At King Law, our concealed carry defense attorneys are committed to protecting the rights of individuals when it comes to concealed carry permits. Our experienced concealed carry defense attorneys will help you understand the laws and regulations and ensure your rights are respected. In this article, we’ll discuss the laws surrounding concealed carry in North Carolina, the process of obtaining a permit, and the penalties for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit.
What Is the Difference Between Concealed and Open Carry?
In North Carolina, open carry is when an individual carries a firearm in plain view of the public without a permit. Concealed carry is when an individual carries a firearm out of plain view and it is not readily discernable to others. To concealed carry, an individual must have a valid North Carolina Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP).
To be eligible for a CHP, an individual must be at least 21 years of age, a resident of North Carolina or a member of the US Armed Forces stationed in North Carolina. They must not have any criminal convictions or mental health issues that would disqualify them from owning a firearm. Additionally, CHPs only permit concealed carry of handguns, not long guns.
What Are the Penalties for Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without a Permit in North Carolina?
Carrying a concealed weapon without a valid CHP is illegal in North Carolina and can lead to serious criminal penalties. These penalties apply whether you have an expired/confiscated CHP or have never had one.
For the first offense, an individual can be charged with a Class 2 misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. For subsequent offenses, an individual can be charged with a Class H felony, which is punishable by up to 25 months in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
What Kinds of Weapons Are Not Covered Under a CHP?
Concealed Handgun Permits in North Carolina only pertain to handguns. Other firearms and accessories that are illegal to carry include:
Machine Guns and Similar Automatic Weapons
Machine guns and similar automatic weapons are highly regulated due to their destructive potential. This includes any parts for converting weapons into machine guns.
Sawed-Off Shotguns:
Sawed-off shotguns are modified to have a shorter length than the original model. Regulations governing sawed-off shotguns are generally stricter than those governing traditional shotguns.
Silencers for Firearms
Silencers are devices attached to the end of a gun barrel to reduce the noise created by a gunshot. Regulations on the sale and possession of silencers vary by jurisdiction.
Teflon-Coated Bullets
Teflon-coated bullets, also known as “cop-killer bullets,” have been coated with a layer of Teflon to increase their penetration power. These bullets are highly regulated due to their increased risk to law enforcement officers.
Places in NC Where It Is Illegal to Carry a Concealed Weapon
Even with a valid CHP, there are some places in North Carolina where it is illegal to carry a concealed weapon. These include:
Schools, School Grounds, and School Buses
Carrying firearms is prohibited on all public and private school campuses and property. This is for the safety of the students and staff on campus and to prevent potential violence in these areas. Schools, school grounds, and school buses should remain a safe environment for everyone involved.
Government Buildings
Carrying firearms in government buildings is prohibited. This includes federal, state, and local government buildings. The ban on firearms in these areas is in place to ensure the safety of all those inside the building and protect against potential violence.
Establishments Where Alcohol Is Served by the Drink
Areas in which alcohol is served by the drink are also prohibited from allowing the carrying of firearms. This is to ensure that the environment remains safe and free from any potential violence that the presence of firearms may cause. It is important to note that this ban applies only to establishments where alcohol is served by the drink and not to retail stores that sell alcohol.
Areas of Assembly, Such as Churches, Parades, and Political Rallies
The carrying of firearms is also prohibited in areas of assembly, such as churches, parades, and political rallies. This is to ensure the safety of all those involved. It is important to note that this ban applies to all areas of assembly, not just churches and political rallies.
Any Place Where the Carrying of Firearms Is Prohibited by Federal Law
The carrying of firearms is prohibited in any place mandated by federal law. This includes all places where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by either state or federal law. It is important to abide by these laws to ensure the safety of all those involved.
Ready to Protect Your Rights? Contact King Law for Concealed Weapons Defense Lawyer
The ability to carry firearms lawfully is enshrined in the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution. However, with this right comes the responsibility to understand and abide by the laws that govern concealed carry. Even those who abide by the law can find themselves facing charges for improper possession of a firearm.
If you’re facing charges related to concealed carry, you should contact an experienced concealed carry defense lawyer as soon as possible. At King Law, we understand that you may have acted in self-defense or had a valid concealed carry permit. Our concealed carry defense attorneys will aggressively fight your charges and protect your rights. Our goal is to get your charges reduced or dismissed. Contact us online or call (888) 748-5464 or (888) 748-KING today to schedule a consultation.