Union County Carrying a Pistol Without a License Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Carrying a pistol without a license in Union County is a serious offense under New Jersey law, classified as a second-degree crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5(b) with a mandatory minimum prison sentence. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense representation for these charges.
New Jersey Law on Unlicensed Firearm Possession
In New Jersey, it is illegal to carry a handgun in public without a valid permit to carry. This law is strictly enforced, and charges are not limited to concealed carry; having a firearm readily accessible in a vehicle can also lead to prosecution. The statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5(b), defines this act as a crime of the second degree, which is among the most severe classifications in the state.
Last verified: April 2026 | Union County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature.
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the specific law you are accused of violating is critical. You can review the official statute at N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5(b) (official New Jersey Legislature site). For information on court procedures in Union County, visit the Union Vicinage of the New Jersey Superior Court website.
Local Court Process and Defense Strategy in Union County
Cases for carrying a pistol without a license in Union County are heard in the Superior Court, Law Division, in Elizabeth. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction treat these charges with high priority due to state-wide sentencing directives. A strong defense often requires challenging the legality of the search or seizure that led to the discovery of the firearm, as well as examining whether you knowingly possessed the weapon.
- Initial Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery Phase: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, evidence, and witness statements from the prosecution.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to challenge the evidence or seek dismissal of charges.
- Plea Negotiations: Your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor, often seeking a reduction to a lesser charge.
- Trial or Resolution: If no plea agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines and arguments from your lawyer.
Potential Penalties for Carrying a Pistol Without a License in NJ
In Union County, carrying a pistol without a license is a second-degree crime carrying a mandatory minimum state prison sentence of 3 to 5 years, with a presumption of incarceration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying a Handgun Without a Permit (N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5(b)) | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years (with 3-5 year parole ineligibility) | Up to $150,000 | Graves Act applies; permanent felony record; loss of firearm rights. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of firearms charges in New Jersey and provide focused, determined advocacy.
Documented Case Results
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of handling serious firearm charges. While specific results are unique to each case, our firm-wide approach focuses on rigorous investigation and challenging the prosecution’s evidence at every stage.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Union County Firearms Defense Lawyers
If you are searching for a carrying a pistol without a license lawyer near me Union County, our firm is accessible. We offer 24/7 phone consultations for urgent matters. Meetings at our locations are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if I’m arrested for carrying a gun without a permit in Union County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not answer any questions or make any statements to police without your attorney present. Contact a carrying a pistol without a license lawyer Union County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Is there a mandatory jail sentence for this charge in NJ?
Yes. Under New Jersey’s Graves Act, carrying a handgun without a permit carries a mandatory minimum state prison sentence with a period of parole ineligibility. An experienced lawyer is essential to fight for a reduction or dismissal.
Can the charge be reduced to a disorderly persons offense?
It depends. While a full reduction is difficult due to the Graves Act, a skilled attorney may negotiate a plea to a lesser firearm offense or argue for a downgrade based on case-specific facts, such as your lack of prior record or the circumstances of the arrest.
How can I find an affordable carrying a pistol without a license lawyer Union County?
Many firms, including ours, offer flexible payment plans. The cost of a lawyer must be weighed against the severe, lifelong consequences of a crimey of the second degree conviction. We provide clear fee structures during an initial consultation.
What are common defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the stop, search, or seizure; arguing you lacked knowledge the firearm was present; or proving you had a valid permit that was not recognized. Each defense depends entirely on the facts of your case.
Related Legal Services in Union County
If you are facing other charges related to your firearm arrest, we can help. Explore our pages for a Union County weapons offenses lawyer or a Union County criminal defense lawyer. For a broader view of our firearms defense practice, visit our New Jersey firearms charges lawyer hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
New Jersey law governs this practice area.
If you want to see how an Union County case fits into the wider process, our page on carrying a pistol without a license lawyer New Jersey covers it from start to finish.
Your case in Union County, New Jersey
DWI and traffic charges are heard first in the municipal court for the town where the stop occurred; appeals go to the Law Division of the county Superior Court. In Union County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage (12th Vicinage), 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07207, telephone (908) 787-1650, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is N.J.S.A. 39:4-50 (driving while intoxicated) within N.J.S.A. Title 39, the motor vehicle and traffic code. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Union County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Union County NJ lawyers directory · Carrying a Pistol without a License Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Carrying a Pistol without a License Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Carrying a Pistol without a License Lawyer Monmouth County.