Gun violence has always been a pertinent issue in US society. According to the Gun Violence Archive, over 40,000 people died from gun violence in the US in 2023. There are also more gun and ammunition shops in the US than auto and coffee shops.
The Constitution State has robust laws and regulations around firearm possession that have made gun ownership highly controlled. Still, you can obtain a firearm, provided you follow the law. Read more below to uncover regulations on owning firearms in Connecticut.
Who Can Possess a Firearm?
Connecticut has stringent rules when it comes to firearms possession. However, you can lawfully possess and carry a weapon, provided you follow the rules and regulations. Consult a criminal defense lawyer today for advice on ensuring compliance with gun ownership laws in Connecticut.
In the United States, the following people or groups cannot own firearms:
- Convicted felons
- Persons convicted of certain domestic violence charges
- Persons certified as medically unfit
- Children
- Intoxicated persons
Anyone on this list will be charged with criminal firearms possession. So how, then, can you lawfully possess a firearm?
Steps to Lawfully Possess a Firearm
First, you must have attained the legal age of 21 years. You will then need to complete the course on handgun safety. You will only be granted an eligibility certificate if you qualify, provided you don’t fall into the categories listed above.
Vetting is done through background checks, which may be extended over time. Cooperating with the officers conducting these checks is necessary for easy certification. In most cases, a licensed firearms dealer is tasked to conduct a background check for every firearm sale.
Connecticut will also conduct a national criminal background check before one is granted an eligibility certificate. Remember, civilians can’t own certain types of firearms for public safety.
Unlawful Weapons
In addition to the above requirements, certain weapons are banned. Under Connecticut law, first enacted in 1993, you cannot own or use assault rifles. The ban requires you not to buy, own, or transfer ownership of these weapons. Large-capacity magazines are also prohibited. Any magazine with more than ten ammunition rounds falls under this class of banned firearms.
What if you already have such a large-capacity magazine? Please note that there were strict deadlines for all such weapons to be registered in Connecticut. Consult your attorney on whether your large-capacity magazine has been registered as per regulations. Other standard but banned weapons include silencers, switch-knives, and sawed-off shotguns.
So, What Weapons are Lawful?
You can own a rifle, shotgun, starter gun, or any projectile weapon, provided you are licensed to own one. Remember that Connecticut requires an additional permit if you also want to carry your weapon.
Unlawful Possession
If you have a gun without a license, you may be charged with unlawful possession. To win against such a charge, you must show that you were not in actual or constructive possession of the gun. Actual possession is when the weapon is in your hands. On the other hand, constructive possession is when the gun is both within your vicinity and you know about it.
Federal Law and State Law
Connecticut Law does not bar open carry for guns if you have all the necessary documents. However, you may need extra permits if you intend to conceal and carry, as it is standard under federal guidelines and many state practices. Federal law sets the baseline rules on who is prohibited from owning or buying a firearm, such as certain convicted felons or people with specific restraining orders.
States like Connecticut then add their own stricter rules on licensing, background checks, and which weapons are allowed. This means you must follow both federal and state requirements at the same time. Ignorance of either level of law will not be a defense if you are charged with unlawful possession.
Conclusion
Firearms ownership in Connecticut is possible, but it comes with serious responsibilities. Understanding who may lawfully own a gun, which weapons are banned, and how federal and state rules interact is essential for staying on the right side of the law.
Always complete required training, keep your documentation up to date, and avoid any weapon that may fall into a prohibited category. If you are unsure about your status or your firearm, speak with a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer. Proper guidance today can help you exercise your rights safely while avoiding criminal charges in the future.