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North Carolina is known to have some of the nation’s most stringent gun laws, and if you want to purchase a firearm, you will need a license. However, if you have moved to NC from out of state as a new resident, and are arrested for gun charges in North Carolina, this blog is for you. Yes, you can always contact a bail bondsman in Statesville, NCto help you get out of jail, but here is some information for you if you don’t want to complicate the process any further.

A Brief Overview

North Carolina has relatively permissive gun laws compared to other states but still maintains strict regulations. To legally possess a firearm in North Carolina, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns) or 21 for handguns.
  • Not have a felony conviction or certain domestic violence convictions.
  • Not be subject to a restraining order or have a history of mental illness.
  • Complete a background check when purchasing a handgun from a licensed dealer.

Common Gun Charges in NC

If you don’t meet any of the following criteria, or commit the following crimes, you might get arrested for the possession of an unauthorized firearm in NC:

  • Concealed Carry Violations: North Carolina requires a permit to carry a concealed handgun in public, and violating these regulations can lead to criminal charges.
  • Possession of a Firearm by a Felon: It is illegal for individuals convicted of felonies to possess firearms, and violating this law can result in critical penalties and jail time.
  • Carrying a Weapon on School Property: Firearms are prohibited on the premises of educational institutions in North Carolina, and if you are carrying any, you might get arrested.
  • Possession of a Stolen Firearm: Possessing a stolen firearm is a crime in NC, and it can lead to substantial penalties.

What Happens After You Are Arrested?

Upon arrest for gun-related charges, the law enforcement officers will take you into custody, where you will undergo the standard booking process, which includes fingerprinting and photographing. Depending on the nature of the charges and your criminal history, you may have a bail hearing; the judge will determine if you are eligible for bail and set the bail amount. If you are eligible, but don’t have enough funds for the bail amount, you can always opt for 24-hour bail bonds in Statesville, NCto help you post your bail for a mere 15% premium fee of the original bail amount. From there, you have to attend court appearances, where the prosecution will present evidence against you, and your attorney will defend your case.

Possible Outcomes

If the court doesn’t find enough evidence to convict you, you will be acquitted, and the charges will be dropped. However, in some cases, a plea bargain may be negotiated, resulting in reduced charges or a lesser sentence in exchange for a guilty plea when the criminal isn’t convicted.

Conclusion

Firearm possession and use are strictly regulated in the United States, with each state having its own laws governing gun ownership and usage, and North Carolina is no exception. Need help getting out of jail after you are arrested for firearm possession? Contact a licensed bail bondsman in Statesville, NC with Statesville Bail Bonds.