Last week, an Illinois man brought a gun into two different bars in Gages Lake. He has been charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and reckless discharge of a firearm. The defendant allegedly displayed his weapon while outside one bar while walking over to another bar. Then witnesses stated that they heard two gunshots.
Firearm sales have risen tremendously in the last few months, as a result of dangerous riots and high murder rates. If you are one of the many people who have purchased a firearm in Illinois, it is important that you understand Illinois gun laws. Gun owners with good intentions can be charged with serious crimes, such as unlawful use of a weapon, for bringing their firearm with them in certain locations or without the proper licensing.
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
In Illinois, weapons charges are taken seriously. If you are facing a charge for unlawful possession of a firearm, you could face up to three years in prison as well as significant fines. Keep in mind that you can be charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, even if you purchased a gun legally. Unlawful possession of a firearm includes all of the following circumstances in Illinois:
- Possession of a firearm of any size that may be concealed when under the age of 18
- Possessing a firearm or ammunition while under the age of 21 when you have been convicted of a misdemeanor, other than a traffic violation, or are delinquent
- Possession of a firearm or ammunition when you are addicted to narcotics
- Possession of a firearm or ammunition when you have been a patient in a Mental Health institution within five years of the incident
- Possession of any explosive bullet
The facts of your specific case will dictate whether you will be charged with a Class A Misdemeanor or up to a Class 4 Felony, which carries between one and three years in prison, up to 30 months of probation, and significant fines.
Unlawful Use of a Weapon
The crime of unlawful use of a weapon happens when someone has a gun in public without a valid Concealed Carry Permit. When a person does not have a FOID card, or when the person is carrying a loaded gun in public, he or she will face charges for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. Once again, you can face charges for unlawful use of a weapon, even if you legally purchased your firearm and have a valid FOID card. Unless you have a concealed carry permit that is up to date, you cannot take your firearm in public with you. Even then, there are certain places you cannot bring a weapon, including government buildings and schools.
Contact an Experienced Law Firm Today
If you are facing criminal charges for unlawful possession of a firearm or unlawful use of a weapon, you need a skilled criminal defense lawyer on your side. When you need a lawyer, experience matters, contact Glasgow & Olsson today to schedule your initial consultation.