William G. Yarborough

Can I bring a concealed firearm to another person’s house?

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While South Carolina doesn’t require citizens to have a permit to purchase and own firearms, it does observe “shall issue” rules when issuing concealed carry permits. Applicants only need to meet the basic requirements set by state law to receive a concealed carry permit.

Let’s say you have a concealed carry permit. One day, an acquaintance invites you to their home for a party. While you believe this acquaintance can be trusted, you elect to bring a concealed firearm to the party out of caution. You also choose not to inform your acquaintance that you’re bringing a gun.

You arrive at the party, and not long after, a fight breaks out between some of the drunk guests. Despite the violence, you choose not to draw your firearm during the fight. The fighting is severe enough that the party host calls the police to break it up.

However, when it’s your turn to undergo police inspection, they notice your concealed firearm. Suddenly, you’re flagged by officers for bringing a gun to an acquaintance’s home, and after confirming with the host that they’re unaware you had a concealed firearm, they take you away for questioning.

Did you commit a crime?

State law on bringing concealed firearms to another residence

South Carolina law prohibits gun owners from carrying concealed weapons to another person’s home without the homeowner’s permission. This applies to both concealed carry permit holders and those without permits.

Anyone who violates this rule will be charged with a criminal misdemeanor. The individual faces a minimum $1,000 fine and a maximum one-year prison sentence if convicted. The court also has the discretion to revoke the offender’s permit for five years.

If you face this gun charge, know that a criminal conviction prohibits you from purchasing or possessing firearms under federal law. And that’s in addition to the other disadvantages of having a conviction, such as employers shying away from hiring those with criminal records. You should consider challenging the charge with the help of a learned attorney who has experience in gun laws.

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.

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