Our office has received many questions in regards to carrying a concealed weapon, specifically a firearm. In this blog post we will attempt to go over the basics of the concealed carry law in Wisconsin.
Who Can Carry Concealed?
It is legal for some people to carry a concealed weapon, due to the State of Wisconsin passing Act 35 in 2011. It is equally important to point out that not everyone is legally able to carry a concealed weapon. To become eligible to carry a concealed weapon, you must fill out, submit, and receive your concealed carry license from the Department of Justice (DOJ). Applications are available on the DOJ’s website, where they can be printed off for free. Approval of the application can take several weeks, and you are not eligible to carry a concealed weapon until you have been approved to do so and receive your license.
What is a Concealed Weapon?
When people hear the term concealed weapon, the most frequent image that is conjured up is a handgun. But what does concealed weapon actually mean? This can be answered in two parts. A concealed weapon is not limited to a firearm. The term, as well as a concealed carry permit, also applies to a knife, stun gun, or asp. The term concealed is also an important factor. Concealed does not necessarily mean completely hidden from view, such as a handgun in an inner pants holster, but it can also mean partly hidden from view. Some examples of this would be a firearm in a holster that is partly covered by a shirt or a jacket, or a knife that is clipped to the inside of a pocket. While these items may be partly in view, depending on the situation, these could be considered a concealed weapon. If you are unsure of the definition, it is better to error on the side of caution until you can find out the answer.
Concealed Carry Everywhere?
After receiving a concealed carry permit, you are responsible for knowing when and where you are able to carry concealed. A permit does not entail you to carry a concealed weapon everywhere or in every situation. For example, you are not able to carry concealed in government buildings, schools, city transportation, or establishments that have “no weapons permitted” signs posted. In addition to this, you are not able to carry a firearm concealed, or otherwise, if you are under the influence of intoxicants.
If you have questions about carrying concealed, or are facing charges in regards to carrying a concealed weapon, call the Wisconsin criminal defense and trial lawyers at Nicholson & Gansner.
