For the most part, Arkansas is a gun-friendly jurisdiction. State statutes regarding firearm ownership minimize limitations on Second Amendment rights. However, it is still possible for hunters and those who own firearms for self-defense to violate the law without committing an obvious criminal act.
People who own firearms are vulnerable to prosecution if they fail to follow all relevant state statutes. There are a handful of common weapons charges brought against firearm owners in Arkansas, with the three offenses below being among the most common.
1. Unlawful possession by a felon
Those with serious criminal convictions on their records may lose the right to lawfully own firearms. If they fail to take appropriate steps to reinstate those rights, they may face criminal prosecution for possessing what could otherwise be a lawful firearm.
2. Unsafe firearm discharge
Individuals do not need to fire their weapons with the intent to harm others to be at risk of arrest and prosecution. Firing a warning shot could affect self-defense claims or lead to criminal charges. Firing a weapon from a vehicle could lead to felony charges.
3. Possessing a defaced weapon
Some people intentionally remove serial numbers and other identifying features from firearms. Anyone who later acquires that firearm with the serial number or other identifying features removed is potentially at risk of criminal prosecution. The state prohibits the possession of defaced firearms and can bring charges against owners even if they did not actually remove the serial number themselves.
Anyone accused of a weapons offense may need legal support as they explore their options for fighting charges, and that’s okay. Learning more about Arkansas firearms statutes can help people understand their rights and develop a realistic defense strategy.