Unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon is an offense in Jefferson County, Colorado that involves having a firearm or knife on or about your person in certain situations. While some exceptions exist for having these items, disobeying concealed carry restrictions or bringing weapons to a location where government business occurs can lead to criminal charges. Too often innocent people might violate this law without meaning to, placing their ability to possess firearms in jeopardy. Reaching out to a skilled defense attorney is especially important when facing an accusation of an unlawful carry in Colorado.
Things to Know About Colorado’s Concealed Weapon Law
CRS 18-12-105 addresses unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon in Colorado. You commit this crime in Arvada, Golden, or Lakewood if you hide a firearm somewhere on your body without a valid concealed carry permit. Carrying a knife with a blade beyond 3.5 inches is also unlawful in Jefferson County. Another situation where people can face unlawful carry charges is if they bring a firearm or explosive device into a location where government business occurs. This applies to places like courthouses, county buildings, and schools.
However, there are exceptions when it is legal to carry a concealed weapon. Some of those include:
- With a valid concealed carry permit,
- In your vehicle for self-defense,
- At home or at a business / property you own,
- As an on-duty police officer or probation officer
Can You Go to Jail for Unlawfully Carrying a Concealed Weapon in Jefferson County?
Unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon is a class 1 misdemeanor throughout the state of Colorado. This means conviction can result in up to a year in county jail and fines of up to $1,000. Elevated penalties exist for a second or additional offense within 5 years of the first case. These violations result in a class 5 felony, which carries 1 – 3 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines. Additionally, conviction of a felony firearm crime strips your right to own or possess a firearm moving forward.
Firearm Crime Attorney in Jefferson County
Hiring a skilled firearms lawyer early on is essential in cases of unlawful weapon possession. There are defenses and exceptions to these situations that an experienced attorney may be able to apply to your case. Perhaps you were on your own property, held a valid permit, or you didn’t know you possessed the weapon. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free initial consolation. We will carefully analyze your unlawful carry case and recommend next steps in your defense.