Principal Office
15110 Dallas Pkwy #400
Dallas, TX 75248
(972) 528-0478
15110 Dallas Pkwy #400
Dallas, TX 75248
(972) 528-0478
Years Defending Texans
Cases Dismissed
Criminal Cases Handled
Counties Served Across Texas
Available | Serving All of Texas
Texas takes weapons offenses seriously, with strict penalties that can result in significant jail time, hefty fines, and permanent loss of your gun rights. Whether you’re facing charges for unlawful carry, felon in possession, or carrying a weapon in prohibited places, the consequences can devastate your future employment opportunities and personal freedom.
At the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, we understand that good people can make mistakes or find themselves wrongfully accused. Our experienced Fort Worth defense attorneys have successfully defended over 6,000 criminal cases, including hundreds of weapons-related charges. We fight aggressively to protect your constitutional rights and preserve your freedom.
Arrested for a gun crime in Fort Worth? Don’t wait – call our attorneys today at (972) 528-0478 for a free consultation. We also provide experienced criminal defense lawyer services in Fort Worth for clients facing additional or related criminal charges.
Fort Worth prosecutors handle a wide range of weapons charges under Texas Penal Code Chapter 46. Understanding the specific charge you’re facing is crucial to mounting an effective defense strategy.
Under Texas Penal Code §46.02, it’s illegal to intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carry a handgun, illegal knife, or club on your person or in a vehicle under your control unless you meet specific legal exceptions.
Common UCW scenarios include:
Class A misdemeanor penalties include up to one year in jail and fines up to $4,000. However, prior convictions or aggravating circumstances can elevate charges to felony level.
Texas Penal Code §46.04 makes it illegal for convicted felons to possess firearms for five years after release from confinement or supervision. This charge often carries enhanced penalties and federal implications.
Key factors prosecutors consider:
Penalties range from state jail felony (180 days to 2 years) to third-degree felony (2-10 years in prison).
Many clients face this charge during traffic stops or public intoxication arrests. Under Texas Penal Code §46.035, it’s illegal to carry a firearm while intoxicated by alcohol or controlled substances, regardless of whether you have a license to carry.
“Intoxicated” means:
This Class A misdemeanor can result in license suspension and enhanced penalties for repeat offenses.
Even licensed carriers cannot bring weapons into certain locations under Texas Penal Code §46.03:
| Location Type | Penalty Level | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Schools/Universities | Third-degree felony | K-12 campuses, college buildings |
| Government Buildings | Class A misdemeanor | Courthouses, city halls |
| Airports | State jail felony | Security checkpoints, secure areas |
| Businesses with 51% Signs | Class A misdemeanor | Bars, nightclubs |
Texas law prohibits certain weapons entirely, including:
Possession of prohibited weapons typically results in Class A misdemeanor charges, though some items carry felony penalties.
The severity of weapons charges varies significantly based on the specific offense, your criminal history, and aggravating circumstances.
Class C Misdemeanor: Fine up to $500
Class A Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year jail, $4,000 fine
State Jail Felony: 180 days – 2 years, $10,000 fine
Third-Degree Felony: 2-10 years prison, $10,000 fine
Second-Degree Felony: 2-20 years prison, $10,000 fine
A weapons conviction creates lasting consequences that affect every aspect of your life:
Every weapons case requires a tailored defense strategy based on the specific facts and evidence. Our experienced attorneys examine every detail to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Lack of Intent or Knowledge
Many weapons charges require proof that you intentionally or knowingly possessed the weapon. Common scenarios include borrowing a vehicle with a concealed weapon or unknowingly carrying prohibited items. Proving lack of knowledge can be challenging but is often successful when defendants genuinely had no awareness of a weapon’s presence.
Unlawful Search and Seizure
The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches. Common violations include traffic stops without reasonable suspicion, searches without consent or warrant, and violation of Miranda rights. If police violated your constitutional rights, any evidence found may be suppressed.
Lawful Possession or Use
Texas law provides several exceptions including constitutional carry for qualifying individuals, premises protection for home/business, emergency self-defense situations, and traveling between lawful locations.
Mistaken Identity or False Allegations
Witnesses can make mistakes, especially in chaotic situations. Security camera footage, GPS data, and alibis can prove you weren’t present when alleged violations occurred.
The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy brings over 75 years of combined experience defending clients against weapons charges in Tarrant County and throughout North Texas.
Let us help protect your record and your rights. Call (972) 528-0478 for a case evaluation today.
Understanding Fort Worth’s booking and court process helps you navigate this challenging time and protect your rights.
If arrested for weapons charges in Fort Worth, you’ll be transported to the Tarrant County Corrections Center at 100 N. Lamar Street, Fort Worth, TX 76196. The booking process typically takes 4-8 hours and includes fingerprinting, mugshots, property inventory, and medical screening.
📞 Jail Information Line: (817) 884-3000 to check if someone has been arrested or if bond has been set.
🚫 Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
📞 Contact Our Firm Immediately
📝 Document Everything
Understanding the Fort Worth court system helps you prepare for your weapons charge case and reduces anxiety about the process.
Weapons charges are handled at the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center:
📞 General Court Information: (817) 884-1438
🚗 Parking Recommendations:
⏰ Arrive 45 minutes early for parking, security screening, and potential elevator delays during peak hours (8:30-9:30 AM).
Security Procedures:
📋 Typical Court Schedule:
The Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center is located in downtown Fort Worth’s government district:
🏢 Building Note: The Tim Curry Center is a modern high-rise building, easily identifiable in downtown Fort Worth’s skyline, located north of Interstate 30 and west of Interstate 35W.
Don’t let one mistake define your future. Weapons charges carry serious consequences that can affect your employment, housing, and fundamental rights for years to come. You need experienced attorneys who understand both Texas state law and federal firearms regulations.
The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy has successfully defended hundreds of weapons cases across North Texas. We know how to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight for dismissals when constitutional violations occur.
Free Case Evaluation Available
Get in touch with our Fort Worth defense lawyers today. Call (972) 528-0478 or contact us online to schedule your confidential consultation.
Serving Fort Worth, Arlington, Dallas, Irving, Carrollton, Richardson, and all of Tarrant County with aggressive criminal defense representation.
Unlawful carry of a weapon is typically a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and $4,000 in fines. Penalties increase to felony level with prior convictions or carrying in prohibited locations like schools.
Yes, under constitutional carry laws effective September 2021, qualifying adults can carry handguns in vehicles without a license. However, the weapon must not be in plain view, and you cannot be prohibited from possessing firearms under federal or state law.
Carrying while intoxicated is a Class A misdemeanor for first offenses. However, discharging the weapon or threatening someone while intoxicated can elevate charges to felony level with prison sentences of 2-10 years.
Felon in possession charges range from state jail felony to third-degree felony, with penalties of 180 days to 10 years in prison. Federal charges may also apply with mandatory minimum sentences.
Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms permanently. However, Texas allows some restoration after completing sentences, and federal relief may be available through presidential pardons or ATF procedures in limited circumstances.
Whether you're facing a felony charge or fighting a traffic ticket, every case deserves serious attention. Get an experienced defense team in your corner now.
