. If you have any questions or need legal help for a criminal charge, please reach out to us right away.
Chase Mallory is incredible. He is wonderful to work with and knows exactly what to do to help his clients. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you've done for me. I highly recommend hiring Chase to help fight your battles. Bless you!
- Erin R.
Dan Sabol is probably the best attorney I've ever worked with. Very professional and worked hard to get the best results possible. He will be the first person I call if I need a lawyer again. If you find yourself in a sticky situation make sure you give him a ring.
- Christopher R.
I had the pleasure of working with Dan and Chase and I am very grateful!! They did amazing work to help me on my case. They are very helpful and get back with you in a timely manner whenever I had questions for them, which was very nice and reassuring.
- Jessica H.
Penalties for Concealed Weapons Violations in Ohio
The penalties for violating Ohio’s concealed carry laws can be severe. A person charged with carrying a concealed weapon without a license may face a first-degree misdemeanor. This can result in up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. If the person has a prior conviction or the circumstances of the offense are more serious, the charge can be elevated to a felony, which carries much harsher penalties. Felony charges can result in years in prison, thousands of dollars in fines, and a lifetime criminal record that may make it hard to find a job or housing.
In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction for a concealed weapons violation can result in the loss of your right to carry a firearm in the future. This can be a major consequence for people who rely on firearms for self-defense or for their jobs.
Common Defenses for Concealed Weapons Violations
If you have been charged with a concealed weapons violation in Ohio, it is important to know that you have options for defending yourself. A charge is not the same as a conviction, and there are several defenses that may be available depending on the circumstances of your case. One possible defense is that you had a valid concealed carry license at the time of the offense, but were not aware of the specific restrictions in place. For example, if you were carrying a weapon in a location where it was not allowed, but you were not aware that the location was off-limits, this may be a defense to the charges.
Another defense that may be available is that you were not actually carrying the weapon in a concealed manner. The law requires that the weapon be hidden from view in order for the charge to apply. If the weapon was visible, even partially, you may be able to argue that the concealed carry law does not apply to your situation.
Self-defense may also be a defense in some cases. If you were carrying the weapon for your own protection and were not intending to use it for any illegal purpose, this may be a factor that the court considers when determining whether to convict you of a violation.
How Intent and Circumstances Affect Your Case
The intent behind carrying a concealed weapon plays a big role in how your case is handled. If you accidentally carried the weapon without realizing it or were unaware of the restrictions on where you could carry it, the court may be more lenient. On the other hand, if there is evidence that you were carrying the weapon with the intent to commit a crime or to threaten someone, the penalties can be much more severe.
The circumstances of the case also matter. For example, if you were carrying a weapon in a location where firearms are strictly prohibited, such as a school or government building, the penalties may be more severe than if you were carrying the weapon in a less restricted area. Similarly, if you were arrested for carrying a concealed weapon while committing another crime, such as drug possession or assault, the charges and penalties may be more severe.
The Importance of Legal Representation
One of the most important steps you can take if you are facing a concealed weapons violation in Ohio is to get legal representation. Navigating the legal system on your own can be overwhelming and confusing. A lawyer can help you understand the charges against you, explore your options for defense, and represent you in court.
A lawyer will be familiar with Ohio’s concealed carry laws and can help you build a strong defense. This may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and challenging the prosecution’s case. A lawyer can also negotiate with the prosecutor to try to get the charges reduced or dismissed. In some cases, it may be possible to avoid jail time altogether or to have the charges expunged from your record after a certain period of time.
What to Expect During the Legal Process
If you are charged with a concealed weapons violation in Ohio, you will need to go through several stages of the legal process. First, you will be arraigned, which means that you will go before a judge and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. If you plead not guilty, the case will move forward to the pretrial stage, where your lawyer will gather evidence and begin building your defense.
During the pretrial stage, your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or to dismiss the charges. If the case goes to trial, your lawyer will present your defense in front of a judge or jury. If you are convicted, you may be sentenced to jail time, fines, or other penalties. However, in many cases, it is possible to resolve the case without going to trial, either through a plea bargain or by having the charges dismissed.
If you are facing charges for a concealed weapons violation in Ohio, Sabol & Mallory Law Firm can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. Our attorneys understand Ohio’s concealed carry laws and have experience defending clients against weapons charges. We will work closely with you to understand the circumstances of your case and to build a strong defense that aims to get the charges reduced or dismissed.
We know that facing criminal charges can be stressful and overwhelming, especially if you have never been involved with the legal system before. That is why we are committed to providing compassionate and dedicated legal representation. We will guide you through every step of the process and fight to protect your rights.
At Sabol & Mallory, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, we will work tirelessly to defend you in court and to help you move forward with your life.
If you have been charged with a concealed weapons violation, contact Sabol & Mallory Law Firm today. We are here to help you understand your legal options and to fight for your rights in court.