Phoenix DUI Lawyer Blog

Concealed Weapons - Arizona Criminal Defense Attorney

Gun Laws are very controversial and can be subject to change in Arizona. On April 16, 2010, Gov. Jan Brewer signed Senate Bill 1108 passing the Arizona State law which gives Arizonans the constitutional right to bear concealed weapons, without a permit. This makes Arizona the third state (following Alaska and Vermont) allowing people to carry concealed weapons without the requirement of a permit. The measure takes effect 90 days after the current legislative session ends, which makes the law go into effect sometime in August, 2010.

Until then, if you are charged with carrying a concealed weapon or hidden firearm without a permit is a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail with a fine of up to $2,500. So if you are charged carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, or violation of any other gun laws in Arizona, you should consult an Arizona Criminal Defense Attorney experienced in defending charges related to gun laws.

Arizonans have been free to carry firearms openly since it earned it's statehood in 1912. But Arizona is extremely strict concerning what it considers to be misuse of gun laws. With regard to firearms used as part of a criminal offense, legislation was changed which makes the laws tougher. New language was added to make concealed weapons used while in the process of committing a crime in Arizona a felony. Formerly, that offense was a misdemeanor.