Texas takes gun rights seriously, but it also takes weapons charges seriously. If you’ve been arrested and face Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon (UCW) charges, we can help.
Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon: Understanding UCW Charges in Texas
Under Texas Penal Code § 46.02, a UCW charge is when someone intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carries a firearm, illegal knife, or club in a motor vehicle or public place under specific conditions that make the carry illegal.
You can be charged with unlawfully carrying a weapon if:
- The weapon was in plain view, and you didn’t have a License to Carry (LTC).
- You were carrying a weapon while committing another offense.
- You were carrying a weapon while intoxicated.
- You were not legally permitted to possess a firearm due to a prior conviction.
- You were carrying in a prohibited area, such as a school, bar, or airport.
- You’re alleged to be affiliated with a street gang.
Even after Texas implements constitutional carry laws in 2021, these restrictions still apply. That means a violation can come with severe criminal charges.
UCW Penalties in Texas
Most UCW charges in Texas are classified as Class A misdemeanors, which can carry up to one year in jail and up to $4,000 in fines. However, courts can upgrade your charge to a third-degree felony under certain circumstances, including if used or displayed threateningly.
Felony UCW charges have much more severe consequences, such as increased jail sentences and fines. Convictions can mean up to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. Felonies and misdemeanors can follow you for life, so contact our experienced criminal defense attorneys today.
How We Defend Against UCW Charges in Texas
We don’t just take cases; we take them personally.
At the Law Office of Philip D. Ray, we dig into the facts, investigate the arrest, and search for every opportunity to challenge the prosecution while advocating for your rights.
Common UCW defense strategies include:
- The carry was lawful, but enforcement got it wrong.
- There was no criminal intent.
- The weapon was found during an unconstitutional stop or an unlawful search.
- You were not engaged in criminal activity.
- The location wasn’t prohibited.
Our team will review the location and circumstances to determine whether the law was applied correctly, then work tirelessly to defend your rights as a Texas citizen.
Trust the Law Office of Philip D Ray
DO NOT talk to the police or answer questions about your weapons.
DO NOT accept a plea deal without legal advice.
And DO NOT forget to contact the Law Office of Philip D. Ray to speak with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney. The sooner you speak to a legal expert, the better your chances in and out of court.
When You Hire Us for UCW Charges in Texas
With years of experience serving clients across North Texas, Philip D Ray is a former prosecutor who knows how the system works — and how to beat it.
When you hire our firm, you get a relentless criminal defense team and a skilled trial attorney. You get a customized defense strategy for UCW charges in Texas, including comprehensive communication and a focus on protecting your rights, record, and reputation.
Contact the Law Office of Philip D Ray now to schedule a consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and start building a defense tailored to your situation. Let’s fight back together before the system builds a case against you.