Shuttleworth Law P.C.

Shuttleworth Law P.C.

Call 888-529-3486
For a Free Case Evaluation

  • Home
  • Practice Areas
    • Criminal Defense
      • Assault & Domestic Violence
      • Burglary, Robbery & Theft
      • Computer Crimes
      • Criminal Appeals
      • Criminal Investigations
      • Drug Crimes
      • DUI Defense
      • Expungements
      • Gun Crimes Defense
      • Homicide, Manslaughter, & Murder
      • Sex Crimes
      • Violent Crimes Defense
      • White-collar Crimes
    • Personal Injury
      • Bicycle Accidents
      • Car Accidents
      • Construction Accident
      • Medical Malpractice
      • Motorcycle Accidents
      • Pedestrian Accidents
      • Premises Liability
      • Wrongful Death
    • Protection From Abuse (PFA)
      • PFA Defense
      • PFAs for Victims
    • Strike 3 Holdings Defense
  • About Us
    • Brad V. Shuttleworth
    • Recent Case Results
    • Testimonials
  • Blog
  • Resources
    • Shuttleworth Law P.C. Client Portal
    • FAQs
  • Contact Us Now

What Is the Penalty for Carrying a Gun Without a Permit in Pennsylvania?

Published on Aug 22, 2022

The penalty for carrying a concealed gun without a permit in Pennsylvania depends upon whether you face a third-degree felony or first-degree misdemeanor. A third-degree felony conviction could result in up to seven years imprisonment and $15,000 in fines, while a first-degree misdemeanor carries up to five years imprisonment and $10,000 in fines.

However, a convicted person could face additional consequences in the future, such as missing out on jobs, not being able to rent an apartment, or losing their right to own a firearm. Get legal advice from a criminal defense attorney in Pennsylvania if you or a loved one face Firearms Not to Be Carried Without a License charges.

In This Article

Philadelphia gun crimes defense attorney, Brad V. Shuttleworth, Esq., discusses how Firearms Not to Be Carried Without a License charges work, associated penalties if convicted, and the defensibility of firearms charges. Shuttleworth Law P.C. wrote this article for individuals facing these types of charges.

What Are Firearms Not to Be Carried Without a License Charges?

Pennsylvania statutes prohibit the possession of firearms by specific persons without a license, either as a concealed carry weapon or as transport, under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6106. Without a proper license, it is illegal to transport or conceal a handgun, outside of your home or place of business.

The Commonwealth will charge the crime as either a felony misdemeanor, described in more detail below:

  • Third-degree felony: Carrying a Weapon Without a License when you are ineligible to apply for a license to carry
  • First-degree misdemeanor: Carrying a Weapon Without a License when you are eligible to apply for a license to carry

What makes someone ineligible to obtain a license to carry a firearm? A person can be ineligible for quite a few reasons, such as: being under 21 years of age, having been convicted of certain crimes, or not being of sound mind or having been committed to a mental institution.

This type of crime violates the Uniform Firearms Act, also known as a “VUFA.” VUFAs, in general, are weapons or gun-related crimes. Commonwealth statutes determine the outcome of VUFA charges, including Firearms Not to Be Carried Without a License.

Related Article: What Is a Violation of the Uniform Firearms Act (VUFA)?

What Are the Penalties for Carrying a Gun Without a PA Permit?

One charge is more severe than the other when facing this type of VUFA. A felony will result in a more significant loss of your rights. However, a misdemeanor conviction can negatively impact the short- and long-term future.

Below, we have outlined the penalties related to each type of grading if convicted of a Firearms Not to Be Carried Without a License crime:

Third-Degree Felony

A third-degree felony charge could result in up to seven years imprisonment and $15,000 in fines. The Commonwealth sets this maximum penalty per 18 Pa.C.S. § 1103. You could face a third-degree felony if you were transporting via a motor vehicle or carrying a concealed firearm, such as a rifle, gun, or pistol, and you are not legally eligible to receive a license if you were to apply for one hypothetically.

Related Article: What is a Felony in Pennsylvania?

First-Degree Misdemeanor

A first-degree misdemeanor results in a maximum prison sentence of not more than five years and fines that do not exceed $10,000. It is the most serious of misdemeanor charges, and the Commonwealth sets this maximum penalty per 18 Pa.C.S. § 1104. You could face a first-degree misdemeanor if you were transporting via a motor vehicle or carrying a concealed firearm, and you are legally eligible to get a license if you were to apply for one hypothetically.

Related Article: What Is a Misdemeanor in Pennsylvania?

Non-Statutory Penalties

Regardless of your crime’s grading, you will have a criminal record to face in the future if convicted. These non-statutory, collateral damage penalties can result in a loss of child custody, firearms, housing, and employment rights. Ensure you speak with a gun crimes defense attorney in PA to help you or your loved one mount a legal defense that seeks to protect you from criminal and non-statutory consequences.

Are Gun Crimes Charges in PA Defensible?

Yes, you can defend against gun crime charges in Pennsylvania. Work with a gun crimes defense attorney in Pennsylvania to investigate your charges, preserve evidence, and protect your legal rights. However, every case is unique, and the defense you select for your case will impact the outcome.

Common defenses to gun crimes charges like this in PA include:

  • Unconstitutional search or seizure by police
  • Civil rights violations
  • Insufficient evidence
  • Gun was not concealed
  • Lack of constructive possession
  • Case of mistaken identity
  • Did not meet the legal definition of a firearm
  • Other appropriate legal defenses

While the above-referenced list showcases examples of defenses, you do not know what your options are until you hire a lawyer. We can determine what evidence prosecutors have against you if it is possible to get your charges dropped or reduced, and how to mitigate damage to your life and reputation. Start by meeting with an attorney during a free case evaluation to find out if legal representation is right for your case.

Try to Mitigate the Penalty of Carrying a Gun Without a Permit in Pennsylvania

Shuttleworth Law P.C. welcomes accused people or their loved ones to contact us for a free case evaluation. It is your opportunity to speak with a Philadelphia gun crimes attorney about your situation and gather our feedback on your next steps. Past and current clients find this meeting extremely helpful in evaluating their situation and how we could help them fight back against false or unproven accusations.

Call Shuttleworth Law P.C. for My Free Case Evaluation Now

Call Shuttleworth Law P.C. for your Free Case Evaluation at 888-529-3486 or message us online. We can also arrange for a secure video conference or meet at your preferred location if you are unable to travel to our office.

Criminal Defense, Felonies, Gun Charges, Misdemeanors

Categories

  • Civil Rights (3)
  • Criminal Defense (180)
    • Appeals (1)
    • Arrests (4)
    • Assault (2)
    • Burglary (2)
    • Child Abuse (1)
    • Computer Crimes (7)
    • Conspiracy (2)
    • Contempt (3)
    • Corruption (2)
    • Criminal Law Courts (21)
    • Domestic Violence (4)
    • Drug Charges (4)
    • DUI (5)
    • Evidence (4)
    • Expungements & Pardons (3)
    • Felonies (7)
    • Forgery (3)
    • Gun Charges (18)
    • Homicide (7)
    • Insurance Fraud (3)
    • Manslaughter (4)
    • Misdemeanors (2)
    • Murder (1)
    • Pleas (1)
    • Police Conduct (9)
    • Prisons & Jails (11)
    • Probation and Parole (4)
    • Property Crime (1)
    • Rape (1)
    • Robbery (4)
    • Search & Seizure (31)
    • Sentencing (18)
    • Sex Crimes (6)
    • Traffic Stops (5)
    • Violent Crime (4)
    • Warrants (4)
    • Weapons (5)
    • White-Collar Crimes (2)
    • Wire Fraud (1)
  • Federal Indictments (1)
  • General Legal News (17)
  • Law Firm News (8)
  • Legislation (6)
  • Personal Injury (5)
    • Car Accidents (1)
    • Fault (1)
    • Pedestrian Accidents (1)
    • Statute of Limitations (1)
    • Wrongful Death (1)
  • Protection From Abuse (PFA) (7)
    • PFA Defense (5)
  • Restraining Order (1)
  • Statutes of LImitation (1)
  • Strike 3 Holdings (8)
  • Uncategorized (2)

Placeholder. Do not Delete.

google
Wentao Lu 2 weeks ago
Very satisfied by the service provided by Shuttleworth! Before the commitment, Mr. Brad Shuttleworth had a detailed zoom meeting free of charge on my case which made is super easy for me to trust him. He gave me thorough instructions how to prepare the case on my end and settled my case very quickly, much better than what I expected. I will definitely ask him for help in the future if I need his legal service again and strongly recommend to anyone I know.
...
google
Mike Seansy 2 weeks ago
I highly recommend Shuttleworth Law. Brad was incredibly professional and kept me informed every step of the way. He went above and beyond to make sure everything was handled smoothly. I truly appreciate his dedication and expertise. You won’t be disappointed!
...
google
Josh “Jay” Delgado 3 weeks ago
I couldn’t be more grateful for the exceptional legal support I receive, Brad is always professional, responsive, and truly has my companies best interests at heart every step of the way. His knowledge, attention to detail, and dedication makes every stressful situation so much easier to manage. Communication is always clear and timely, and I feel confident knowing we have someone so capable in my companies corner. I highly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney.
...
google
H Wai 1 month ago
Being caught up in a lawsuit was a nightmare, I was glad that I found Brad during this disturbing time. I had talked to a few attorneys about my case, Brad was the one who could give me trustworthy and honest advice. He is patience, experienced and professional. I would recommend him to anyone who needs an honest attorney.
...
google
Jamie Wiebrand 2 months ago
Brad helped me through a difficult situation. I'm not sure where we would have been without him.
...
google
Greg Hake 2 months ago
I was very pleased with Brad, he went out of his way to settle for me.
...
google
Julie Brown 2 months ago
If you have question or need help for yourself or a family member Brad is very helpful. He will guide you through each step of the process. He was quick to respond to additional questions. He will ensure you get the best outcome.
...
google
Zach Parnell 3 months ago
I highly recommend working with Brad and his team.
...
google
Marty Kassowitz 3 months ago
I was both impressed and comforted by Brad's very professional handling of an upsetting legal situation. His care and attention were flawless and appreciated.
...

Shuttleworth Law, P.C.
New Jersey Office:
1040 Mantua Pike
Wenonah NJ 08090
856-681-0185

Pennsylvania Office:
By appointment only

Call 888-529-3486
Available 24/7 for emergencies

Business Hours
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
TikTok
X (Formerly Twitter)

This website is for informational purposes only. Information presented isn’t legal advice and doesn’t form attorney-client relationships. Past results aren’t indicative of future results as all cases are unique. Laws affect each situation differently.

Copyright © 2005-2025 Brad V. Shuttleworth, Esq., Shuttleworth Law P.C. | Privacy Policy