Facing a weapons charge in Florida can turn your life upside down. Whether you were pulled over with a concealed weapon or accused of using a firearm in connection with another crime, the consequences are serious.
If you’re in Bradenton or Sarasota and have been charged with a weapons offense, you need a defense attorney who knows the law, the system, and how to protect your future. At McNary Law, we understand what’s at stake and stand ready to fight aggressively on your behalf.
Understanding Weapons Charges in Florida
Florida has some of the most detailed and serious laws surrounding weapons and firearms. These laws are designed not only to regulate ownership and possession but also to harshly penalize the unlawful use or carrying of weapons. Chapter 790 of the Florida Statutes governs many of these offenses.
Common types of weapons charges include:
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit
Improper exhibition of a firearm
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
Possession or discharge of a weapon on school property
Using a firearm during the commission of a felony
Illegal sale or transfer of firearms
Penalties for Weapons Offenses
The consequences of a weapons conviction vary widely depending on the circumstances but may include:
Misdemeanor penalties – Up to 1 year in jail and/or fines up to $1,000
Felony penalties – Up to 5, 15, or even 30 years in prison, depending on the degree of the offense and if minimum mandatory sentencing applies
Reclassification enhancements – Many crimes involving weapons can be elevated to more serious felony levels under Florida Statute § 775.087.
For example, brandishing a weapon in a threatening manner may lead to an aggravated assault charge—a third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison.
Florida’s 10-20-Life Law
Florida’s “10-20-Life” statute imposes mandatory minimum prison sentences for certain firearm-related crimes:
10 years for possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony
20 years for discharging a firearm
25 years to life if someone is seriously injured or killed as a result of the firearm’s use
This law removes discretion from judges and makes it all the more critical to have a skilled weapons charges attorney advocating for you from the start.
Defending Against Weapons Charges
At McNary Law, we tailor our defense strategies to the facts of your case. Some common defenses to weapons charges include:
Unlawful search and seizure – If the weapon was found during an illegal stop or search, it may be inadmissible.
Lack of knowledge – You must have knowingly possessed the weapon.
Lawful possession or permit – In some cases, you may have had the right to carry the weapon.
Stand Your Ground or self-defense – If the weapon was used to prevent imminent harm, this may serve as a complete defense.
Each case is different, and a personalized legal strategy can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissal.
The Impact of a Weapons Conviction
A conviction for a weapons charge can follow you long after fines are paid or time is served:
Loss of civil rights – Including the right to vote or own firearms
Permanent criminal record – Making employment and housing more difficult
Restraining orders or injunctions – Often tied to domestic violence-related weapons charges
Family law consequences – Such as losing custody or visitation rights
If you’re also facing domestic violence or assault charges, our firm can coordinate your defense across multiple legal areas.
Why Choose McNary Law?
Located in Bradenton and serving Sarasota and surrounding areas, McNary Law combines legal knowledge with compassionate representation. Our core values—honesty, accountability, and creative problem-solving—guide every case we take.
Weapons charges often overlap with our other areas of criminal defense. We regularly defend clients charged with:
As a family and criminal defense firm, we also understand how criminal accusations can affect parenting plans, divorce proceedings, or dependency cases.
Don’t Wait to Protect Your Rights
Weapons charges can escalate quickly, especially if you’re also facing accusations of violence or threats. Early legal intervention is key.
Click here to send us a message or call us today at 941-345-1662 to schedule a consultation. Let’s discuss your options and begin building your defense.
