Weapons and Firearms Charges
The question of whether an individual should be allowed to carry a firearm and where has come under high scrutiny in the last few years. The fact remains, however, is that the Right to Bear Arms is protected by the 2nd Amendment to the United States Constitution.
With that being said, the state of Utah reserves the right to regulate guns and other weapons that are brought into the State. Moreover, not all individuals are allowed to carry weapons and not all firearms are legal.
Understanding Utah gun laws in Salt Lake City is imperative before an individual decides to purchase a firearm or weapon that could be considered dangerous.
Attorney for Firearms or Weapons Charges in Salt Lake City, UT
If you or someone you know has been charged with illegally carrying or displaying a dangerous weapon in Salt Lake City, UT, speaking with an experienced criminal defense lawyer can be the difference between faces extensive jail time and having your charges dropped or reduced.
Susanne Gustin is an attorney with more than two decades of experience. She has dedicated her career to fighting for the rights of individuals accused of crimes. Her office takes cases throughout Salt Lake City, and in the surrounding areas of Toole County, Weber County, Summit County, Davis County, and Utah County, UT.
Call Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law at 801-243-2814 now to schedule a no obligations consultation with Attorney Susanne Gustin.
Information Center
Types of Weapons Regulated in Utah
When most people think of dangerous weapons, they think only of guns and similar firearms. There are multiple classes of dangerous weapons, however, that may be regulated. Utah Statute 76-10-501 outlines a number of examples of regulated guns:
Antique Firearms:
- Any firearm with a matchlock, flintlock, percussion cap; or
- Any firearm manufactured before 1898
Concealed Firearm: a firearm that is hidden, secreted and may be readily accessible for immediate use.
Curio or Relic Firearm: special interest to a collector, such as firearms intended for sporting use, an offensive weapon, or a defensive weapon.
Dangerous Weapons
A dangerous weapon, on the other hand, means a firearm or an object that, in the manner of its use or intended use, is capable of causing serious bodily harm or death.
Types of Weapons Charges in Utah
Gun regulations range from prohibiting individuals from obtaining certain types of firearms or other weapons, to regulating the sale and exchange of weapons.
The state of Utah manages weapons and firearms within the State, but the Federal government may regulate get involved if an individual is found to be sending or receiving weapons or firearms across State lines.
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon – 76-10- 504
- Carrying a Loaded Firearm in a Vehicle or on a Street – 76-10-505
- Threatening with or Using a Dangerous Weapon in a Fight – 76-10-506
- Discharge of a Firearm From a Vehicle – 76-10-508
- Possession of a Dangerous Weapon by a Minor – 76-5-509
- Carrying a Weapon while under the Influence – 76-10-528
Penalties for Weapons and Firearms Charges
The penalty for weapons and firearms charges in Salt Lake City, Utah can take the form of a misdemeanor or a felony. The consequences of a weapons crime will be determined by the category of the crime charged and the circumstances surrounding the offense.
For example, an individual who illegally carries a concealed loaded firearm may be charged with a class A misdemeanor. A person who carries a concealed and unlawfully possessed shotgun, however, may be charged with a second-degree felony.
Additional Resources
Chapter 10; Part 5 Weapons Offenses – Visit the Utah State Legislature website for the full list of weapons penalties under Utah law. Find the full statutory language, including the jail penalties and fines that follow a conviction of one of the listed offenses.
Find a Lawyer for Weapons Offenses in Utah County, UT
If you or someone you know has been charged with a weapons offense in Utah County, Toole County, Weber County, Summit County, or Davis County, Utah, contact the experienced criminal defense attorney at Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law.
With more than two decades of experience, Attorney Susanne Gustin is known for being a zealous advocate for the rights of criminal defendants accused of firearms crimes, violent crimes, and other offenses.
Call 801-243-2814 for a free, no obligations, consultation.
