Gun laws in Florida allow residents to carry firearms in their vehicles without a license. For many, this is great news. However, there are a few rules you must follow when transporting firearms in Orlando, and some of them can be confusing. To protect yourself, you must fully understand these laws before getting into a vehicle with any weapon.
The seasoned gun defense attorneys at The Umansky Law Firm can help if you are arrested for carrying a gun illegally and charged with a law violation.
State law authorized individuals to carry concealed weapons or firearms as of July 1, 2023. Florida Statutes § 790.25 states that it is lawful for people to have a firearm for self-defense in their vehicle.
This means that Orlando residents, if not otherwise prohibited, can carry a gun, loaded or unloaded, in their vehicle. However, it is essential to note that concealed carry means the weapon or firearm is encased or not readily accessible for immediate use. This is very important. Encased means it must be in a glove compartment, holster, trunk, or gun case so that you cannot just grab it. Otherwise, it becomes an open carry weapon, and this is not allowed in the state of Florida.
“Open carry” or having a firearm in the passenger seat is still unlawful if the person does not meet specific criteria. For instance, to open carry, individuals must be:
The 2011 Florida Statutes Chapter 790 Weapons and Firearms provides more information about what is allowed in Orlando and to whom it applies, especially regarding open carry laws versus concealed carry.
When visiting Orlando’s theme parks, visitors to this beautiful area may have questions about firearms. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, tourists can carry a concealed weapon if they:
When traveling to Orlando, visitors may want to contact law officials to ensure they meet the requirements if they are unsure. It is also advisable to avoid taking weapons into area theme parks because they are not allowed. Disney World, for instance, checks all bags and bodies and clearly states that firearms, ammunition, knives, and other perceived weapons are prohibited.
Orlando residents traveling to other states within the United States are subject to federal law, Section 18 USC 926A. This law states that if it is legal to possess a weapon in their state of residence, they can legally travel with firearms. Therefore, if allowed to conceal carry in Florida, residents should not be breaking the law to travel out of state.
However, it is advised that residents traveling out of state speak to legal authorities to learn their state’s rules. This protects them from legal troubles if they plan to stay in another state for a while on vacation for work or pleasure.
If you were in possession of a firearm or other “weapon” and feel that you were unjustly arrested, a criminal defense lawyer will be the best way to help yourself. The Umansky Law Firm handles all charges of transporting firearms in Orlando. We will happily review your case to see if you were wrongly accused and then fight to help you get the charges dropped if we feel you have a case.
Contact us today to request a free consultation. We look forward to helping you understand your rights in traveling with a firearm or other weapons.
The Umansky Law Firm Criminal Defense & Injury Attorneys
