Washington Gun Control Laws

The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution gives Americans the right to have and bear arms. However, according to article 1, Section 24, individuals, businesses, or corporation may not band together a group of armed individuals.  However, residents have the right to protect themselves, their families, and personal property from harm.

Carrying Guns and Possession Laws: Penalties & Regulations

Although most citizens have the right to own and possess a gun, no everyone has that privilege.  Some people simply need to become adults.  However, individuals convicted of a crime, especially a felon, generally forfeit the ability to have a gun.  Regulations mandate strict penalties for those individuals caught in unlawful possession of a firearm.  For example:

• Minors in possession of a firearm in their car will have their licenses revoked immediately
• An individual bonded out and awaiting trial may not possess a gun
• Illegal possession of a firearm is a Class B Felony, punishable by a maximum term of 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $20,000, or both

Requirements:

Washington Gun Purchasing Laws

 Although the state of Washington does not require a license to purchase a handgun, rifle, or shotgun, certain regulations apply. The purchaser must fill out an application.  The waiting period for a background check is 5 days.  Unless information is found resulting in the inability to purchase a firearm, the dealer will relinquish the weapon at the end of that time.  However, law enforcement can ask for an extension, if a case is pending in court.

Penalties & Regulations for Illegal Purchases

Not all citizens of Washington have the right to purchase a handgun, rifle, or shotgun.  For example, it is illegal to sell a weapon to a minor.  Of course, felons should not have the privilege of purchasing a gun.  However, in the event that individuals try to skirt the law, regulations and penalties for unlawful purchases will apply:

• Purchasing a gun for an unqualified individual is punishable by 5 years in prison, a possible $10,000 fine, or both
• Purchasing an illegal firearm is a Class C felony, punishable by 5 years in prison and a possible $10,000 fine
• Purchaser should have possession of weapon at all times.  If left in the vehicle, the gun should be locked in the car and out of sight.  Failure to do so is a misdemeanor offense

Requirements:

Firing Handguns and Self Defense

Washington is a stand “stand your ground” state.  If personal property and the home are invaded by a person(s) intent on a criminal act, the owner has the right to reciprocate with lethal force, if necessary. However, it is a misdemeanor to point a weapon at another individual, unless threatened with injury or death.

• It is not lawful to have a gun in a public location like a stadium or convention center
• It is unlawful to discharge a firearm in a public location that puts the general public in danger
• It is a Class C felony for a non-citizen to purchase a firearm. It is punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a possible $10,000 fine

Legal Help

In the state of Washington, the waiting period to purchase a gun is only 5 days.  No special permits or licenses are required. However, if an individual is facing gun charges, prison sentences and fines are harsh.  The services of a criminal attorney are vital.  A lawyer has the knowledge and experience to represent people who are facing consequences from crimes like:

• Illegal gun possession
• Illegal discharge of a weapon
• Minor in possession of a gun