Many people possess guns in Philadelphia. However, not everyone who possesses a gun does so legally. Certain people are unable to possess one based on a number of different factors. Generally the person has been convicted of certain crimes in the past, such as domestic abuse. If those people have a gun at all they may face gun charges and severe penalties.
However, even people that are legally able to possess a gun still need a license to carry that gun when they are in public. If not, they may encounter weapons charges. In order to obtain the license the person must be at least 21 years old and apply with the county sheriff or chief of police. The applicant must state the reason why they are applying for the license. They must also state that they have never been convicted of a crime prohibiting them from possessing a gun and that they are of sound mind, having never been committed to a mental institution.
The applicant also authorizes the sheriff or chief of police to conduct an investigation. The investigation looks at the applicant’s criminal record and verifies that the applicant has not been convicted of a felony. It also investigates into the applicant’s character to ensure that they will not be a danger to the public.
There are a number of factors prohibiting an individual from possessing a gun that will disqualify a person. These include if the person is addicted to or use drugs, if they are a habitual drunkard, if they have been committed to a mental institution and others.
Many people in Philadelphia have gone through this process and obtained a license to carry a gun in public. However, many others have not, and for these individuals the thought of felony gun charges or weapons possession allegations can be cause for concern. These people risk severe penalties if they are caught even unintentionally disobeying gun laws. An experienced weapons charges attorney can be of assistance when accused of a gun-related crime in Philadelphia.
Source: Pennsylvania General Assembly, “Pennsylvania Statutes Title 18 § 6109,” accessed on September 7, 2015
