NJ Handgun Permit Guidelines To Be Updated

Handgun permit processing in New Jersey is undergoing updates. On April 8, 2016, Acting Attorney General Robert Loughy issued new directives regarding uniformity in processing designed to limit instances of extreme delay and other problems. N.J.S.A. 2C:58-3 sets forth the application procedures and forms which are to be utilized by permit issuing bodies and no deviation is permitted. Agencies are prohibited from applying personal views regarding civilian firearms regulation, requiring additional forms, requiring additional information from applicants or otherwise deviating from the standards set forth. Gun permit issuing agencies have a 30 day time period to review applications under N.J.S.A. 2C:58-3(f), unless the applicant's life is in specific danger in which case the gun permit application review period is decreased to 14 days. Disqualification occurs upon conviction of an indictable crime or a disorderly persons domestic violence offense. Interestingly, in spite of these steps toward uniformity, there is also a very broad category for disqualification which allows issuing bodies discretion to deny a handgun permit or firearms purchaser identification card if the "issuance would not be in the interest of the public health, safety or welfare." N.J.S.A. 2C:58-3(c)(5). The New Jersey State Police are charged with the drafting of uniform investigation standards. In addition, there are to be updates to Firearms Transport Guidelines. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2C:39-6, transport of a firearm that is unloaded and secured in a fastened case or gun box or inside of a locked trunk is permitted directly between a home and business, place of purchase and home or business, directly from a home or business to a range or place of hunting, between a home or business and a gun repair shop or licensed gun dealer and between residences when moving. There are also undefined "reasonably necessary" deviations permitted in the route of transportation including the purchase of fuel, food, beverages, medication and other supplies; use of a restroom, pickup or discharge of passengers, emergencies, detours and other reasons. The reasonability of the deviation and lawfulness of transport is subject to the judgment of the officer encountering an individual undertaking transport. If you have been denied the right to a carry permit after meeting all criteria to obtain one you should seek an experienced attorney to assist you in your matter. If you are caught illegally carrying firearms the penalties can be severe making it well worth the effort to seek a permit to carry legally. For more information about gun or weapon possession, possession of weapons during a drug related offense, armed robbery, possession of a handgun without a permit, use or possession of a gun in the commission of a crime, illegal weapons, unlawful possession of a weapon or possession of a weapon while on parole or probation visit DarlingFirm.com. This blog is for informational purposes and not intended to replace the advice of an attorney.