DeSantis Legalizes Concealed Carry Without Permits

Without much fanfare, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation on April 3 to legalize the concealed carry of a firearm without a permit. The bill signing occurred in DeSantis’s office with a sparse audience consisting only of the bill’s sponsors, legislative leaders, and firearm rights advocates.

Florida is now the 26th state to legalize carrying a concealed firearm without a permit, meaning that no one is required to carry a special permit or undergo special training to carry a concealed firearm.

It’s expected, however, that the usual restrictions on where firearms may be present will remain. For example, it’s unlawful in Florida to carry a concealed firearm in a government building, such as a public library, public school, or courthouse. It will also continue to be illegal for a convicted felon to carry a firearm unless their right to do so has been restored.

Permitless Concealed Carry Was Previously a Third-Degree Felony

Until DeSantis signed legislation in early April 2023, it was a third-degree felony to carry a concealed firearm without the proper permit. A conviction for this former offense could result in up to five years in jail and up to $5,000 in fines, making it a serious weapons charge that could severely upend someone’s life.

When DeSantis’s law takes effect on July 1, these same individuals likely will face no legal consequences for carrying a concealed firearm in public as long as they are not in a prohibited area.

Were You Charged with a Gun Crime? We Can Help.

If you are facing carrying concealed firearm charges in Florida, your case could be reviewed for dismissal based on DeSantis’s new law. Florida’s new law means you don’t have to have any special permit or training to conceal a firearm where guns are otherwise allowed in public.

For more information about fighting your charges, it’s best to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our criminal defense attorney at Hubbs Law Firm is a former prosecutor who has handled more than 10,000 criminal cases during his career. Our firm has the experience necessary to try to help you secure a better outcome.

Learn more about how we can help during a free consultation. Contact us today to learn more.