Owning a firearm comes with major responsibilities. You should be able to handle your weapon safely and responsibly.
Florida has specific laws on the matter, and breaking these could lead to severe penalties. Knowing the rules and the risks of mixing guns and alcohol or drugs can keep you out of legal hot water.
The law is firm on mixing guns and alcohol
In Florida, it’s against the law to carry a gun when you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This rule applies whether your gun is visible or concealed. It’s also illegal to bring a firearm into bars or the bar sections of restaurants.
For gun laws, being “under the influence” isn’t the same as driving. There’s no set alcohol level that determines if you’re breaking the law. Authorities may look at the following factors:
- Behavior changes: Acting differently than you normally would
- Poor choices: Making decisions you wouldn’t make sober
- Clumsy handling: Having trouble holding or using your gun safely
- Slow reactions: Taking longer to respond to things around you
The law may look at how you act, talk, and move to decide if you’re too impaired to carry a gun. Even a little alcohol or drugs can affect your ability to handle a firearm safely.
Consequences of carrying while impaired
Getting caught with a gun while intoxicated can lead to serious trouble. The exact punishment may depend on what happened and any previous offenses. You might face:
- Criminal charges: Second-degree misdemeanor or even worse, depending on the offense
- Jail: Up to 60 days behind bars
- Money: Fines up to $500
- Supervision: Possible probation
- Gun rights: You might lose your license to carry
- Future problems: A criminal record can hurt job and housing chances
Knowing the law can help you make smart choices about guns and alcohol. Ultimately, it may be wise to leave your firearm at home if you plan to drink. If you’re facing legal charges, a lawyer could help you improve the outcome of your situation.
Author Bio
Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
