William G. Yarborough

Can I allow my friend to borrow my firearm?

Free Evaluation
100% Secure & Confidential

South Carolina residents can own firearms. As a gun enthusiast, you might feel compelled to lend your firearm to a friend. Fortunately, there are no laws against this act.

However, you might bear liability if you permit them to borrow your gun when the state law prohibits it. As the firearm’s registered owner, you passed the necessary background checks and qualifications to purchase it. These requirements do not extend to your friend.

Also, the law has provisions that prohibit certain people from possessing or carrying firearms, including:

  • Any individual convicted of a violent crime
  • Aliens who reside in the United States
  • Individuals with domestic violence convictions or specific protective orders
  • Patients with mental disorders deemed unqualified to bear a firearm
  • Individuals undergoing treatment for alcohol or drug addiction
  • Minors, especially juveniles committed to the local Department of Juvenile Justice
  • Patients or prisoners under the Department of Mental Health

Even so, there are exceptions based on the situation. Minors could possess a firearm if supervised by an adult or a qualified instructor. They can also lawfully carry or possess firearms if they are training or serving in the military.

Other gun laws in South Carolina

Aside from prohibitions against people, certain firearms are illegal to possess in the state, such as:

  • Sawed-off shotguns and rifles
  • Machine guns
  • Military-grade firearms
  • Teflon-coated ammunition

Additionally, the law imposes limitations on carrying a firearm in certain places. It is typically illegal to have a gun in establishments with alcohol. However, a person with a permit to carry could do so if they do not consume alcohol while there.

Public transit vehicles also have limitations on carrying firearms. Only law enforcement has the right to carry guns in these locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime, arrested, or under investigation then you need a lawyer.

When you’re charged with a crime, there may be potential penalties that you’re not aware of. But there are ways to defend against the charges, too. Your lawyer can strategize for your case. They can represent you in court and to the prosecutor, putting their expertise to work for you.

Even if the charges don’t seem significant now, they may affect you in the future. Your lawyer defends your freedom and your best interests. If you’re facing a criminal charge or police investigation, contact a criminal defense lawyer.

What steps should I take immediately to protect my rights?

If you’re arrested or charged with a crime, be polite – but don’t consent to any search. Politely say that you refuse to answer any questions. Don’t resist the law enforcement officer.

Exercise your right to remain silent. This includes law enforcement officers before and after the arrest. It also means not talking to others at the police station, your friends, extended family, and social media. The things you say can be used against you.

Ask to contact your lawyer. Then call us right away. We can represent you at your next court hearing. Save everything that you think may be relevant to the case.

How long will my case take?

Every case has a different timeline depending on the severity and facts of the case. Some criminal charges can be resolved in just a few weeks. Others can take several months.

As your lawyer, William G. Yarborough will help you balance the various factors. It can take time to build defenses and/or negotiate a favorable plea agreement. It may be worth it to wait to go to trial. Other times, it’s best to take a plea deal.

What’s right for you depends on multiple factors. Attorney Yarborough can advise you on what he thinks is your best course of action.

Will my case go to trial?

There may be non-trial options available to you. You may secure a plea bargain or a pre-trial case diversion. Sometimes, preliminary motions can result in charges being dismissed.

However, you always have the right to a trial. In a trial, the prosecutor must prove the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt.

Most cases don’t end up going to trial. But what matters is your case. Attorney Yarborough will work with you on a personalized case plan that reflects your interests and goals.

If your case does go to trial, Attorney William G. Yarborough is prepared to aggressively defend you in court.

WGY Logo White

100% Confidential
Available 24/7

Call 864-808-6871

"*" indicates required fields