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posted on 9/26/20

A Chicago stockbroker has been increasingly worried about his safety as he commutes to and from work. He has seen the record numbers of murders in Chicago in the last few months and is concerned that he will be assaulted while getting to and from his office. He has never owned a gun before and decides that his easiest option is to purchase a gun from his good friend who is always buying and trading guns. He pays his friend cash for a handgun and some accessories and puts the gun in his glove compartment.

A few days later, he is pulled over by police officers on his way home from work. He has had one too many drinks at a business function. The police officers ask if there are any guns or weapons in his car, and he answers “yes.” Now he is facing charges for illegal gun sales and possession of a gun without a valid FOID card.

Gun Sales are at a Record High

A large number of people are purchasing guns even though they are not familiar with Illinois gun laws. During the coronavirus pandemic, gun sales in Illinois have increased dramatically. Wait times for Firearm Owner Identification (FOID) cards in Illinois and the number of background checks have been hitting record highs for four months in a row. In June alone, over 63,000 people applied for new FOID cards in Illinois. This was the single highest month in the history of the FOID program. If you are a new gun owner in Illinois, it is important that you understand the legal requirements for gun ownership.

FOID Violations in Illinois

There are multiple ways that you can violate the laws regarding FOID cards in Illinois. All Illinois residents who possess firearms or ammunition need to have a valid FOID card, issued by the Illinois State Police. If you violate Illinois FOID card laws, you can face criminal charges, ranging from misdemeanors to felony charges. You could be found in noncompliance of the FOID card rules for any of the following:

  • Letting your FOID card expire
  • Being convicted of a felony and not turning in your FOID card
  • Being convicted of a domestic violence crime
  • Being the subject of an order of protection
  • Experiencing certain mental health issues

How You Can Get in Trouble With a Gun Without Even Firing it

Even if you have a FOID card, you can face misdemeanor charges for illegally carrying a gun. The crime of Unlawful Use of a Weapon can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor, which carries a punishment of up to a year in jail and a fine of $2,500. Suppose you have a loaded gun in your vehicle, and you are not in possession of a FOID card or a Concealed Carry Permit. In that case, you can face Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon charges, which is a serious crime ranging from a 4 felony that carries between one and three years in prison to a class X felony which carries between six to thirty years in prison.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Today

If you are facing gun-related criminal charges in Illinois, you need skilled legal help. When you need a lawyer, experience matters. The team at Glasgow & Olsson is prepared to fight for your rights. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.