Possession of Firearms in New Hampshire

Americans have a Constitutional right to possession of firearms in New Hampshire. However, there are still legal requirements that gun owners need to comply with, or they can find themselves in legal jeopardy. If you are facing charges related to the possession of firearms, you should talk to an experienced gun lawyer who understands the relevant laws of New Hampshire inside and out.

New Hampshire Gun Laws

Even though gun laws in New Hampshire are less stringent than they used to be, failing to follow the rules related to possession of firearms can still cause major headaches.

Some of the most common gun-related offenses are:

  • Illegal possession of a firearm
  • Possession or use of a gun during the commission of a crime
  • Owning a weapon that has been banned
  • Illegally transporting a firearm across state lines

What is Important to Note about Gun Usage?

When firearms are used in the commission of a crime, the presence of the gun results in a substantially increased punishment. There are no state licensing requirements in New Hampshire for the purchase of any rifle, shotgun or handgun. However, it is unlawful to sell any firearm to any convicted felon. It is unlawful to sell or give a handgun to a minor, unless the gift is from a parent, guardian or executor to a child, ward, or heir. There are no state licensing requirements for the possession of rifles, shotguns, or handguns. It is unlawful for any person who has been convicted of a felony to own to be in possession of firearms in New Hampshire. Individuals who are the subject of a court protective order can be required to surrender all firearms and ammunition.

Concealed Carry Law

In early 2017, the New Hampshire legislature passed a law that made it legal to carry a concealed, loaded gun without a license. The governor signed the bill eliminating the concealed-carry license requirement for pistol and revolver owners. Under the new law, anyone who can legally possess a gun under state and federal law can carry it concealed in a purse, car, or briefcase without a license.

In 2016, the New Hampshire Supreme Court, in a case called Bach v. New Hampshire Dept. of Safety, threw out a rule imposed by concealed carry permit issuing authorities that had required non-residents to have a permit to carry issued by the state in which they resided.

Dealing with Criminal Charges

Anyone facing criminal charges is entitled to the protections of the Bill of Rights, which includes specific limits on what the federal government can do. Every American is presumed innocent until found guilty in a court of law. The prosecution must prove its case “beyond a reasonable doubt.” And the Second Amendment to the Constitution specifically protects a law-abiding citizen’s right to possess a firearm to defend their home and family.

A lawyer who knows the ins and outs of gun law will be able to put together a team of private investigators and professional experts to investigate the case, consider the prosecution’s evidence, and make an informed decision about whether to fight or to seek a plea arrangement. No one should be punished for exercising their Constitutional right to possession of firearms in New Hampshire. Experienced attorneys will aggressively challenge any charges you might be facing, and will do everything they can to obtain a positive outcome for you.