In the past few years, Florida enacted significant changes to its gun laws. Understanding these changes is crucial for gun owners and those considering purchasing a firearm in the state. Staying up-to-date on Florida’s laws can help you avoid potential legal trouble.
Understanding the New Gun Laws
Florida’s new gun laws, which became effective on July 1, 2023, center around permitless carry. Failure to understand these laws could get you into legal trouble.
Permitless Carry
The permitless carry law allows eligible individuals to carry a concealed firearm without a permit. However, individuals looking to carry a firearm without a permit must still meet certain conditions, including:
- Individuals must be 21 years or older
- Individuals must be permanent U.S. residents or citizens
- Individuals must not have any disqualifying criminal convictions
- Individuals must not have an addiction to a controlled substance
Restricted Areas
Even with permitless carry, there are still specific areas where carrying firearms is prohibited. These areas include:
- Schools, colleges, and universities
- Government buildings and courthouses
- “Places of nuisance” including bars and nightclubs
- Airports
- Polling places during elections
- Police, sheriff, and highway patrol stations
- Prisons, jails, and other detention facilities
- Any place where federal law prohibits carrying a firearm
Violating these restrictions can lead to severe legal consequences, including arrest and prosecution.
Background Checks and Waiting Periods
All individuals purchasing a firearm must still undergo a mandatory background check. There is also a mandatory three-day waiting period for firearm purchases. However, some counties and cities may have ordinances extending the waiting period up to five days.
Steps to Take to Avoid Arrest
You can take a few simple steps to avoid getting into legal trouble while carrying a concealed firearm without a permit.
Stay Informed
Keeping up-to-date with the latest gun laws and regulations is essential for any gun owner. Laws can change, and being unaware of new laws can lead to unintentional violations. Regularly check the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) website or your local police department or sheriff’s office website for updates.
Know Where You Can Carry
Familiarize yourself with the locations that prohibit carrying a firearm, even for those with a permit. You should always double-check the rules before carrying a firearm into a premises you are unsure about.
Maintain Proper Documentation
Even though you no longer need a permit to carry a concealed firearm in Florida, you must still carry a valid ID when in possession of a firearm. Failure to present your ID to a law enforcement officer upon request could result in a fine.
Understand Self-Defense Laws
Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law allows individuals to use deadly force if they believe it’s necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm. However, understanding the nuances of this law is crucial. Misinterpreting the law can lead to legal issues and potential arrest.
Safe Storage
Make you safely store firearms when they’re not in use. Safe storage includes using gun safes, lockboxes, and trigger locks. These practices prevent accidents resulting from unauthorized access to your firearms.
Seek Legal Advice
If you have any doubts or questions about Florida’s new gun laws, consult a seasoned Florida attorney. An attorney experienced in firearm laws can provide personalized advice and assist you in remaining compliant with all laws and regulations.
Panama City Criminal Defense Attorney
Navigating Florida’s gun laws can be challenging, as they frequently change. But you can stay on the right side of the law by being informed, knowing where you can legally carry, maintaining proper documentation, and following other firearm best practices.
Contact The Sombathy Law Firm for a consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys.
