OPEN CARRY

MISSISSIPPI’S OPEN CARRY LAW

What rights do I have in Mississippi to own a firearm?

As a Mississippian, you have the right to own and use a weapon or firearm to protect yourself, your family, and your property, as well as the right to use guns for hunting purposes.

Where does my right to own a firearm originate?

The right to own and use firearms is a fundamental right under Mississippi law, and is derived from two primary sources. First is the Second Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America which says: “A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed”. Second, is the Mississippi Constitution which specifically says that the: “right of every citizen to keep and bear arms in defense of his home, person, or property, or in aid of the civil power when legally summoned, shall not be called in question, but the legislature may regulate or forbid the carrying of concealed weapons”. Art. III, § 12.

May I openly carry a firearm in Mississippi?

Effective July 1, 2013, it is legal for a person not otherwise prohibited from owning a deadly weapon to openly carry such a weapon without a permit. With the exception of educational property, there are no express statutory limitations. Open carry rights apply equally to shotguns, rifles and handguns.

Private property owners can prohibit the carrying of firearms. Public property owners (such as courthouses and other government buildings) may also prohibit open carry under certain circumstances.

Contact an Experienced Firearms Defense Lawyer

If you have been arrested and charged with a firearm or weapon violation, it is important to hire the right lawyers. Failure to do so can lead to the loss of your freedom, heavy fines and loss of your gun rights.

To discuss how our law firm can help you, or to set up a confidential consultation, contact us online or call our office locally at 601-957-3101

[photo by Lucio Eastman  Attribution 2.0 Generic]