How Strict Are Illinois Gun Laws?
Illinois has some of the strictest gun laws in the country. These laws have been enacted in an attempt to regulate who has access to firearms and to ensure they are kept and used responsibly. Unfortunately, extensive research has shown that minority men have been disproportionately targeted by these strict gun laws. More importantly, these laws target individuals who are in illegal possession of guns, not those individuals who eventually carry out violent gun offenses. In fact, a significant number of shootings where a person was shot or killed go unsolved. Nonetheless, it is important to know the consequences of being in illegal possession of a gun.
Chicago, Illinois Gun Laws
The gun law in Chicago, IL, requires that all firearm owners obtain a FOID (Firearm Owner’s Identification Card) and a CCL (Conceal Carry License). Purpose. A FOID card allows a person to legally purchase a weapon and be in possession of the weapon. The FOID card does not allow a person to have the weapon concealed on their person. If a weapon is being transported, it must not be loaded nor easily accessible to the owner within the vehicle. A person with a valid FOID card can still be charged with a criminal record if a weapon is not being properly stored.
Chicago, Illinois also has a ban on assault rifles (AR), high-capacity magazines, and silencers. Additionally, the State requires background checks for all firearm purchases, including those made at gun shows. If a person is caught with these prohibited weapons, there can be drastic consequences.
Are Chicago Gun Laws Effective?
The short answer is absolutely not. Chicago's gun laws are enforced by the Chicago Police Department, and violations can result in significant fines and criminal charges. However, some gun rights advocates argue that these laws unfairly target law-abiding gun owners and do little to prevent gun violence. Additionally, the people who are caught with illegal weapons generally have never been convicted of a violent crime. The laws target non violent gun offenders when the purpose of the laws is to stop gun violence. This “war on crime” mentality has been proven ineffective for decades yet there has been no change. It is true that Chicago has one of the highest rates of gun violence in the country. In 2020, there were over 4,000 shooting incidents in the city, resulting in over 750 deaths. The city has been struggling with gun violence for decades, and the root causes of this issue are complex and multifaceted. The answer to this issue is not as simple as it seems. Drug use, poverty, familiar ties, lack of resources, education, mental health issues, are all factors that go ignored when it comes to gun violence in the city. These are the issues that need be addressed to finally reach peace in the City of Chicago.
Criminal Defense Lawyers in Illinois
Overall, the gun laws in Chicago, IL, are strict, and it's essential to understand the State regulations to avoid legal trouble.If you or a loved one are facing gun charges in Chicago, don't hesitate to contact a criminal defense lawyer for help. The right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. A Chicago gun crime lawyer can help you understand your rights and provide the legal representation you need to fight your charges.
Attorney Nate Bernard has extensive experience working with defendants charged with a gun crime. Nate’s thorough understanding of local and state laws makes him the right person to trust when you need legal representation in your gun crimes case. Contact Nate Bernard Law to protect your rights and get started on your defense.