Skip to Content
The Law Office of Will Mitchell The Law Office of Will Mitchell
Free Consultations 512-858-8611
Top
Gun Charges

Austin Gun Crime Lawyer

Experienced Criminal Trial Lawyer Serving Texans

While Texas laws regarding guns are among the most free in the country, many statutes still exist governing various aspects of this issue. These laws can be confusing and, if you are not well aware of all of the details, you may find yourself facing a gun charge. At The Law Office of Will Mitchell serving clients throughout the greater Austin area, we can provide the legal guidance and support you need when facing any type of gun offense. With more than 15 years of experience in handling cases involving guns and weapons, our Austin gun charge defense lawyer has a depth of understanding regarding the statutes, justice procedure, and the local court systems that can work to your advantage.

Arrested on gun charges? Reach out to The Law Office of Will Mitchell at (512) 858-8611 for a free, initial consultation about your case.

Texas Gun Laws

In Texas, anyone who is 18 years old or above can own a firearm. In order to purchase a gun from a federally licensed dealer, you must be 21. To carry a handgun, you must obtain a license to carry (LTC) after doing a required training course. You cannot have any felony convictions or be drug-addicted, and must be capable of sound judgment, and pass a background check. Once you have an LTC, you may only openly carry a handgun that is in a shoulder or belt holster. You may be asked for your license by law enforcement when openly carrying.

Those who may not own a firearm include minors under the age of 18, convicted felons within five years of their release or parole, and inmates in prison. Under Texas law, some weapons are prohibited, such as machine guns, short-barreled firearms, and firearms silencers.

Types of Gun Crimes

Common gun offenses in the state can include:

Unlawful carrying of a weapon, which is defined as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carrying a handgun or an illegal weapon in a public area. This law also makes it illegal to carry without an LTC. It may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances.

Possession of a gun by a felon which refers to anyone who has been convicted of either a state or federal felony; these individuals lose their right to own a gun for five years. Violation of this law generally leads to a third-degree felony.

Unlawful transfer of a gun which refers to selling or providing a handgun to someone younger than 18, someone whom you know intends to use it in an unlawful way, someone who is under the influence of an intoxicant, someone who is a felon, or someone who is subject to a protective order prohibiting gun possession.

Discharging a gun in a reckless manner within a municipal area.

Illegal gun trafficking.

What are the Penalties for Gun Crimes?

Gun offenses may result in a misdemeanor or felony charge. Misdemeanor charges can lead to fines of up to $4,000, jail time of up to a year, and probation. Felony charges can lead to lengthy prison terms and fines of up to $10,000. A conviction will result in a permanent criminal record that can damage your ability to obtain employment, rental housing, or educational aid. It can result in being stripped of professional licenses as well.

Legal Guidance from The Law Office of Will Mitchell

Various types of defense strategies may apply to your case but this can only be accomplished with the help of competent and aggressive legal representation. Our firm is here to help you navigate the justice system with proper guidance and an aim towards minimizing the consequences.

Talk to our Austin gun charges defense attorney at (512) 858-8611 today.

Free Initial Consultation

Fill Out this Form to Schedule Today Or Give Us a Call at (512) 858-8611

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from The Law Office of Will Mitchell at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy
  • "Will has saved my life!"
    Will has saved my life! I was moving to Virginia on a probation transfer to be with my fiancé and because of Will I was able to make it happen, he responded to all my calls when I was freaking out and assured me exactly what he could do which made me calm plus he did exactly what he said he would, you don’t understand how much I appreciate you, Will!
    Haden H.
  • "He’s amazing, choose him."
    Will was the BEST choice that I could’ve made after my DWI. I was so scared, it was my first arrest and I felt extremely overwhelmed when it came to finding a lawyer. I met with large corporations thinking maybe with the resources they would be a better option. At the end of every conversation, I felt that Will had my best interest and was very honest. He is also a very friendly guy, I never felt judged, I was more of his friend. At the end of the day, all the warm feels are nice. But, he also got my case COMPLETELY dropped. No probation & no travel restrictions. He changed my life in a way that no Google review can capture. He’s amazing, choose him.
    Alissa H.
  • "I would hire him immediately. Great lawyer, five stars."
    Will Mitchell was friendly, courteous, respectful, and while I always felt welcome to ask questions about my case or even chat about the weather, he never wasted either of our time. He clearly explained the convoluted issues I was facing and how we were going to resolve them, and gave me all the information I needed about the process before I hired him so I could make an informed decision about how I was spending my money. He kept my priorities in mind and worked with me on my financial constraints while being clear on what my money would buy me. But best of all I always got friendly updates on what was happening so I was up to date on my legal status. I hope to never need him again but if I ever find myself in a clusterfuck of unpaid tickets I would hire him immediately. Great lawyer, five stars.
    Damianne
  • "He helped me take care of my case and I could not be happier."
    I had charges filed on me and had no idea what I was going to do. I contacted Will Mitchell’s law office and immediately felt better. Will talked to me on the phone and told me what to expect for the next 4 months. Everything he said was on point. He helped me take care of my case and I could not be happier. I highly recommend Will and his team.
    T.H. on Google
  • "He was very personable."

    I reached out to Will after finding his name through a Google search. I was not looking for DWI consultation but for unpaid tickets and a suspended license issue. He was very personable on the phone, and he listened to me explain what I needed help with. He didn't rush the call or make me feel like another dollar in his pocket. I was able to resolve my issues because of the information Will provided. If needed, Will will be the first lawyer I contact to help me with my driving issues because he was so helpful in this case.

    Former Client
  • "He worked to have the charges against me reduced significantly!"

    Will is great representation. He worked to have the charges against me reduced significantly!

    Randall V.
  • "You are in good hands with Will Mitchell."
    Will Mitchell handled my case swiftly, intelligently and was very diligent about getting it resolved in a professional manner. I was very upfront about the circumstances and what he thought I should expect and I appreciated his no BS approach. Candor is imperative when you are dealing with a potentially life changing situation. I would recommend him and have to everyone I know. You are in good hands with Will Mitchell.
    Ross
  • "I would highly recommend Will as he will fight for you."
    Will got my DWI charge dismissed in lieu of a reduced charge of obstruction of highway passage. I did test over .08 so I chose not to go to trial but there were a few other factors with my case compelling the prosecution to lower my penalties and probation to 15mo; at which time my obstruction charge will also be dismissed. I was able to take care of all my classes, evals, and community service prior to ever seeing the judge so I think that helped my case. Will and Olivia were eager to help me understand what was happening and answered all my calls and emails very promptly. I would highly recommend Will as he will fight for you.
    Todd