Weapons Crimes
Houston Weapons Crime Defense Attorney
While Texas permits most residents to possess firearms in their homes or personal vehicles, carrying a weapon in a restricted area or possessing certain illegal weapons can lead to serious criminal charges. Some offenses even rise to the level of felonies. A weapons crime conviction could result in the loss of your right to own firearms and may permanently damage your record. If you’re facing weapons charges, you need a skilled Houston weapons crime defense attorney on your side.
Dedicated Weapons Crime Defense Attorney in Texas
At Salinas Defense, we take every weapons case seriously and give it the full attention it deserves. Many people facing these charges are unaware that they were breaking the law. If you’ve been accused of a weapons-related offense and need guidance, we’re here to help.
Our legal team will take the time to listen to your story and build a strong, strategic defense tailored to your situation. Time is crucial in criminal cases. The earlier you reach out to legal counsel, the better your chances of a positive outcome in court.
Call (832) 820-1888 or complete our online form to schedule your free case consultation. We serve clients across Harris County, including Pasadena, League City, Webster, Nassau Bay, and more.
Unlawful Carry
Even with Texas’s relaxed gun laws, there are still restrictions. Carrying certain weapons, such as handguns, clubs, or large knives, in prohibited areas can result in criminal charges.
According to Texas Penal Code §46.02, carrying a weapon is illegal unless you’re on your own property or inside/on the way to your car. Handguns must not be in plain view unless you’re licensed and the weapon is carried in a shoulder or belt holster.
A violation could result in a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine. If the offense occurs in an establishment that sells alcohol, the charge may escalate to a third-degree felony, carrying a 2–10 year prison sentence and fines up to $10,000.
Where Weapons Are Prohibited in Texas
Texas law prohibits carrying weapons in several sensitive locations. Under Texas Penal Code §46.03, you cannot carry a weapon in:
Schools or educational institutions
Polling places
Government courts or offices
Racetracks
Secured airport areas
Locations where executions are conducted
Even if you have a license to carry, bringing a weapon into one of these areas can lead to third-degree felony charges.
Additionally, “location-restricted knives” (blades over 5.5 inches) are banned in locations such as:
Bars earning 51%+ revenue from alcohol
School and college sports events
Correctional institutions
Hospitals and nursing homes
Mental health facilities
Amusement parks
Religious buildings
Violations can be charged as a Class C misdemeanor (up to $500 fine) or a third-degree felony if the offense involves schools.
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
Texas prohibits certain individuals from owning firearms. According to Penal Code §46.04, convicted felons may not possess firearms for five years following their release from confinement, parole, or supervision.
Violating this law is a third-degree felony. After five years, felons may only keep firearms at their home.
It’s also illegal to possess a gun within five years of a domestic assault conviction. This results in a Class A misdemeanor—up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
Prohibited Weapons in Texas
Although Texans value the right to bear arms, the law restricts specific weapons. According to Penal Code §46.05, the following are illegal without proper federal registration:
Explosive weapons – Third-degree felony
Machine guns – Third-degree felony
Short-barrel firearms – Third-degree felony
Firearm silencers – Third-degree felony
Brass knuckles – Class A misdemeanor
Armor-piercing ammunition – Third-degree felony
Chemical dispensing devices – Third-degree felony
Zip guns – Third-degree felony
Tire deflation devices – State jail felony
Improvised explosive devices – Third-degree felony
Some weapons may be legally owned if registered federally or designated as relics.
Additional Resources for Weapons Charges
Weapons | Texas Penal Code
Read the full statute outlining Texas weapons laws and legal definitions on the Texas Constitution and Statutes website.
ATF – Houston Division
Visit the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Houston Division for information on gun trafficking, explosives, and ongoing investigations.
Houston Weapons Crime Defense Attorney
If you’ve been charged with a weapons offense in Harris County, act quickly. These charges can carry long-term consequences and, in some cases, result in felony convictions. At Salinas Defense, we’ll develop a strong, personalized legal strategy to protect your rights and fight for your freedom.
Contact us today to speak with an experienced Houston weapons crime defense lawyer. Call (832) 820-1888 or complete our contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We defend clients across South Park, Golf Crest, Southeast Houston, Brookside Village, and surrounding areas.
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