HOW DO YOU LEGALLY CARRY A CONCEALED WEAPON IN MICHIGAN?

by Van Den Heuvel Law Office

Anyone who wishes to carry a concealed weapon in Michigan needs to be aware of the legal requirements. Navigating these laws can be complex, and a misstep could lead to severe legal consequences. At the Van Den Heuvel Law Office, we are here to guide you through this intricate process. If you face a weapons charge, contact our office right away for a consultation.

The Application Process for a Concealed Carry License

In Michigan, the law prohibits anyone from carrying a concealed handgun without a license except on their own property or place of business. To obtain this license, applicants must meet specific qualifications.

The process begins with submitting an application to the county clerk’s office. Since December 1, 2015, the responsibility of issuing concealed handgun licenses shifted from county-based “Concealed Weapon Licensing Boards” to county clerks. As part of the application process, a comprehensive background check is conducted by the Department of State Police through both the state law enforcement information network and the FBI’s NICS database. This background investigation ensures that the applicant meets all statutory qualifications.

Legal Requirements for Concealed Carry in Michigan

To qualify for a concealed handgun license in Michigan, applicants must meet several criteria. They must be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted alien, and a Michigan resident for at least six months. Applicants must also complete a state-certified handgun safety training course.

Furthermore, there are restrictions regarding an applicant’s legal and mental health history. For instance, they should not be subject to specific court orders, prohibited from possessing a firearm under Michigan law, or have a felony conviction or pending charges. They also should not have been dishonorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces, convicted of certain misdemeanors within a specified period, or have a diagnosed mental illness that presents a danger to themselves or others.

Moreover, the applicant must not be under a court order of legal incapacity and must possess a valid state-issued driver’s license or personal identification card. A federal NICS check will also confirm that the applicant is not federally prohibited from possessing or transporting a firearm.

Firearm Safety Training

Michigan law mandates that all applicants for a concealed handgun license complete a handgun safety training course certified by the state of Michigan or a national or state firearms training organization. This requirement ensures that license holders are knowledgeable about safe firearm handling and laws regarding the lawful use and ownership of firearms.

Contact a Defense Attorney

Understanding and complying with Michigan’s concealed carry laws is vital for ensuring your right to self-defense while avoiding potential legal pitfalls. It requires thorough knowledge and diligent adherence to the application process and legal requirements, including firearm safety training.

At Van Den Heuvel Law Office, we are committed to helping individuals navigate these complex laws. If you are considering applying for a concealed carry license in Michigan or if you face weapons charges, we encourage you to seek legal counsel. Our experienced attorneys stand ready to provide aggressive representation and guide you through every step of the process, protecting your rights and securing your future.

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