Constitutional Rights to Bear Arms
“A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” – 2nd Amendment, U.S. Constitution.
“The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.” – Article I, Section 22, Rhode Island Constitution.
These rights may seem straightforward, but they are more complex in practice—especially in Rhode Island. You may not carry a firearm anywhere in the state except on your own property or at your business (if you own it) without a permit issued by a chief of police or the Attorney General. Carrying without a permit is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
Firearm Charges and Rhode Island Gun Laws
Prosecutors can bring a variety of charges involving the use or possession of firearms. Many of these charges carry mandatory prison sentences. Some sentences must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed. Rhode Island even has a specialized court—the Superior Court Gun Court—dedicated to firearm-related offenses. This court handles some of the busiest calendars in the state and imposes some of the stiffest criminal penalties due to the harsh consequences associated with Gun charges crimes.
Experienced Gun Crime Defense at Inman & Tourgee
Attorney Lauren V. Iannelli is an experienced criminal defense attorney with years of practice in Gun Court and as a legal instructor for firearm courses. He understands Rhode Island’s strict gun laws and the challenges you will face if charged with a firearm-related offense. With 13 years of criminal law practice, Attorney Calenda has handled cases from both sides, having served as the state prosecutor in charge of Gun Court during his time at the Attorney General’s Office. He also works with Gun charges-rights groups across Rhode Island due to his expertise. Call our office today for a free consultation and ensure your right to keep and bear arms is protected.