Nevada Gun Control Laws

The U.S. Constitution gives citizens their Second Amendment rights to own and bear arms.  However, each state has the right to adopt certain laws and regulations.  For example, Nevada is a “shall issue” state.  The County Sheriff issues permits to carry concealed weapon for qualifying citizens at least 21 years of age.  Article I, Section II, paragraph I of the Nevada Constitution allows for the possession of guns for protection, hunting, and lawful recreational use.

Carrying Guns and Possession Laws: Penalties & Regulations

Unfortunately, individuals often give up their Second Amendment rights due to criminal activity.  A person(s) under the influence of drugs or alcohol cannot legally possess a firearm. Individuals under the age of 18 must have supervision of a parent, guardian, or licensed instructor.  While the laws do not make it difficult to possess a gun in the state of Nevada, the penalties are severe for those who disregard the law.

• Possession while under the influence is a misdemeanor, and the firearm will be confiscated
• Possession of a sawed off weapon or machine gun is a Class D felony, punishable by up to 4 years in prison and a $5000 fine
• A gross misdemeanor is the penalty, if found in possession of a firearm with the serial number altered in any way

Requirements:

Nevada Gun Purchasing Laws

In the state of Nevada, no permit is necessary to purchase a handgun, rifle, or shotgun.  However, it is unlawful to buy a weapon for an individual under the age of 18.  Even if a person has any inkling that the gun is for a minor, a visit before the judge will be necessary.  Of course, no one shall purchase a gun for an individual convicted of a felony that has given up the Constitutional right to carry a weapon.

Penalties & Regulations for Illegal Purchases

Unfortunately, some people will try to circumvent the law and purchase a gun illegally.  Whether the gun is for himself, herself, or another individual that should not have a weapon, the penalties in Nevada are severe.  Individuals convicted of gun crimes face mandatory prison time, fines, or both.  For example:

• Selling a concealed weapon to a minor is a class B felony, which is punishable by 1-20 years in prison
• Selling a machine gun or sawed off weapon is a class D felony. The sentence is a minimum of 1 year in prison and a possible $5000 fine-unless the circumstances require a more stringent penalty
• Selling a firearm to a minor is punishable by no less than 1 year in prison and up to a $5000 fine

Requirements:

Firing Handguns and Self Defense

In the state of Nevada, it is legal to keep a gun for the purpose of self-defense.  If property and family are in danger, the owner has the ability to protect life and limb from injury or death.  However, the rules change, if the gun is taken onto public property or in social situations.  Even with a permit to carry, the owner may not:

• Take the weapon onto school property
• Fire a weapon across public roads
• Take a firearm into a public building

Legal Help

For individuals facing gun charges in the state of Nevada, it is vital to employee the services of a professional attorney.  The laws regarding the purchase of a gun make it easy for a person(s) to buy a gun.  But, unlawful purchase or possession often means the loss of liberty and a stiff financial penalty.  Therefore, a lawyer is needed to present the case, and hopefully minimize the penalty, if convicted.  Among the charges, an attorney can assist a client in facing are:

• Possession of a weapon in the commission of a crime
• Possession of an illegal weapon
• Illegal discharge of a firearm