What Are the Illinois Laws for Concealed Carry of Firearms?

 Posted on March 16, 2020 in Criminal Law

According to the United States Constitution, every American has the right to own a firearm, as per the Second Amendment. Although we have this right, states are allowed to place certain restrictions and limitations on firearm users. This is accomplished by creating laws that apply to the purchase, ownership, and possession of firearms. The state of Illinois is notorious for having rather strict gun laws compared to other states. For example, you are not permitted to openly carry a firearm in the state of Illinois, as all firearms must be concealed from view if you wish to carry them. In addition, if you want to conceal your firearm to carry it in public, you must obtain an Illinois concealed carry license (CCL) to do so. Violations of these laws could result in misdemeanor or felony charges.

Obtaining an Illinois CCL

When it comes to CCL licenses, Illinois is a “shall issue” state. This means that any person who meets all requirements and follows all procedures to obtain a CCL will be issued a license. In order for a person to obtain a CCL, he or she must:

• Be at least 21 years old

• Have a current firearm owner’s identification card (FOID)

• Not have been convicted or found guilty of a misdemeanor involving the use or threat of force or two or more instances of DUI in the past five years

• Not be the subject of a pending arrest warrant, prosecution, or proceeding that could make him or her ineligible to possess or own a firearm

• Not have been in residential or court-ordered treatment for drug or alcohol abuse within the last five years

• Have completed the required firearms training and other educational components required for obtaining a CCL 

One of the major requirements for receiving a CCL is the training component. Before you can receive your CCL, you must have completed proper training from an approved instructor and an approved course. Approved courses consist of 16 hours of various topics, such as firearms safety, basic shooting principles, care, cleaning, loading and unloading of firearms, and the laws relating to the ownership, storage, carry and transportation of the firearm and weapons handling, as well as a live-fire exercise.

Violations of CCL and Other Weapons Laws

Being in compliance with laws pertaining to concealed firearms is extremely important. If you do not obey the laws, you could find yourself facing unlawful use of weapons charges or other violations, including:

• Not having a CCL when carrying a concealed weapon

• Carrying a concealed weapon while under the influence of drugs or alcohol

• Continuing to carry a concealed weapon after a CCL has been suspended or revoked

• Carrying a concealed weapon in prohibited places 

There are dozens of ways in which you could be in non-compliance with the Firearm Concealed Carry Act. Depending on the exact nature of your violation, you could be facing a misdemeanor charge or even a felony charge, in addition to a CCL suspension or revocation. If you have been accused of any type of firearms violation, it is essential that you hire a skilled criminal law attorney.

Contact a Rolling Meadows, IL Criminal Defense Attorney 

There is no such thing as a minor weapons violation in Illinois. If you do not comply with the laws set forth in the Firearm Concealed Carry Act, you could be facing misdemeanor weapons charges or even felony charges, depending on the circumstances of your case. If you are facing any type of weapons charge, a knowledgeable Arlington Heights, IL gun charges defense lawyer can help you build a strong defense and clear your record. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law understands the lasting implications that a weapons charge can have on your life. Call our office today at 847-253-3400 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.ispfsb.com/Public/AboutTheAct.aspx

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=072000050HArt%2E+24&ActID=1876&ChapterID=53&SeqStart=68200000&SeqEnd=71400000

https://www.ispfsb.com/Public/FAQ.aspx