Possession of a Firearm at a Florida Airport
In Florida, possessing a firearm at an airport can lead to dire legal consequences. If you are charged with firearm possession at a Florida airport like Orlando International, consult with an experienced gun defense attorney immediately.
Depending on the circumstances, charges can range from misdemeanor to felony, potentially including jail time, fines, and loss of firearm rights. Misdemeanor charges are possible if you have a concealed carry permit, while felony charges are likely without one.
Charges for Possession of a Firearm at an Airport
Bringing a firearm into a Florida airport terminal or sterile area, even with a concealed carry permit, is illegal under both state and federal law. Federal law takes precedence, meaning even if you have a concealed carry permit, you cannot bring a firearm into the airport.
This means that possession of a firearm at a Florida airport, including beyond the TSA security checkpoint, is a crime. Depending on the circumstances and whether you have a concealed carry permit, you could face numerous charges under Florida law, such as carrying a concealed firearm without a license, or carrying a concealed firearm in a restricted area.
Even if you accidentally bring a firearm to the airport, you could still face criminal charges. If you have a concealed carry permit and are found in a restricted area, you could be charged with a misdemeanor. If you are carrying a concealed firearm without a license, or if aggravating factors exist, you could face felony charges.
In some cases, bringing a firearm to a TSA checkpoint can lead to federal charges, which can carry more severe penalties than state offenses. These charges can include illegal possession of firearms, which can result in fines, imprisonment, and other legal consequences.
Understanding the Potential Legal Consequences
If you have a concealed carry permit and are caught with a firearm in a restricted area, you may face a second-degree misdemeanor charge, which could result in up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. If you are caught carrying a concealed weapon (other than a firearm) without a permit, you could face a first-degree misdemeanor, potentially leading to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Otherwise, carrying a concealed firearm without a license is a third-degree felony in Florida, punishable by up to five years in prison, five years of probation, and/or a $5,000 fine. Depending on the charges and the severity of the penalty, you could face a loss of your concealed carry permit, permanent loss of firearm rights, and other legal consequences.
The TSA can impose civil penalties on individuals who violate their rules, which can be substantial, even if the firearm is unloaded or not loaded. These fines can range in the thousands of dollars depending on the specific circumstances and the type of weapon, ranging from $2,050 to $10,250 depending on the firearm’s status (loaded or unloaded).
Federal law also prohibits carrying weapons, including firearms, into secure areas of an airport or onto an aircraft. Violations can lead to criminal charges, potentially resulting in imprisonment for up to 10 years and fines of up to $14,950.
Secure the Legal Representation When Possessing a Firearm at a Florida Airport
A criminal defense attorney can significantly help someone facing firearms charges at a Florida airport by investigating the facts, challenging the prosecution’s case, and negotiating for a reduced sentence or dismissal. An attorney can also navigate the legal process and advocate for the client’s rights.
A lawyer will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review the police report and any relevant documentation to determine the circumstances of the incident and identify the best defenses. Contact The Umansky Law Firm today to speak with a defense attorney about your case in a one-on-one legal consultation.
