Aggressive Defense Against Louisiana Gun Charges
Last updated on September 30, 2025
At Damico & Stockstill, we provide strategic and aggressive defense against state and federal gun charges in Louisiana. In many cases, we are able to safeguard our clients’ gun rights while minimizing the negative consequences of an arrest.
Your most important next step should be to contact us in Baton Rouge. Our experienced firearms defense lawyers represent clients throughout Louisiana and beyond.
For a free consultation, please call us at 225-769-0190 or complete our contact form.
We Defend Against All Types Of Gun Crime Charges
Charges such as brandishing a weapon or illegally carrying a firearm with a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) can carry serious penalties, including prison time and heavy fines. It is important to understand that the possible penalties range significantly, and you will need an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side as soon as possible to minimize the negative effects of a gun-related arrest.
Don’t assume that the police will understand or be on your side. Don’t assume that, just because you believe in the rule of law, the prosecutor will treat your case lightly. Before you say anything to investigators, talk to us. The attorneys at Damico & Stockstill have extensive experience in gun crime cases. We can defend your rights and freedom if you are facing any type of gun charge, including:
- Assault with a firearm (aggravated assault)
- Owning a gun after a felony conviction
- Drug-related gun crimes
- Domestic violence gun crimes
- Brandishing a firearm (also known as “negligent carrying of a concealed handgun”)
- Carrying a concealed weapon in a restricted location
- Federal gun trafficking charges
Having a concealed carry permit does not automatically prevent you from facing a gun charge. Permitted concealed carry is still restricted, and you could be accused of a firearms offense for entering certain restricted locations while in possession of a gun. If you have questions about these matters, do not hesitate to contact the firearms defense lawyers at Damico & Stockstill. See our client testimonials to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gun Laws In Louisiana
The Damico & Stockstill team knows that facing a firearm charge can be confusing and overwhelming. Below are answers to some of the most common questions people have when it comes to gun laws and gun-related arrests in Louisiana.
What are the most common gun charges in Louisiana?
Gun-related arrests in Louisiana cover a wide range of situations, from minor offenses to very serious felonies. Examples of charges we often see are:
- Carrying a concealed firearm without a valid permit
- Possessing a firearm while in possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS)
- Illegal firearm possession by a convicted felon
- Brandishing or negligent use of a firearm
- Domestic violence incidents involving firearms
- Federal gun crimes, including the trafficking or illegal transfer of weapons
Each of these carries its own penalties, and some may also trigger enhanced sentencing if combined with other alleged crimes.
Is Louisiana an open-carry state?
Yes. Louisiana allows open carry of firearms for individuals 18 and older, but this right has limits. You cannot carry a firearm into certain restricted locations, such as schools and school buses, government buildings and courthouses, bars and establishments serving alcohol for on-site consumption, private property where the owner prohibits firearms, and secure areas like airports. Violating these restrictions can still result in arrest, even if you otherwise meet the age requirement for open carry.
Do I need a permit to carry a concealed weapon in Louisiana?
Yes. To legally carry a concealed firearm in the state, you must acquire a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). This process involves an application, background check and firearms training. Carrying a concealed weapon without a valid CHP can result in criminal charges, fines and possible jail time. More information about the permit process is available from the Louisiana State Police.
What are the penalties for unlawful possession of a firearm?
The penalties depend on the specific circumstances of the offense. Unlawful possession can carry steep consequences, including years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines. For example, a prohibited person, such as a convicted felon caught with a firearm, can face up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $5,000.
Aggravating factors, such as being in possession of drugs at the same time, can lead to enhanced charges and penalties. You can review the full details under the Louisiana law.
Can a convicted felon ever legally own a firearm in Louisiana?
Louisiana law does allow for some limited restoration of gun rights after a felony conviction, but only under strict conditions. Generally, a felon cannot possess a firearm for ten years after completing their sentence, including any probation or parole. After that period, certain nonviolent offenders may regain the ability to legally possess a firearm, provided no new offenses occur.
However, not all felony convictions are eligible. Serious and violent felonies often carry permanent restrictions. Even when state law might allow restoration, federal law may still prohibit firearm possession, creating a complex legal situation. Because of this, any felon considering firearm ownership should seek experienced legal guidance before making a decision.
Contact Us For A Free Consultation
For a free initial consultation, please call us in Baton Rouge at 225-769-0195 or complete our contact form. Our attorneys represent clients in Louisiana and beyond.
