We have been granted the right to bear arms from the United States Constitution. In Cape May County, these rights are taken extremely seriously, as the county has designated itself a Second Amendment Sanctuary. However, in order to properly exercise this right, we must abide by laws set forth by the state. New Jersey laws that govern how, where, and when we are able to carry guns and other weapons. A conviction for violating one of these laws can include high fines, long prison sentences, and the loss of rights, such as the right to vote and our right to bear arms.
Gun law in New Jersey can be complicated. Misinterpretation of regulations can result in criminal charges. An experienced lawyer can fight to prevent a mistake from turning into a conviction. If you are facing weapons charges in Cape May County, experienced defense attorney Joseph D. Lento is ready to fight on your behalf.
Cape May County Guns & Weapons Crimes
The crimes (and resulting penalties) related to firearms and weapons can range from minor to severe. The circumstances of your case, your prior criminal record (or lack thereof), and many other factors come into play when a potential firearms sentence is determined. Some weapons offenses commonly seen in Cape May County include:
Possessing a Weapon for Criminal Purposes (2C:39-4)
Any individual discovered to possess a firearm, explosives, or destructive devices for illegal conduct will be charged with an offense of the second-degree. Any person who possesses a “community gun”, a gun used by multiple individuals to commit criminal acts will face offenses of the second-degree. This will carry a minimum of a three-year prison sentence.
Possession or Transportation of Firearms
New Jersey prohibits the possession or transport of a shotgun or rifle unless you have a valid firearms purchaser identification card (FPIC). In order to legally transport or possess a handgun, a valid New Jersey handgun permit is required.
Any individual in possession of a firearm who is simply passing through New Jersey must do so while following federal law, namely 18 U.S. Code § 926A. This law requires that the firearm is unloaded and is not “readily accessible” from the passenger area of the vehicle.
Possessing a Weapon Where Prohibited
Weapons all kinds are prohibited on the property of:
- educational locations such as schools and universities (including Atlantic Cape Community College)
- all casino facilities and includes the casino security staff unless permission is obtained from the State Police.
State Regulations on Gun Ownership
While Cape May has vigorously sought to protect gun owners, there are still some state laws that can affect where one can legally have a firearm or other weapon. These include:
Possession or Transportation of Firearms
New Jersey prohibits the possession or transport of a shotgun or rifle unless you have a valid firearms purchaser identification card (FPIC). In order to legally transport or possess a handgun, a valid New Jersey handgun permit is required.
Any individual in possession of a firearm who is simply passing through New Jersey must do so while following federal law, namely 18 U.S. Code § 926A. This law requires that the firearm is unloaded and is not “readily accessible” from the passenger area of the vehicle.
Possessing a Weapon Where Prohibited
Weapons all kinds (even for those possessing a permit) are prohibited on the property of:
- educational locations such as schools and universities (Cape May County is home to many public and private schools, as well as Cape May Community College)
- all casino facilities and includes the casino security staff unless permission is obtained from the State Police.
Cape May County Weapons and Firearms Defense Lawyer
Don't let a conviction endanger your Second Amendment rights.
An experienced criminal defense attorney knows where potential weak points are. To learn how the Lento Law Firm can help you fight a gun charge, call (888) 535-3686 today.
