It is important to understand New Jersey’s strict gun laws in order to be a responsible firearm owner. If you have questions about the process of obtaining a firearm, it is in your best interest to contact our skilled New Jersey criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of George J. Mardinly to learn more.
Am I entitled to owning a firearm in New Jersey?
New Jersey takes their gun laws very seriously compared to other states in the U.S. In fact, New Jersey has a list of categories that can prohibit an individual from purchasing a gun. Those who fit into one or more of the following categories are not eligible to purchase a gun:
- Minors under the age of 18
- Those convicted of aggravated assault, arson, burglary, extortion, homicide, kidnapping, robbery, sexual assault
- Those convicted of the unlawful use, possession, or sale of controlled dangerous substances.
- Those committed for mental disorder unless there is a satisfactory proof that they no longer suffer from a disorder that disables their ability to properly handle a firearm
- Those who have physical defects that make them unsafe to handle a firearm
- Those who are drug dependent
What documents must I show in order to apply for a gun permit in New Jersey?
In order to purchase a firearm, you must obtain a gun permit first. A permit requires several personal documents including:
- Two character references
- A passport
- An executed Consent for Mental Health Records Search
- Your driver’s license
Additionally, it is important to note that even if you have been approved for a permit to purchase a firearm, that does not grant you permission to legally carry your gun. In New Jersey, there is a separate permit to carry a gun, known as a license to carry. A license to carry involves many complexities and is difficult to obtain.
Once I have a permit, how do I purchase my gun?
After you have obtained a purchasing permit for a firearm, you are able to buy a gun in New Jersey. A person must purchase a gun from a licensed dealer or resident of the state. Most handgun transfers are held by the New Jersey State Firearms Investigation Unit unless it was a firearm willed to a transferee or brought into the state by a new resident.
If you have questions regarding the application process to obtain a firearm purchasing permit, or you have already received a permit and are looking to purchase, do not hesitate to contact The Law Offices of George J. Mardinly to ensure you are going through this process correctly.
Contact our experienced Red Bank firm
Our firm proudly represents clients in New Jersey who are faced with matters of family law, criminal defense, business law, real estate law, or estate planning. If you require strong and dedicated representation for any of your legal matters, please do not hesitate to contact The Law Offices of George J. Mardinly to schedule a consultation.