Defending Against Concealed Weapon Charges in Pennsylvania
Charged with carrying a concealed firearm? You have legal options. Being arrested for carrying a concealed weapon in Pennsylvania can lead to serious consequences, especially if you didn’t realize you were breaking the law or believed you had the right to carry. Whether you’re facing a misunderstanding or a mistake in judgment, it’s essential to understand what you’re up against—and how to protect your rights moving forward.
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, our experienced gun lawyers & weapon attorneys know how Pennsylvania treats gun-related offenses. We’ll help you navigate the legal process, explore defenses, and fight to avoid harsh penalties.
What is Considered a Concealed Weapon in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, it is illegal to carry a concealed firearm on your person or in a vehicle without a valid License to Carry Firearms (LTCF). A concealed weapon generally means a firearm that is not visible to others, typically carried in a bag, waistband, glove compartment, or beneath clothing.
Even if you lawfully own the weapon, you can still be charged if you’re carrying it without the proper license, especially in public spaces or during traffic stops.
Pennsylvania Laws on Carrying Concealed Firearms
Carrying a concealed weapon without a license violates 18 Pa. C.S. § 6106, which makes it a third-degree felony punishable by:
- Up to 7 years in prison
- Fines up to $15,000
- Permanent criminal record
- Potential loss of firearm rights
If you have a prior criminal record, especially a felony, or if the firearm was used in connection with another alleged offense, the penalties can be even more severe.
Common Scenarios That Lead to Concealed Weapon Charges
You don’t have to commit another crime to face a concealed weapon charge. In fact, many charges arise from otherwise routine interactions, such as:
- Traffic stops where a firearm is found in a glove box or under a seat
- Walking in public with a concealed firearm without a license
- Carrying a firearm across county lines without understanding permit restrictions
- Concealing a weapon in a purse or backpack without proper documentation
Many people charged with this offense don’t have criminal intentions, but that doesn’t mean prosecutors will be easy on them.
Possible Defenses to Concealed Weapon Charges
Every case is different, and your defense will depend on the specific facts involved. Some of the most effective legal strategies we use include:
You Had a Valid License
If you had a valid LTCF but were unable to present it at the time, we may be able to get the charge reduced or dismissed.
Lack of Intent
We may argue that you were unaware the firearm was in your possession—for example, if it belonged to someone else or was left in a shared vehicle.
Illegal Search and Seizure
If law enforcement found the weapon through an unlawful stop or search, any evidence may be inadmissible, which could result in your case being thrown out.
Mistaken Identity or Misunderstanding
In some cases, law enforcement may wrongfully charge someone based on flawed assumptions or incomplete information.
What to Do If You’re Charged with Carrying a Concealed Weapon
Facing a firearm charge can feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to protect your freedom and future.
Don’t Speak Without a Lawyer
You might think explaining your side will help, but anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and request an attorney.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer Immediately
An experienced attorney can assess your case, protect your rights, and begin building a strong defense. At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we understand how to challenge the prosecution and negotiate favorable outcomes.
Avoid Posting Online or Discussing the Case
Social media and casual conversations can unintentionally hurt your case. Let your lawyer do the talking and focus on cooperating with your legal team.
Why These Charges Should Be Taken Seriously
A conviction for carrying a concealed weapon can follow you for life, affecting employment, housing, education, and more. It can also impact your right to own or carry firearms in the future.
The sooner you involve a lawyer, the better your chances of resolving the matter without long-term consequences. We’ve often helped clients avoid jail time, keep their records clean, or reduce charges through strategic legal action.
Get Help from a Pennsylvania Firearm Defense Lawyer
If you’ve been charged with carrying a concealed weapon in Pennsylvania, don’t wait to get legal help. At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we bring deep experience in defending firearm cases and fighting for the best possible outcome.
Call us at (412) 281-2146 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. We’ll explain your options and aggressively protect your rights from day one.
What Our Clients Say About Our Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyers
Read what John had to say about us on Avvo:
“I lost my license 20 years ago and never thought I would ever get it back they told me I had to come back to Pittsburgh and do 9 months in jail if I wanted to even think about getting my license so I got a hold call Samir and he took care of my case better than I ever thought anyone could and now after 20 years of having no license I finally got it back and it only took them 5 months I had six out-of-state warrants and I walked away from this clean so I want to give a huge thank you to Michael and Samir and the secretary they were so nice to me and help me with every possible problem I had so if you’re looking for an attorney I wouldn’t look any further”
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐