Legal Alternatives to Firearm Ownership as a Felon in North Carolina

As many felons are undoubtedly aware, it is illegal for them to own firearms. Although this can be frustrating for those who wish to exercise their Second Amendment rights, various legal alternatives could help felons enjoy the same basic benefits of firearm ownership. If you face legal consequences for illegal firearm ownership as a felon, consider speaking with a North Carolina firearms offense lawyer as soon as possible.

Are Antique Firearms Legal for Felons to Own in North Carolina?

Yes, it may be legal for you to own certain antique firearms even if you have a felony conviction on your record. This is one of the most overlooked loopholes, and it allows you to own a “firearm” while still steering clear of legal penalties.

However, you must be very careful to obtain a firearm that fits into the exact legal definition of an “antique” under federal law. Generally speaking, all firearms manufactured before 1898 qualify as antiques in this context. In addition, all black powder guns should qualify as antiques, making them legal to own and use if you are a felon.

Speak with a lawyer if you’re not sure whether a firearm is classified as an antique. Examples include muzzle-loading rifles. You can also use a replica of a firearm manufactured before 1898, even if it wasn’t actually constructed before 1898.

Tasers and Projectile Launchers

Tasers and projectile launchers generally fall into legal “gray areas” and may lead to legal consequences for felons. It makes sense to discuss your unique situation with a lawyer if you plan to purchase one of these devices. Do not simply trust the marketing campaigns of companies that sell these devices, as this should never be taken as legal advice.

Crossbows and Bows

Crossbows and bows may also represent legal alternatives for felons in North Carolina. However, this is once again something of a gray area in certain situations. For example, you might need to refer back to any specific wording in your probation that prohibits “weapons” in general rather than firearms in particular. Consider speaking with a lawyer before acquiring a crossbow or bow.

Knives and Swords 

Knives and swords should be legal in North Carolina, even for felons. That being said, certain types of knives may be illegal, including “switchblades” or “butterfly knives.” Speak with a lawyer to determine which knives are legal in North Carolina. Concealed carry of knives may also be illegal, depending on the type of knife.

Can a North Carolina Firearm Offense Lawyer Help Me? 

If you face legal charges for owning, possessing, or purchasing a firearm as a felon, you might want to speak with a firearms offense lawyer in North Carolina. You might also want to speak with a lawyer if you face legal consequences for using another type of weapon in an alleged crime. This might be a knife, an antique firearm, a taser, a crossbow, or a projectile launcher of some kind. Speak with The Pritchard Firm today for further guidance.

Source:

 ncleg.net/enactedlegislation/statutes/html/bysection/chapter_14/gs_14-415.1.html