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© 2023 by Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC.
Atascosa Office:
216 N Bryant St
Pleasanton, Texas 78064
FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR
PERSONALIZED ATTENTION TO YOUR CASE
NO HOURLY RATES, ALWAYS A FLAT FEE
CLIENT CENTERED APPROACH TO YOUR CASE
BOARD CERTIFIED IN CRIMINAL LAW
OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN CRIMINAL LAW
WHY HIRE THORNTON CRIMINAL DEFENSE?
Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer. With his background as a former Chief Prosecutor, he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and is able to provide comprehensive and effective representation to his clients. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment in court, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Brad Thornton is dedicated to helping his clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether it is in San Antonio or elsewhere in South Texas. He recognizes the stress and anxiety that can come with being accused of a crime, and approaches his clients with compassion while keeping them informed at every step of the process. His knowledge and experience make him a strong advocate for his clients.
Unlawfully Carrying Weapons
Texas Penal Code § 46.02 UNL CARRYING WEAPON OR UCW-HANDGUN
Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon Attorney in San Antonio, Texas
In Texas, it can be illegal to carry a handgun or other weapons, unless you are specifically authorized to do so by law. There are several offenses that relate to carrying a weapon unlawfully in Texas, including:
Unlawful carrying of a handgun by a license holder: It is generally illegal for a person who holds a license to carry a handgun to carry the handgun in a place where it is prohibited by law, such as a school or a government building.
Unlawful carrying of a weapon: It is generally illegal for a person to carry a weapon, including a handgun, on or about their person, unless they are on their own property or inside their own motor vehicle, are carrying the weapon in a holster, or have a license to carry the weapon.
Unlawful possession of a firearm: It is generally illegal for a person to possess a firearm if they have been convicted of a felony or if they are subject to certain types of court orders.
These offenses can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case and the defendant's criminal history. If you are charged with one of these offenses, it is important to speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Who can Open Carry in Texas
This law is governed by Sections 46.02 and 46.04 of the Texas Penal code and regulate who can openly carry a firearm in Texas. If you do not have a license to carry in Texas, you may still openly carry a handgun in a holster if the person:
Is at least 21 years of age,
Does not have a have a prior felony conviction listed in Texas Penal Code Section 46.04,
Is not subject to an active protective order listed in Texas Penal Code Section 46.04(c),
Is not restricted from possessing a firearm under federal law as described in 18 United States Code Section 922(g), and
Is not intoxicated.
When is it Illegal to Display a Handgun in a Public Place
If you meet the requirements above to openly carry in a public place, the handgun must still be holstered while it is visible in a public place.
The law in Texas regarding the offense of Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon is found in Section 46.02 of the Texas Penal Code and lists six different ways to violate the law.
(a-1) A person commits an offense if the person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carries on or about his or her person a handgun in a motor vehicle or watercraft that is owned by the person or under the person's control at any time in which:
(1) the handgun is in plain view, unless the person is 21 years of age or older or is licensed to carry a handgun under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, and the handgun is carried in a holster; or
(2) the person is:
(A) engaged in criminal activity, other than a Class C misdemeanor that is a violation of a law or ordinance regulating traffic or boating; or
(B) prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.
(a-4) A person commits an offense if the person:
(1) intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carries on or about his or her person a location-restricted knife;
(2) is younger than 18 years of age at the time of the offense; and
(3) is not:
(A) on the person's own premises or premises under the person's control;
(B) inside of or directly en route to a motor vehicle or watercraft that is owned by the person or under the person's control; or
(C) under the direct supervision of a parent or legal guardian of the person.
(a-5) A person commits an offense if the person carries a handgun and intentionally displays the handgun in plain view of another person in a public place. It is an exception to the application of this subsection that the handgun was partially or wholly visible but was carried in a holster.
(a-6) A person commits an offense if the person:
(1) carries a handgun while the person is intoxicated; and
(2) is not:
(A) on the person's own property or property under the person's control or on private property with the consent of the owner of the property; or
(B) inside of or directly en route to a motor vehicle or watercraft:
(i) that is owned by the person or under the person's control; or
(ii) with the consent of the owner or operator of the vehicle or watercraft.
(a-7) A person commits an offense if the person:
(1) intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carries on or about his or her person a handgun;
(2) is not:
(A) on the person's own premises or premises under the person's control; or
(B) inside of or directly en route to a motor vehicle or watercraft that is owned by the person or under the person's control; and
(3) at the time of the offense, was prohibited from possessing a firearm under Section 46.04(a), (b), or (c).
Penalties for Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon in Texas
Under Texas Penal Code Section 46.02, the penalties for unlawfully carrying a weapon depend on the specific offense and the defendant's criminal history. Some possible penalties for unlawful carrying of a weapon in Texas are:
Unlawful carrying of a handgun by a license holder: This offense is generally a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
Unlawful carrying of a weapon: This offense is generally a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
Unlawful possession of a firearm: This offense is generally a third-degree felony, which is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Punishment Ranges
Level of Offense
Potential Incarceration
Potential Fine
First-degree Felony
Second-degree Felony
Third-degree Felony
State Jail Felony
Class A Misdemeanor
Class B Misdemeanor
2 - 10 years in prison
180 days - 2 years in jail
Up to 1 year in jail
Up to 180 days in jail
2 - 20 years in prison
5 - 99 years in prison
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $4,000
Up to $2,000
Attorney Brad Thornton
If you have been charged with unlawfully carrying a weapon in San Antonio, Texas, it is important to speak with a qualified and experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Board-certified criminal defense attorney Brad Thornton is an excellent choice for anyone facing weapons charges in San Antonio. Here are a few reasons why you should consider calling him for a free consultation:
Experience: Brad Thornton has more than 25 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney and has successfully represented countless clients charged with unlawfully carrying a weapon and other crimes. As a former chief prosecutor, he has a deep understanding of the criminal justice system and how to effectively defend against weapons charges.
Knowledge of the law: Brad Thornton is an expert in criminal law and has a thorough understanding of the laws and defenses related to unlawfully carrying a weapon. He will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help you understand your options.
Reputation: Brad Thornton has an excellent reputation as a criminal defense attorney in San Antonio. He is known for his integrity, professionalism, and commitment to his clients. When you work with Brad Thornton, you can trust that you are getting the best representation possible.
Free consultation: Brad Thornton offers a free consultation to anyone who has been charged with unlawfully carrying a weapon in San Antonio. This is a great opportunity to get to know him and discuss your case without any financial commitment.
If you have been charged with unlawfully carrying a weapon in San Antonio, Texas, it is important to take immediate action to protect your rights and your freedom. Call board-certified criminal defense attorney Brad Thornton for a free consultation and find out how he can help you.
FORMER PROSECUTOR
San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton has spent years in court rooms fighting for justice. As a prosecutor, Brad was a leader on cases ranging from marijuana to murder from arrest to appeal. Who better to fight for your rights than someone who knows the "other side" and has tried the toughest of cases out there. Put his experience and knowledge to work for you.
David I.
Seguin, Texas
Brad was great from the moment he looked at my case. Despite his busy schedule, he made himself easily available, walked us through every detail with care and professionalism, and worked out a great deal with the prosecutor that was much better than any outcome we could have imagined. I don’t plan on needing his assistance again, but if I’m ever unfortunate enough to find myself in another legal bind, Brad will be my first call.
Brian F.
San Antonio, Texas
I have had the opportunity to know Brad both personally and professionally for a while now. As a fellow attorney, I am consistently impressed by his passion and innovative approach to legal issues. He is exceptionally intelligent and is always willing to go above and beyond for his clients. When I refer clients to Brad, I have full confidence that they will receive top-quality representation.
Elaine B.
San Antonio, Texas
Brad is an amazing attorney, and I highly recommend him! He has deep knowledge and understanding how to navigate the law to support his clients. He has a way with people, and truly has his focus on client care and supporting them, during a time that’s usually stressful for clients. He was able to support in getting my case dismissed in less than 2 months and was attentive and personable during the whole process. You have a choice when deciding who’s going to represent you, and to have an attorney that genuinely cares for his clients should be an expectation anyone should set. Brad will meet that expectation 110%!
Kevin E.
Jourdanton, Texas
[Brad] made the process very easy for me, handling everything within a month, with a motion to dismiss all cases against me. I only had to attend court once! The portal he uses to make sure you are aware of everything going on in your case is awesome, I didn’t even have to worry everything got downloaded to the portal with email notifications. I would never use another attorney to represent me, he is the best at what he does.