Justin Wilson
Senior Attorney
Have Dallas police arrested you for weapons or gun crimes? Many weapons offenses impose significant penalties in the event of conviction, making it critical to have knowledgeable legal representation to protect your rights and interests when facing the criminal justice system. Hiring an experienced Dallas firearm defense lawyer is essential to help you handle the legal process and avoid severe consequences such as hefty fines, imprisonment, or loss of rights. Contact My Dallas Criminal Lawyer today for an initial case evaluation with a dedicated weapons or gun charge defense lawyer to pursue a favorable resolution to your charges.
Table Of Contents
Do I Need a Firearms Defense Lawyer in Dallas?
When facing prosecution for a weapons offense in Dallas, having a criminal defense lawyer on your side can help you obtain the best possible resolution under the circumstances of your case. At My Dallas Criminal Lawyer, our legal team will fight to protect your freedom and future by:
- Independently investigating your case to ensure we have all available facts and evidence
- Reviewing the details of your case to evaluate potential defenses and case strategies
- Ensuring you understand your charges and the potential outcomes so you can make informed decisions about how to proceed in your case
- Vigorously contesting the prosecution’s case, including seeking to exclude unlawfully obtained evidence or reduce or dismiss your charges for lack of evidence
- Fighting as hard as possible for the best outcome under the circumstances, even when that means going to trial
Hiring an experienced firearms defense attorney in Dallas can make all the difference in building the best defense, protecting your criminal record, and safeguarding your future employment opportunities. A weapons conviction can have lasting consequences, so it is crucial to have skilled legal representation to minimize the impact on your life.
Why Choose an Attorney from My Dallas Criminal Lawyer?
After an arrest on weapons charges in Dallas, you may face life-altering consequences in the event of a conviction. As a result, your choice of legal representation can have a significant effect on the outcome of your case and your future. Turn to an experienced Dallas firearm defense attorney from My Dallas Criminal Lawyer to advocate for you because:
- Our attorneys have earned a reputation for in-depth preparation, vigorous advocacy, and stellar client service.
- We tailored our legal strategy to each client’s case, needs, concerns, and goals.
- You will work directly with an experienced defense attorney who will listen to your story, help you understand your options, and craft a persuasive case to help you seek the best possible outcome.
- Our legal team will utilize its extensive knowledge and background in litigation to safeguard your rights, freedom, and reputation.
Choosing the right law office can make all the difference in your case. Our commitment to providing a solid defense and maintaining transparent legal fees sets us apart from other firms.
Understanding Weapons/Gun Charges in Dallas
Texas criminal law encompasses various offenses related to weapons and firearms. These include a wide range of criminal offenses, such as common weapons offenses and weapons crime, which can carry severe legal penalties. If you are facing a Dallas gun charge or any gun-related accusation, consulting an experienced gun crime attorney is crucial to protect your rights and navigate the complexities of Texas law. At My Dallas Criminal Lawyer, our firearms defense attorneys can help you after prosecutors have charged you with crimes such as:
Unlawful Carrying of Weapons
In Texas, it’s illegal to carry a handgun if you are under 21 or have been convicted in the past five years of assault, deadly conduct, making terroristic threats, or using a gun in public – and you’re not at home, in your vehicle, or heading directly to it.
A person can also break the law in Texas by carrying a handgun in their car or boat if:
- The gun is in plain view and not in a holster (unless they’re 21 or older or have a license to carry)
- They are doing something illegal beyond a simple traffic or boating ticket
- They are not allowed to have a gun under the law
Illegal possession of a weapon can also be discovered during a routine traffic stop, where police may find weapons while checking for other violations.
In Texas, it’s also illegal for anyone under 18 to carry a location-restricted knife unless they are at home, traveling to or from their car or boat, or being directly supervised by a parent or legal guardian. It’s also illegal to carry a handgun openly in public unless it’s in a holster, even if part of the gun can be seen.
Finally, it’s against the law to carry a handgun while intoxicated unless you’re at home, on private property with permission, or in a car or boat you own or have permission to be in.
Penalties for Unlawful Carrying of Weapons
Unlawful carrying of weapons typically constitutes a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $4,000, or both. However, unlawfully carrying a location-restricted knife constitutes a Class C misdemeanor that imposes a fine of up to $500. Furthermore, unlawfully carrying a handgun while prohibited from possessing a firearm under a protection order or after a Class A misdemeanor domestic violence conviction commits a third-degree felony, imposing a sentence of two to ten years in prison. Carrying a handgun while prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a felony conviction is a second-degree felony punishable by a sentence of five to 20 years.
Carrying Weapons in Prohibited Places
Texas law prohibits individuals from intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carrying a firearm, location-restricted knife, club, or other prohibited weapons in certain places, including:
- On the premises or in the passenger vehicle of a school or post-secondary educational institution, except according to written regulations or written authorization from the school or while possessing a concealed handgun under license
- On the premises of a polling place on election day or during early voting
- On the premises of the courts, except according to written regulations or written authorization of the court
- At a racetrack
- In the secured area of an airport
- Within 1,000 feet of a place of execution on the day that the Department of Criminal Justice imposes a death sentence
- On the premises of a business that has an alcohol or permit license, if the business derives a majority of its income from the sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption
- On the premises of a high school, collegiate, or professional sporting event or interscholastic event, unless the person uses the weapon to participate in such event
- At a correctional or civil commitment facility
- At a hospital or mental health institution
- At an amusement park
- In an open meeting room of a governmental entity
Violating these restrictions can result in felony charges and severe penalties, including possible incarceration in county jail.
An offense normally constitutes a third-degree felony but can become a Class A or C misdemeanor for specific locations.
Unlawful Carrying of a Handgun by a License Holder
A license holder commits a crime if they carry a handgun and intentionally display it in plain view of another person in a public place, except when carrying the handgun in a holster.
Improper gun possession by a license holder can result in criminal charges, making it crucial to understand and comply with all firearm laws to avoid serious legal consequences.
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
A person may not lawfully possess a firearm following a felony or Class A misdemeanor domestic violence conviction until the fifth anniversary of their release from incarceration, supervision, or parole. Gun ownership rights are significantly restricted for individuals with prior convictions, especially those labeled as a convicted felon, as Texas law prohibits convicted felons from legally possessing firearms except under limited circumstances after a waiting period.
Only individuals who meet the legal requirements and do not have disqualifying prior convictions can legally possess firearms under Texas law. A member of a criminal street gang may not lawfully possess a handgun in a motor vehicle or watercraft. Finally, a person may not lawfully possess a firearm while subject to a protection order.
Possessing a firearm while prohibited after a felony or Class A misdemeanor domestic violence conviction constitutes a third-degree felony. Otherwise, the offense becomes a Class A misdemeanor.
Possession, Manufacture, Transport, or Sale of Prohibited Weapons
Texas law prohibits intentionally or knowingly possessing, manufacturing, transporting, or selling prohibited weapons unless registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Prohibited weapons include:
- Explosive weapons
- Machine guns
- Short-barrel firearms
- Armor-piercing ammunition
- Chemical dispensing devices
- Zip guns
- Tire deflation devices
- Improvised explosive devices
Illegal weapons in Texas also include items such as brass knuckles, which are specifically prohibited and can result in criminal penalties for possession or carrying. Additionally, deadly conduct is defined as reckless behavior involving weapons that creates an immediate risk of serious harm to others, such as discharging a firearm or pointing a weapon at another person. An offense constitutes a third-degree felony.
Unlawful Transfer of Certain Weapons
A person commits a crime if they sell, rent, lease, loan, or give a handgun to:
- Someone they know intends to use it unlawfully
- A minor
- An intoxicated person
- A prohibited person
A person can also commit an offense by knowingly making a false material statement on a form required to purchase, sell, or transfer firearms.
Certain unlawful transfers of firearms can result in federal charges in addition to state penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weapons/Gun Charges
Weapons or gun charges in Dallas can arise under several circumstances. Some of the common questions that clients facing such charges have include:
Will I have to go to jail or prison for a weapons/gun charge?
Weapons offenses in Texas can impose lengthy jail or prison terms. A conviction can result in serious consequences, including hefty fines and long-term impacts on your life. However, a court may choose to impose probation instead of incarceration depending on a defendant’s criminal history and the nature or severity of their weapons offense.
What defenses could I raise against a weapons charge?
Many weapons criminal statutes under Texas law provide defenses to prosecution for those offenses. Other common defenses against weapons or firearm charges include:
- Lack of Possession – Defendants facing weapon charges may argue that the prosecution’s case fails to prove they had actual or constructive possession of the weapon.
- Mistaken Identity – A defendant may assert that a victim or witness has mistakenly identified them as the person who committed the weapons offense.
- Lack of Intent – Many weapons offenses require a defendant to have acted with a certain degree of criminal intent. Defendants may argue they did not act with the level of intent required by the offense.
- Unlawful Search and Seizure – A defendant may file motions to exclude a seized weapon from the prosecution’s case, arguing that police recovered the weapon through an unlawful search that lacked a warrant or probable cause.
- Self-Defense – Self defense can be a valid legal defense in certain cases, such as when the defendant reasonably believed they were protecting themselves or others from imminent danger. Texas law, including stand your ground statutes, recognizes self-defense as a justification for actions that might otherwise be considered criminal.
- Insanity Plea – The insanity plea is a specialized legal defense used when a defendant is found not mentally competent to stand trial. This requires evaluation by a mental health professional to determine the defendant’s mental state and ability to understand the proceedings.
In deadly conduct cases, a key element of the charge is that the defendant’s actions placed others in imminent danger of serious bodily harm.
It is crucial to work with an experienced attorney to identify the best defense for your situation and to build a solid defense strategy that protects your rights and maximizes your chances of a favorable outcome.
What steps should I take after an arrest on gun charges?
Following an arrest on weapons charges, you can best protect your rights and interests by invoking your right to remain silent, refraining from talking to the police about your charges, and asking to speak to a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Navigating the legal process after a weapons-related arrest can be complex, and consulting a Dallas gun crime attorney is crucial to ensure your rights are protected throughout each stage.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
After a weapons-related arrest in Texas, you need experienced legal advocacy to protect your rights and interests. Texas is known for its liberal gun laws, and facing a Dallas gun crime or gun possession charge requires a team of attorney familiar with the most liberal gun laws in the country. Call My Dallas Criminal Lawyer today at 214-949-4117 today for a confidential consultation with a weapons crimes defense attorney to discuss your options for pursuing a favorable resolution to your charges.
Last Updated: November 4, 2025
Collin County
August 2025
Acquitted
Driving While Intoxicated Jury Trial
Collin County
August 2025
Dismissed
Second-Degree Felony Sexual Assault of a Child
Ellis County
August 2025
Dismissed
Assault Causes Bodily Injury to a Family Member
Collin County
August 2025
Felony Reduced
State Jail Felony DWI with Child Reduced to Misdemeanor
Denton County
July 2025
NO-BILL
3 Counts of Manslaughter & 3 Counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
Dallas County
June 2025
Dismissed
Second-Degree Felony Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon
Denton County
June 2025
Felony No-Billed & Motion to Revoke Withdrawn
State Jail Felony Injury to Elderly & Motion to Revoke Misdemeanor Probation
Dallas County
May 2025
Deferred Adjudication
Second-Degree Felony Aggravated Assault w/Deadly Weapon Reduced to Class A Misdemeanor Discharge of Firearm in Certain Municipalities
What Our Clients Say
Thomas A.
Justin Wilson and Justin Harris were amazing. Highly recommend them.
Lybbie
I trust Justin for any legal related questions and he certainly delivers. I recommend him 100% as he is committed to you from start to end- no matter the situation.
Cristal D.
Absolutely the best team you could ask for. From start to finish, the entire office was professional, compassionate, and truly dedicated. They made me feel heard, respected, and confident during one of the most stressful times of my life. Their communication was consistent, and you can tell they genuinely care about their clients and their outcomes.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who is sharp, honest, and will fight for you like it’s personal – this is the team you want on your side. I can’t thank them enough for everything they did. They truly are the best in the business.
Natalie M.
Justin Harris was an exceptional lawyer- he is hardworking and dedicated and will reach your needs and more.
He was reliable and professional in every way. He makes sure that you are not only heard but seen. When working with Justin- it gave me strong trust that he cared and that he is a man of his word.
Highly recommend this law firm. Justin and the team handled my case with the upmost care, always kind and professional, and let me know all the details every step of the way.
Prof. Carlos R.
My first impression with Justin and Heidi was that they are a first class law firm, very professional and very open to answering questions and making a person feel appreciated. I am glad I met both at Formation in Frisco Texas.
Alex C.
I have come to know Justin and his team through my practice as a civil lawyer, and Justin has always impressed me with the way he treats his clients, and his ability to clearly explain options. He works tirelessly to be prepared for all his cases, and always treats others with professionalism and respect.
Joshua J.
Justin is a super professional lawyer with positive results. I would refer Justin to any one who needs help with anything. Justin gets it done with positive results.
Yoker V.
I highly recommend Justin 100%, the total positive experience started the moment we first spoke. Justin is a complete and total professional and a highly skilled lawyer outside and especially inside the courtroom. My case had its challenges but Justin skillfully did his research and presented the court and jury a master class. At the end of trial the judge looked at prosecutor and said ” that’s how its done” YLV
Donna D.
Knowledgeable, patient, listened to what my situation needed. Impressed with my Attorney and his service.
Mukesh K.
I have absolutely no hesitation in declaring that Justin is one of the finest attorneys you will ever find to represent your case most effectively yet very ethically. He is extremely professional and very deliberate in his advice and charting the right course of action appropriate for the situation. I used him for a DUI case and cant stress enough how much trust he developed in me and got the best outcome possible for me by getting the case dismissed. Good luck to the reader. Go with Justin.