It is important to understand the in some situations, Missourians can wind up facing gun charges for unlawful use of a weapon. This can include felony charges in some situations. Responsible gun owners should be aware of their rights and the applicable laws.
Open carry
Because Missouri is considered an open carry state, it can be especially important for citizens to know what can be considered unlawful use of a weapon including:
- Carrying a concealed weapon into a restricted place such as a courthouse, police station, bar, airport, or other restricted area.
- Carrying a gun into a school, onto a school bus, or at a school-sanctioned event or school board meeting.
- Carrying a lethal weapon into a church, polling place or other government building.
- Brandishing a gun in a threatening manner.
- Discharging a firearm while intoxicated or other negligent use of a firearm.
- Shooting on, along, or across a public highway.
- Shooting in a house or any other structure where people assemble.
- Discharging a gun within 100 yards of a school, church, or courthouse.
- Discharging a gun at a motor vehicle or from a motor vehicle.
- Firing a gun at any person, discharging a warning shot, or setting up a spring gun.
- Possessing a firearm while in possession of drugs.
Criminal defense protections can help accused people who have gotten into trouble with guns. It is important for them to be familiar with their rights and to understand the seriousness of the charges they are facing and how a defense strategy may be able to help them.