Florida law has strict requirements for individuals to be eligible for a concealed weapon permit. Failure to carry a valid permit while carrying a concealed weapon or firearm is illegal and can result in Misdemeanor or Felony charges, depending on the circumstances. Therefore, it is essential to know the procedures and eligibility criteria for obtaining a concealed weapon permit in Ft. Lauderdale.
A skilled concealed weapons attorney could assist in better understanding the process. Schedule a legal consultation with Leifert & Leifert. One of our attorneys could work with you to explain the rules and regulations surrounding firearms in your area. Learning more about compliance and your rights could substantially help make the concealed weapon permit process more seamless.
Facts about Concealed Weapon Permits in Fort Lauderdale
Pursuant to Fla. Stat. § 790.06 (2018), Florida’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS) is authorized to issue licenses to carry concealed weapons or firearms. All concealed carry permits, which typically must contain a color photograph of its holder, are valid in the state for seven years. Licensees generally must carry their permits, along with valid identification, whenever they are carrying a concealed weapon or firearm.
A concealed weapon permit is not attainable unless individuals meet certain requirements which may include the following:
- 21 or older
- No felony convictions
- Proof of completion of an approved firearms or hunting safety course
- No previous forced hospitalization for mental health issues
- At least three years since completing probation or sentence for convictions related to criminal offenses involving controlled substances, discharging a gun after drinking, habitual offender designation for disorderly intoxication, or at least two DUI offenses
- At least three years since completing probation for an adjudication of guilt withheld or imposition of sentence suspended for any Felony or for any Misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
- Not subject to a domestic violence injunction
Speak with a seasoned gun lawyer to learn more about obtaining a concealed weapons permit in Ft. Lauderdale.
Additional Application Requirements
Applicants for a concealed weapon permit in Ft. Lauderdale also may need to complete a standard application containing a statement that they want a concealed weapons or firearm license as a means of lawful self-defense. Additionally, they generally must submit a $55 fee or a $45 fee for a renewal permit and pay for a full set of fingerprints from a law enforcement agency for the purposes of a criminal background check.
Current law enforcement, correctional, and correctional probation officers are often exempt from submitting fingerprints. The law also may set forth additional requirements for service members who are requesting expedited processing of their concealed weapon permits.
Grounds for Denying, Suspending, and Revoking a Permit
Fla. Stat. § 790.06 specifically provides that DACS shall deny a concealed weapon permit if someone was found guilty of one or more crimes of violence in the three years since completing probation or other court requirements. This may even be the case if the record has been sealed or expunged.
This is also a ground for revocation of an existing concealed carry license and for the suspension of a license upon the arrest of or the filing of charges against individuals for a crime of violence. Suspension of a person’s license also may occur if they become subject to a domestic violence injunction.
Get Advice About Obtaining a Fort Lauderdale Concealed Weapon Permit
State law places significant restrictions on obtaining a concealed weapon permit in Ft. Lauderdale. However, failing to comply with these requirements and get the appropriate license can be devastating if you choose to unlawfully carry a concealed weapon or firearm.
If you are interested in learning about how to get a permit, seek advice from a gun defense attorney. Our skilled attorneys at Leifert & Leifert could help guide you through the process. Call us for a free consultation.
