Being caught with a weapon on school property carries serious legal consequences. In Pittsburgh and across Pennsylvania, it is illegal to bring any weapon capable of causing harm onto school grounds, in school buildings, or on school transportation vehicles.
If you or your child is facing these charges, it is crucial to act quickly and contact an experienced Pittsburgh firearms lawyer. Call us today at (412) 281-2146 for a free consultation.
What Qualifies as a Weapon Under Pennsylvania Law
According to Title 18 § 912, the definition of a “weapon” that violates this state law includes (but is not limited to):
- Any type of knife;
- Cutting instruments;
- Cutting tools;
- Nun-chuck sticks;
- Firearms or personal defense weapons;
- Shotguns or pistols;
- Rifles;
- Other tools or instruments capable of inflicting serious bodily injury.
Possessing any of these items on school property can result in severe criminal penalties, making it critical to have a skilled attorney by your side.
Offense for Carrying a Weapon on School Property
An individual commits a misdemeanor of the first degree if they possess a weapon in the buildings of, on the grounds of, or in any conveyance (e.g. school buses or shuttles) providing transportation to or from any of the following institutions:
- Publicly funded elementary or secondary schools;
- Private elementary or secondary schools, licensed by the Department of Education;
- Elementary or secondary parochial schools.
If you are found guilty of this violation, you could receive a maximum sentence of five years in prison with a fine of up to $10,000.
Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances, such as using a weapon to threaten someone or bringing it onto property during school events, may increase the severity of the charges. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing a robust defense.
Defense for Carrying a Weapon on School Property
Facing a weapons charge on school property can be overwhelming, but there are several strategies that a skilled attorney can use to defend you. The proper defense depends on the circumstances of your case, including how the weapon was obtained, how it was used, and whether any legal exceptions apply.
Lawful Exceptions
§ 912 (c) states that if the weapon found “is possessed and used in conjunction with a lawful supervised school activity or course,” then it can be justifiably brought onto school property. If you possess the weapon for other lawful purposes, the court can also deem an exception in your case.
However, you will need a weapons attorney to draw out your defense if you were wrongly accused. Our knowledgeable attorneys can assist you in assembling the necessary paperwork and legal documents to support your exemption defense.
How a Weapons Attorney Can Help
A Pittsburgh weapons attorney can:
- Assess whether your possession qualifies for a lawful exception
- Help assemble necessary documentation to support your defense
- Challenge the evidence or procedural errors that could weaken the prosecution’s case
Even minor discrepancies in evidence or documentation can lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
Contact Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers
The attorneys at Worgul, Sarna & Ness will evaluate your case, explain your options, and develop a tailored defense strategy. Staying calm and contacting an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately is critical for protecting your rights and your family’s future.
Contact us today to protect your rights at (412) 281-2146 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
