Chicago is notoriously strict when it comes to gun control laws, and those laws even extend to the trunk of your car. In fact, all of Illinois—including Schaumburg, Skokie and Rolling Meadows—falls under those very stringent regulations.

Transportation of Weapons in Illinois Criminal Code

The way you transport your firearm matters. Whether you have a hunting rifle, a handgun or any other type of weapon (such as a bow and arrow, for example), transporting it the wrong way may be a Class 4 felony.

The Illinois Criminal Code addresses transportation of firearms, as well. You can only transport a firearm from one place to another if you have a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification Card, a Chicago Firearm Permit (in the city) and a firearm registration certificate. You also need to make sure that your weapon is:

  • Broken down into a non-functioning state
  • Not immediately accessible
  • Unloaded and in a firearm case

Transporting a Firearm Illegally: When is it a Class 4 Felony in Chicago?

A judge could find you guilty of a Class 4 felony if you were caught transporting a gun that was uncased, loaded and accessible. Even if your uncased gun wasn’t loaded, but the ammunition was immediately accessible, you could be found guilty.

You may also be guilty if:

  • You don’t have a valid FOID card
  • You were adjudicated of a felony when you were a juvenile
  • You were caught with a gun while engaged in a misdemeanor involving marijuana or controlled substances
  • You are a gang member
  • You’ve had an order of protection against you within the past two years
  • You were involved in a violent misdemeanor
  • You’re under 21

What to Do if You’re Caught Illegally Transporting a Firearm in Chicago

Because Illinois has very strict laws when it comes to firearms, most people find that it’s best to call a Chicago gun law attorney who will evaluate their case and help find the best possible outcome. Perhaps the police were guilty of an unlawful search, or maybe your gun or ammunition was out of reach; there are several ways your lawyer can defend you against weapons charges in Chicago and the state of Illinois.

CategoryWeapons Charges
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