Minnesota Gun Possession Laws

Minneapolis criminal defense attorneys know it is not uncommon to have a client call about gun charges they are facing. Gun laws must be obeyed and there are very specific laws about who may not own or be in possession of a firearm. 

Both federal laws and Minnesota laws contain specific prohibitions on possession of a firearm and certain individuals may be denied a permit to carry or purchase a weapon .When these individuals are found in possession of a firearm, they can face serious criminal charges. Some of the common reasons for being denied rights under the Second Amendment include:

• Conviction or outstanding charges for violent crime
• Conviction resulting from domestic violence
• Users of illegal drugs are barred from possessing a weapon
• Illegal entry into the United States or renouncing U.S. citizenship
• Those who are dishonorably discharged from military service
• Those who have been found to be mentally disabled or ill

Three Year Look-Back Period

In addition to current circumstances, law enforcement officers are allowed to look back three years and you may be denied a permit and may face charges if you are in possession of weapon if any of the following apply:

• You have been found to be a user of illegal drugs
• You have or are currently undergoing chemical dependency treatment
• You have been found guilty of child neglect or endangerment or fourth degree burglary
• You have been found guilty of harassment, stalking or participating in a riot

These lists are not comprehensive but are some of the more common issues that could result in criminal gun possession charges.  Punishments for a violation of gun laws can be very serious and when you are facing these charges, you will need to seek the assistance of an attorney who understands the law and can help you defend against these charges.

Image credit: By lifesizepotato from San Antonio, TX (Delta AR Top Gun) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons