Oklahoma allows most adults to carry a handgun without a license, but gun charges are still common and serious. Carrying in a prohibited place, possessing a firearm after a felony, pointing a weapon at someone, or using one during another offense can all lead to felony charges, prison time, and the loss of your right to own firearms. Many of these cases turn on self-defense, possession, and how the police found the weapon.
Key Takeaways
- Oklahoma has permitless carry for most adults 21 and older, but prohibited places and prohibited persons still apply.
- Felon in possession of a firearm is a felony under state law and can also be charged federally.
- Pointing a firearm at another person is a felony punishable by 1 to 10 years.
- Assault with a dangerous weapon carries up to 10 years in prison.
- Oklahoma's Stand Your Ground law can provide immunity from prosecution when force is justified.
Weapons Charges We Defend
- Unlawful carry in prohibited places or by prohibited persons. See unlawful carry in Oklahoma.
- Felon in possession of a firearm under 21 O.S. § 1283. See felon in possession of a firearm.
- Pointing a firearm, misdemeanor or felony. See pointing a firearm in Oklahoma.
- Assault with a dangerous weapon under 21 O.S. § 645. See assault with a dangerous weapon.
- Using a firearm while committing a felony, which adds a separate charge with additional prison time.
- Reckless conduct with a firearm and unlawful discharge.
Our firm does not handle homicide cases.
Common Defenses in Gun Cases
- Self-defense. Oklahoma law allows reasonable force, including deadly force in some situations, and provides immunity when force is justified. See Stand Your Ground in Oklahoma.
- Possession. A gun found in a shared car or home is not automatically yours. The State must prove knowing possession.
- Unlawful search. If police found the weapon through an illegal stop or search, it may be suppressed.
- Status issues. Whether a prior record actually makes you a prohibited person is often more complicated than it looks.
Your Gun Rights After a Charge
A felony conviction generally ends your right to possess firearms under both Oklahoma and federal law. Some misdemeanors, including certain domestic violence offenses, also trigger federal prohibitions. Protecting your rights starts with how the case is charged and resolved.
Courts in Oklahoma City and Oklahoma County
Felony weapons charges are filed in Oklahoma County District Court, while some misdemeanors may be filed in Oklahoma City Municipal Court. Federal firearm cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma. Our office on East Memorial Road serves clients across Oklahoma City and Edmond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a permit to carry a gun in Oklahoma?
Most adults 21 and older, and military members 18 and older, can carry without a license, but they must not be prohibited persons and must stay out of prohibited places.
Is felon in possession of a firearm a felony in Oklahoma?
Yes. It is a felony under state law and can also be prosecuted federally, where penalties can be significantly higher.
Can I lose my gun rights over a misdemeanor?
Some misdemeanors, particularly certain domestic violence convictions, can trigger a federal firearms prohibition.
Do you handle murder cases?
No. Our firm defends gun and weapons charges but does not handle homicide cases.
Talk to an Oklahoma City Gun Charges Lawyer
Weapons charges can bring prison time and the permanent loss of your gun rights. Call (405) 605-8380 or request a free consultation to have your case reviewed.
This article is general information about Oklahoma law, not legal advice. Laws change, and every case depends on its facts. Contact an attorney about your specific situation.
