Prince George’s County Gun Laws

Prince George’s County strictly enforces the State of Maryland’s gun laws. Maryland gun laws, in general, are more stringent and oppressive than other states for several reasons. Due in part to gun violence, the neighboring Baltimore City is one of the deadliest per capita cities in the country. Because of that, there is a strong push to come down harshly on any gun charge or gun violence. Even how someone transports, possesses, or otherwise lawfully engages in firearm use and ownership is far more restrictive and oppressive than other states.

If you were charged with a violation of Prince George’s County gun laws, you may need assistance defending yourself. An experienced attorney could aid in your defense and help protect you from the prosecution.

Before Buying a Gun

Anyone considering buying a gun should become well versed with the regulations regarding ownership of a firearm, as well as transportation. Ignorance of the law is no defense. If a person is mishandling a firearm, regardless of what their impression or intention was, they are going to be found guilty because of the severity and the dangerousness of the firearm. Whenever in doubt, consult an attorney.

If someone is truly concerned about what they can legally do with a firearm in Maryland, they can research Maryland Government websites regarding firearms or they could speak to a criminal defense attorney regarding what proper ownership is. The information is readily available online or through counsel.

Transporting Firearms into Maryland

A person who transports any firearms is subject to the laws, including transportation requirements, of any state the person travels through. For example, in Virginia and Pennsylvania, a person may be permitted to have a firearm in their glove box, but in Maryland, they cannot. In Maryland, a firearm must be stored in the trunk or, if that is not possible, unloaded and stored separately in a case from ammunition. Even though this is not necessary in Virginia, a firearm must be stored in this fashion prior to entering Maryland or the owner risks arrest. There are some firearms that cannot be transported across state lines at all. In those situations, a person needs a Federal Firearms License (“FFL”). Certain gun dealers can assist with this and are able to transport a firearm through proper channels where an individual cannot.

Prince George’s County visitors and residents should also note that conceal permits from other states do not carry over to Maryland.

The Future of Local Gun Laws

There will always be modifications and adjustments to Prince George’s County gun laws, but it is unlikely that there will be a grand, sweeping change. Any changes would be something minor, such as banning bump stocks, like the device used by the Vegas Shooter to turn a regular firearm into basically the equivalent of a machine gun. Certain caliber firearms, certain models will be very narrowly tailored, and that will not affect the vast majority of gun rights and gun ownership.

Contacting a Prince George’s County Gun Attorney

If you have been charged with a violation of Prince George’s County gun laws, you should call an attorney as soon as possible. A seasoned criminal defense lawyer could try to remedy the situation, and they could fight in court on your behalf if necessary.