What You Need to Know About Maryland's Gun Laws

The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution gives individuals the right to lawfully possess firearms. Our job as attorneys is to uphold those rights for those being wrongfully charged for violating them. Please continue reading and reach out to our Maryland criminal defense attorneys to learn more about how to lawfully possess a firearm in Maryland, what happens if you are accused of unlawfully possessing one, and how we can help you fight any gun charges you may face. Here are some of the questions you may have:

How do I get a handgun in Maryland?

If you are looking to legally possess a handgun in Maryland, you will need a handgun permit. To get a permit, you will first have your digital fingerprints taken at a Maryland fingerprint processing center. Then, you must submit your digital fingerprints to the Maryland State Police. From here, your application must be submitted to the MSP for the Maryland Handgun Qualification License, and then you will have to attend and complete the 16-hour Firearms Safety Training Course. As long as you pass, you should receive your HQL card and verify it with a firearm dealer. You will then complete your application to purchase a handgun, have a dealer submit that application to the Maryland State Police, and your application to purchase a handgun should be approved within 7 days, and you may then purchase a handgun from a dealer.

What happens if I am caught illegally possessing a gun in Maryland?

If you are caught illegally possessing a handgun in Maryland, there is a very good chance you will receive a criminal record that may follow you for the rest of your life. This is why it is so critical you retain the services of an experienced Maryland criminal defense attorney who knows how to shield you from such charges. For the unlawful possession of a gun, you may face the following penalties:

• First Offense: Maximum 3 years of jail time, and a potential $2,500 fine
• Second Offense: Maximum 10 years in prison, and a potential fine

There are few things more damaging to a person than obtaining a criminal record. If you have any additional questions or are facing gun charges in Maryland, give us a call today. We are here to help.

Contact our experienced Maryland firm

Here at the Ruben Law Firm, we understand how much your legal situation means to you. That is why we pledge to provide you with the personalized attention you deserve, every step of the way. Our firm is more than happy to assist you through matters of personal injury law, bankruptcy, family law, criminal defense, and estate planning. Attorney Ruben has helped clients achieve favorable results in a wide array of legal matters for years, and he is ready to do the same for you. Simply contact the Ruben Law Firm today.