While the Second Amendment of the Constitution guarantees the right to bear arms, contradictory court rulings often make it seem that it does not. It is a right that is badly interpreted and often poorly administered with confusing state and local rules and regs. Numerous Minnesotans have faced weapons charges due to misleading rules, false allegations, and unreasonable searches. And if you’ve been charged with a weapons offense, you could be facing severe penalties including a prison sentence, steep fines, and loss of gun rights.
It’s crucial to defend yourself with the help of an experienced firearms defense lawyer. Attorney Jeff Dean is one of the most trusted criminal defense lawyers based in Minneapolis, with a 26-year track record of case dismissals, Not Guilty verdicts, and conviction reversals, both in state and federal courts. Get in touch with Jeff Dean if you’ve been accused of a gun crime or weapons violation. Call (612) 805-6916 today.
Weapons Charges in Minnesota
Minnesota is said to be a relatively lax state when it comes to gun laws, yet many citizens here still find themselves facing harsh prosecution for weapons-related offenses. These are some of the most common firearms charges in Minnesota:
- Unlawful possession of firearm
- Carrying a firearm without permit
- Unlicensed firearm
- Possession of automatic firearm
- Carrying a firearm while under the influence
- Reckless handling of firearm
- Negligent storage of a dangerous weapon
- Possession of firearm by a felon
- Furnishing a gun to a minor
- Unlawful sale of a firearm
- Criminal offense enhanced by a firearm
- Assault with a dangerous weapon.
Many of these gun-related offenses are felonies, potentially punishable with at least a year of jail time and thousands of dollars in fines. But even a misdemeanor gun conviction in Minnesota can result in 90 days in jail, $1,000 fine, or both. Conviction could also mean a permanent criminal record and losing your right to own or carry firearms.
As soon as you get accused of a weapons offense in Minnesota, contact Attorney Jeff Dean. Prompt legal representation gives you a better chance to protect yourself from prosecution.
When Is It Illegal to Own or Carry a Gun in Minnesota?
Most Minnesotans may own handguns, long guns (like shotguns and rifles), and assault-style weapons. The following people, however, cannot legally own or possess guns in the state:
- Person convicted of a felony
- Person convicted of a violent crime
- Person convicted of a drug-related misdemeanor
- User of unlawful drugs
- Person who is chemically dependent.
Carrying a firearm is also allowed in Minnesota provided there is a permit to carry. This permit is relatively accessible to citizens because Minnesota is a “shall issue” state, which means that if a person meets the minimum qualifications, authorities must give them the permit and cannot deny their application.
However, there are places in Minnesota where firearms are prohibited even among permit-holders. These restricted locations include:
- Federal buildings
- National parks
- Schools and school zones
- Child care centers
- State hospitals
- State correctional facilities
- State Capitol area and courthouses.
Gun restrictions are hotly debated, frequently changing, and often confusing. For instance, Minnesota law generally allows carrying a gun in public if you have a permit to carry, except in some counties such as Hennepin County, where churches have the right to ban firearms from their premises.
Under such complicated rules, it can be easy to get accused of a gun violation, and what’s more, defending yourself from a weapons charge can be extremely difficult. Let Attorney Jeff Dean help you with his in-depth experience in this field of law.
Defenses Against a Weapons Charge in Minnesota
Having been a criminal defense attorney for over 26 years now, Jeff Dean is highly competent in using gun charge defenses such as:
- Unlawful or unreasonable search of your property
- Lack of intent where the crime requires proof of intent
- Self defense, defense of your property, or defense of others
- Lack of control over the weapon – for example, someone else used your gun
- Using weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to raise reasonable doubt.
Mr. Dean’s strategic and tenacious work has led to numerous acquittals and case dismissals in state and federal courts. Some of his cases have set precedents in Criminal Law and even had unconstitutional laws struck down in favor of his clients. This winning track record has earned him the respect of Minnesota judges and the trust of many Minnesotans who have reclaimed their freedom with his help.
Are you facing a weapons charge due to the following scenarios or something similar? Reach out to Jeff Dean right away.
- Found with a gun that is not yours
- Accused of recklessly brandishing a firearm
- Facing an enhanced criminal charge due to the presence of a weapon
- Found with a gun at an unlawful traffic stop
- Unconstitutionally searched for weapons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota Weapon Restrictions
What counts as a dangerous weapon in Minnesota?
According to Minnesota Statutes Section 609.02, a dangerous weapon is any firearm, device, or combustible liquid that can produce great bodily harm or death. Among such weapons are guns, switchblades, and explosives.
Is concealed carry legal in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota allows the concealed carrying of firearms provided the person has a concealed-carry permit and that the firearm is lawfully obtained.
What is the minimum age to carry a gun in Minnesota?
Until recently, the minimum age to get a permit to carry a gun in Minnesota was 21. However, a court decision in March 2023 struck down this rule, which means 18- to 20-year-olds are now also allowed to obtain a permit to carry in the state.
Can minors possess a gun in Minnesota?
Yes, under certain conditions, minors may possess and handle a firearm in Minnesota. Persons aged 13 and younger must be supervised by an adult when handling certain firearms. Persons aged 14 and 15 do not need adult supervision but need a firearms safety certificate. Persons aged 16 and 17 may possess a rifle or shotgun with no need for supervision or certificate. They cannot, however, possess an assault weapon or pistol unless supervised.
What types of charges can be aggravated by a weapon in Minnesota?
A dangerous weapon enhancement may be applied to various criminal charges including:
- Arson
- Assault or domestic assault
- Burglary or robbery
- Criminal sexual conduct
- Drug crimes
- Felony stalking
- Kidnapping or false imprisonment
- Murder.
A weapon enhancement can significantly increase the potential penalty for the offense, sometimes raising a misdemeanor to a felony, or elevating the degree of the crime. If you have been charged with an aggravated offense or are facing a possible enhancement, call Jeff Dean right away for your legal protection.
Contact Weapons/Firearms Defense Attorney Jeff Dean
When you need criminal defense that’s been proven effective in Minnesota, call Attorney Jeff Dean. In his 26+ years of service as a criminal defense lawyer, he has had his clients acquitted, charges dismissed, penalties reduced, and convictions overturned. The legal community respects his first-rate work, and Minnesota citizens trust him for helping secure their freedom.
Talk to Jeff Dean about your gun offense or weapons charge. Call today. (612) 305-4360
