Iowa maintains stringent gun laws aimed at ensuring the safety of all those who purchase, own, and use firearms. Carrying a concealed firearm necessitates adherence to a complex set of regulations. Understanding and complying with these laws is crucial to protect your legal rights. If you are caught violating those laws, you will face harsh criminal penalties. To learn more about Iowa’s gun laws and secure skilled representation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced Des Moines Gun Crimes Lawyer today.
Can You Legally Carry a Concealed Firearm in Iowa?
As of July 1, 2021, Iowa is a constitutional carry state. This means individuals aged 21 or older who are eligible to possess a firearm can carry it concealed without a permit. The state allows for permitless carry for both open and concealed weapons. However, you must meet the requirements to legally own a firearm. This includes being free from certain disqualifications, like felony convictions.
While this new law expands the ability of Iowans to carry concealed weapons, the state still issues permits to carry for reciprocity purposes in other states and a streamlined process of purchasing. It’s important to note that the Iowa Department of Public Safety issues these uniform permits.
What Restrictions Should I Be Aware Of?
Although concealed carry is permitted without a permit in most public locations, there are certain restrictions you should be aware of. Even with a permit, there are limitations on where concealed weapons can be carried. Sensitive locations such as schools, bars, restaurants serving alcohol, courthouses, and government buildings prohibit firearms on their premises.
Training is not mandatory for permitless carry, however, the state offers firearm safety courses that can be helpful for responsible gun ownership. To obtain a Permit to Carry Weapons in Iowa, you will need to complete a handgun safety training course. The training certificate you secure must be dated within two years of your application for a Permit to Carry. You will need to meet certain eligibility requirements, like being a resident, not having certain criminal convictions, and passing a background check.
What Are the Consequences of Non-Compliance?
If a person is found to be illegally carrying a firearm, they can face serious consequences. Violation of Iowa’s gun laws can result in steep fines, years of incarceration, the potential for the firearm to be confiscated, and a criminal record. A criminal record can haunt you for years to come, making it difficult to obtain certain jobs, secure certain loans, and more.
If you have been charged with a gun crime of any kind in Iowa, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of a seasoned lawyer from Herting Law, PLLC. Our legal team is prepared to combat your charges through every step of the legal process ahead and shield you from an uncertain future. Connect with our firm today for more information.
