Connecticut Concealed Weapon Charges

The Connecticut State Police may issue a concealed weapons permit to residents if they successfully pass a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) which is the federal database used by the FBI. A Connecticut concealed weapons permit is valid for five years. Handgun owners are required to obtain a permit to purchase a firearm, but no permit is required to own a rifle or shotgun.

Who is Eligible for Concealed Carry Permit?

The State of Connecticut may issue a permit to applicants that meet the following criteria:

• Are at least 21 years of age or older
• Legally resides in the United States
• Currently has a business or residence in the jurisdiction where they are applying
• Intends to use the weapon for lawful purposes only
• Has not been convicted of a felony crime or one of 11 misdemeanor crimes outlined in the state statute
• Not convicted as a delinquent for a serious juvenile offense
• Has not been discharged from a mental health facility within the preceding 20 years after they were found not guilty of a crime by reason of mental defect or disease
• Does not have psychiatric disabilities or was confined to a mental institution within the preceding 12 months
• Does not currently have a protective or restraining order against them

All applicants must complete a handgun safety course before a permit will be issued.

Connecticut Concealed Weapons Violations

Individuals with a valid concealed carry permit should keep their weapons hidden at all times. Others that see someone carrying a firearm might call the cops and they could wind up being charged with disturbing the peace or reckless endangerment. Listed below are the current concealed weapons violations in the State of Connecticut:

It is not illegal to carry a concealed weapon into an establishment that serves alcohol, but strongly discouraged by state officials. However, anyone that is carrying a concealed weapon legally cannot do so if they are intoxicated at the time.

How Should You Plead?

A criminal defendant has the right to plead guilty to a crime but should only do so if they are offered a deal. Prosecutors may allow the individual to plead guilty to a crime that carries a lower penalty. For example, if they are charged with a Class D felony offense, they may be able to plead to a Class A misdemeanor instead. Keep in mind that the prosecution is tasked with proving the defendant is guilty of the crime they are charged with.

Help From a Connecticut Criminal Defense Attorney

Being charged with any type of criminal offense can be frightening for people unfamiliar with the justice system. Individuals who have a concealed weapons permit may be charged with a misdemeanor if someone sees the weapon and creates a panic situation. Therefore, those with a permit should keep their weapon concealed at all times or risk being hauled down to county jail. If you have been arrested, contact a Connecticut criminal defense lawyer for immediate help.