Weapons and Firearms Attorney in Prescott, AZ
Arizona boasts permissive laws concerning firearms and weapons compared to many other states. Despite this permissiveness, the repercussions for violating Arizona’s gun laws can be severe. At TED Law in Prescott, our dedicated team is focused on safeguarding the Second Amendment rights of our clients and assisting those confronting criminal charges related to firearms. We emphasize the importance for Arizona residents to comprehend their rights under the law to avoid potential legal issues.
Legal Firearms
In accordance with Arizona law, residents enjoy the freedom to own and possess a diverse range of firearms. Section § 13-3101 of the Arizona Criminal Code defines a firearm as any “handgun, pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, or other weapon” utilizing an explosive to expel a projectile. Notably, BB guns, pellet guns, and other air-powered guns fall outside this definition. The legal characterization of a firearm also excludes guns that are permanently inoperable.
Arizona does not mandate obtaining a license or registration for purchasing or owning a gun. Individuals aged 18 or older can buy a legal firearm from a private individual, while purchasing from a federally-licensed dealer requires individuals to be at least 21 years old. Additionally, individuals must be legally permitted to possess a firearm. Legal firearms in Arizona encompass:
- Semi-automatic firearms: Guns capable of rapid succession firing with each round requiring a separate trigger pull.
- “Assault” weapons: Rifles or shotguns featuring specific aesthetic and functional features like a detachable magazine, folding stock, or pistol grip. Semi-automatic assault weapons are permissible in Arizona.
Illegal Firearms
Arizona gun laws designate very few firearms as illegal. Prohibitions include:
- Automatic weapons (machine guns): Firearms firing more than one round with a single action of the trigger.
- Short-barreled rifles: Rifles with barrels less than 16 inches long.
- Short-barreled shotguns: Shotguns with barrels less than 18 inches long.
- Sawed-off weapons: Rifles or shotguns modified to an overall length of less than 26 inches.
Prohibitions also extend to silencers or devices designed to muffle firearm reports, as well as the purchase, sale, or possession of explosive devices like bombs, rockets, grenades, or mines.
The Sale and Transfer of Guns
Private individuals in Arizona retain the right to sell or transfer firearms without background checks or state registration requirements. However, selling or transferring firearms to a prohibited possessor may result in weapons misconduct charges.
Arizona law prohibits local municipalities, including city and county governments, from enacting regulations, ordinances, or taxes related to firearms or ammunition possession, sale, transfer, licensing, or registration.
Protecting Your Rights in Prescott
For comprehensive information on permissible gun types under Arizona law, reach out to our office. Call 602-453-3100 for a confidential consultation at TED Law, offering a broad spectrum of legal services to address questions about gun rights and assist those facing criminal charges related to weapons violations. Our firm serves clients in Prescott, Yavapai County, and surrounding areas.