Arizona’s New Concealed Weapons Law
Several laws went into effect this past week. For one, it is now lawful for Arizonans to possess sparklers! On a more serious note, however, it’s also okay for residents to carry a concealed weapon without a specific permit.
Arizona became only the second state to allow concealed weapons without a permit. The other state, Vermont, has a very different populous, with Arizona having several major metropolitan areas. The effects of the new law won’t be known for sometime, though gun rights advocates claim it should work to reduce crime.
Former Governor Janet Napolitano reportedly vetoed around 12 different weapons bills during her term. The new Governor, Jan Brewer, is a gun rights advocate, however, so the field changed when she took office in January 2009.
Under the new law, a person can carry a concealed weapon anywhere that an open carry was previously allowed. So, what once had to be carried in plain view, can now be placed in a purse or under the clothing.
According to the Arizona Republic, citizens carrying a weapon must disclose this when asked by police and the police can hold a citizen’s weapon during stops. Finally, the new laws stiffen penalties for crimes committed while in possession of a concealed firearm. In other words, the law will penalize those who use the expanded freedom to break other laws.
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit used to be a Class 1 Misdemeanor punishable by 6 months in jail. This offense was one of the many ways you could be charged with Misconduct Involving Weapons.
Misconduct involving weapons is a charge that’s applicable under many situations. It can carry up to Class 3 felony penalties of up to 3.5 years in prison. It seems the new laws only affected the concealed weapons aspect of the crime and things like defacing weapons, selling prohibited weapons, and discharging firearms are still considered quite serious offenses.
Gun laws are changing around the country and Arizona is no exception. While some think the new laws will decrease crime, others wonder how hiding weapons benefit anyone. Only time will tell.
Gun charges are taken very seriously in the courts. Although the 2nd Amendment guarantees your right to bear arms, Arizona makes several regulations regarding this. If you run afoul of any of these laws, you could be facing serious penalties.
If you’re facing charges like misconduct involving weapons, you need an aggressive defense attorney on your side. Contact me today for a consultation on your case and some valuable legal advice.
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