Are You a Weapon or a Gun Owner?

Are you a New Yorker who owns a gun? Are you familiar with all the regulations and laws? A criminal charge could be brought against you if you are found to be in possession of a particular type of gun. Learn more about the laws governing firearm possession and purchase. Contact a trusted and reliable New York criminal lawyer today if you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor or felony for criminal possession. Benjamin Greenwald can confidently handle your case.

Firearm Use Orange County NY

Purchase Firearms

  • A permit is not required in New York to purchase a rifle, shotgun or other weapon. You must be licensed to possess or carry a pistol or revolver before you can purchase a handgun.
  • A New York resident can purchase a rifle or shotgun at a border-sharing country if they are allowed to do so.
  • Private sales, exchanges, and disposals of firearms require a criminal background investigation under the SAFE Act. To ensure the background check is completed, the superintendent of the state police must approve it.
  • A felony charge will be filed if you buy a firearm knowing you are not allowed to possess it. You could be prohibited from buying a firearm if you have a prior conviction or are disabled by another legal issue.

Possession a Rifle/Shotgun

  • A rifle barrel must be at least 16 inches long and a shotgun barrel must be at least 18 inches. There are no state licensing requirements for owning a rifle or shotgun.
  • A “firearm” is any pistol, revolver or shotgun with a barrel less than 18 inches.
  • It is illegal to possess a rifle, shotgun or rifle if you have been convicted for a felony or serious crime.
  • Possession of a loaded firearm is an offense and can lead to a conviction. It is permissible if the firearm is located in the home or business of the person.

Possession of Handgun

  • To possess a handgun, you must have a license. A license application must be made to the county or city where you live. The licensing officer will approve the license.
  • If you are 21 years old or older, have not been convicted of any felony or serious crime, and have not been dishonoured, a license may be granted.
  • Each handgun must be identified in the license with the make, model and caliber as well as the serial number.

Handgun Carry

  • The handgun license must indicate whether the handgun can be carried on your person or in specific places. To allow you to carry a handgun out of your home, you must have “proper cause”.
  • The license must be carried at all times.

There are many laws that govern the possession, purchase, and carry of handguns. Contact a criminal attorney immediately if you face criminal charges. Benjamin Greenwald, a criminal lawyer, has the experience and expertise to provide expert advice, guidance and support for your particular situation. For a free consultation, call today