Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm
Under Florida law, it is illegal to discharge a firearm in a public place, with very few exceptions. Unless used by a peace officer, for self-defense situations in which lethal force is justified, or in certain areas approved for hunting, firing a gun in a public place is a criminal offense. The purpose of this law is to decrease the risk that firearms will be abused and used unnecessarily.
If you have been charged with unlawful discharge of a firearm, you are likely facing severe penalties that could affect the rest of your life. The West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyers of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. are prepared to help you defend your case and will fight to protect your legal rights.
Violations and Penalties
If you violate the law against discharging a firearm in a public place, you may be arrested and/or charged with a criminal offense. Some violations that may lead to an unlawful discharge arrest include:
- Knowingly firing a gun from a moving vehicle: 3rd degree felony charge
- Knowingly firing a gun within 1000 feet of another person: 2nd degree felony charge
- Knowingly firing a gun while committing a felony: Mandatory 20 year prison sentence
Clearly even a single unlawful discharge offense can have lasting repercussions that may haunt you for the rest of your life. Not only will you be listed as a felon, but you will face many years in prison, heavy fines, and other restrictions on your freedoms. If you have been arrested for the unlawful discharge of a firearm, consider consulting with a criminal defense attorney immediately to begin preparing your defense for court.
Contact Us
For sound legal advice and assistance with your firearms charges and legal defense, don’t hesitate to contact the West Palm Beach criminal attorneys of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. today at 561-353-2800.
