The right to keep and bear arms is guaranteed in the United States Constitution. At the same time, gun-related state and local laws in America vary considerably from one location to another. If you are facing a gun-related charge, you should speak to a Loveland gun lawyer who can help you understand the charges and can help you build a defense. Justie and Jenn know what it takes to fight a gun charge. Reach out to a knowledgeable criminal attorney to discuss your legal rights and options.
Possession Offenses under Colorado State Law
Under state law, per §18-12 of the Colorado Revised Statutes carrying a firearm concealed on one’s person constitutes a class 2 misdemeanor, with only limited exceptions. The previous law in Colorado that sanctioned permits to carry concealed weapons was repealed, but an exception to the law exists for a person who was issued such a permit prior to the appeal. According to C.R.S. § 18-12-209, a temporary emergency permit to carry a concealed handgun may be issued by a sheriff who determines the applicant to be in immediate danger.
Under C.R.S. § 18-12, it is a class 5 felony to knowingly possess a dangerous weapon, a category that includes silencers, machine guns, short shotguns, and short rifles. It is a class 1 misdemeanor to knowingly possess an illegal weapon, a category that includes gas guns. It is also unlawful to possess any firearm with a defaced or destroyed serial number. Likewise, if you’ve been previously convicted of a felony—even a deferred sentence successfully completed—you may be guilty of possession of a weapon by a previous offender if caught with a gun in your possession or control.
