Maryland Gun Control Laws

Regulations and laws concerning firearms in the state of Maryland are strict. Maryland makes a unique distinction in their laws between a 'regulated firearm' and all other firearms. A 'regulated firearm' defines all types of handguns and 'assault-style' rifles. Regular rifles and shotguns are completely unregulated under Maryland state law. Different permits must be issued for the ability to carry and the ability to conceal a 'regulated firearm.' Possession of non assault-style rifles and shotguns is unregulated in Maryland. However, handguns or 'regulated firearms' are regulated heavily.

These firearms must all be registered with authorities. These concealment permits are extremely difficult to obtain. One must prove that it is required for the safety of their everyday life in order to be granted such a permit. Permits are valid for one year, and must be renewed annually. There are also online lecture and training course is required.

Carrying Guns and Possession Laws: Penalties & Regulations

• First time offense for possession of a 'regulated firearm' is punishable by no more than misdemeanor
• A jail sentence anywhere from 30 days to 3 years and a fine of $250 to $2,500 is warranted for an individual convicted of carrying a 'regulated firearm,' concealed or not
• The jail sentence for those convicted of carrying a firearm on any school or state grounds is no less than 90 days

Requirements:

Maryland Gun Purchasing Laws

Licenses are not required or given out to firearms owners; however, an application process must be completed before an individual can purchase a 'regulated firearm.' These applications are often turned back, because there are many specifications a person must meet. The transfer of normal rifles and shotguns is unregulated.

Penalties & Regulations for Unlawful Purchases

• A 'regulated firearm' may be purchased only once in a 30 day period
• The purchase, sale, or transfer of any sort of a firearm with a damaged manufacturer's information is unlawful and the dealer's license will be revoked
• Use of false information to obtain a dealer's license is punishable by a jail sentence of no more than 3 years and a fine of not more than $5,000

Requirements:

Firing Handguns and Self Defense

Use of firearms in self-defense is legal in the state of Maryland, but only under very specific conditions. The following may cause the defender to be criminally charged after using deadly force in defense:

• Use of deadly force with a firearm in self-defense in any location other than one's own home, or place of dwelling
• Use of deadly force with a firearm when the ability to retreat is a readily available substitute
• Use of deadly force when the attacker has not initiated a fatal threat to the defenders life

Legal Help

With the strict laws in place to govern the use of 'regulated firearms' in the state of Maryland a wide variety of infractions may occur. Attorneys are vital in these situations, where there are many possible violations. Some of the most common infractions against these laws are the following:

• Felon or convict of other qualifying crimes in possession of any firearm
• Possession of a 'regulated firearm' without the proper permits
• Unlawful transfer of a firearm on a roadway across interstate