Florida’s gun laws regulate firearm possession, carry, and use throughout the state, and violations carry serious criminal consequences, including felony charges, prison time, and permanent loss of gun rights. Whether you are facing charges for illegal possession, carrying without a permit, improper use, or violations of prohibited person restrictions related to gun laws in Key West, you need experienced legal representation to defend your rights.
At Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC, our dedicated gun defense attorneys understand the state’s complex firearms statutes and provide aggressive representation, protecting your Second Amendment rights while fighting to minimize consequences and preserve your freedom. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.
Key West follows the state’s gun laws, which govern firearm possession, carry, and use for all residents. Florida is a “shall issue” state, meaning adults 21 and older who meet requirements can obtain concealed weapon licenses, allowing them to carry concealed firearms in most public places.
Open carry is generally prohibited except while hunting, fishing, camping, or target shooting. No permit is required to purchase firearms, and there is no mandatory waiting period for those with concealed carry permits, though non-permit holders face a three-day waiting period for handgun purchases.
Florida has no firearms registration requirement, and background checks are required for purchases from licensed dealers but not private sales. Stand Your Ground laws allow using deadly force when reasonably believing it is necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm, with no duty to retreat.
Prohibited locations include schools, courthouses, airports, government buildings, and private properties posting prohibition notices. Convicted felons, domestic violence offenders, and individuals adjudicated mentally incompetent cannot possess firearms under state and federal law.
Gun law violations in Key West carry serious criminal penalties under state statutes. Illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Under Florida’s 10-20-Life law, using a firearm during certain felonies can trigger mandatory minimum sentences.
Carrying a concealed firearm without a permit is a third-degree felony with up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines. Improper exhibition or brandishing is a first-degree misdemeanor with up to one year in jail.
Possessing firearms in prohibited locations such as schools, courthouses, or airports can lead to felony charges. Federal gun charges can add up to 10 years in prison. Convictions can also cause permanent loss of gun rights and major employment consequences.
Your gun law attorney in Key West can review the facts and circumstances of your case to determine whether you have any valid defenses to the charges against you. Possible defenses may include:
If your charge involves the use or display of a firearm, lawful self-defense may apply if the force was reasonable and justified. Our results-driven attorneys focus on analyzing the facts of your case to craft a defense that fits your situation and protects your freedom.
There is no such thing as a “routine” criminal charge involving guns. If you have been charged with any gun crime, you need skilled legal representation from a gun defense lawyer who can work for the best possible outcome in your case. Do not wait to get the legal help that you need.
If you have questions about gun laws in Key West, contact a strategic attorney at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC for a confidential consultation, where you can learn about your legal options.
