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When is it illegal to possess a firearm in Connecticut?

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The subject of gun control is certainly a divisive one across the county. Here in Connecticut, where the Sandy Hook murders took place in December of 2014, it is a particularly sensitive one.

No matter how you feel about the subject, what's important to know is that in Connecticut, there are criminal ramifications in some cases for possessing a firearm, ammunition or even an electronic defense weapon. Those who break the law can be charged with a felony.

An "electronic defense weapon" under Connecticut law is one that carries an electronic current or impulse that is "capable of immobilizing a person temporarily," but not capable of "inflicting death or serious physical injury." A stun gun would be an example of such a weapon.

Possession of any of these items is against the law if a person has been prohibited from possessing a firearm or has been:

-- Convicted of a felony

-- Found not guilty "by reason of mental disease" and discharged within the past 20 years from custody

-- Convicted of a "serious juvenile offense"

-- Subject to a restraining order or order of protection

These are just some of the instances where possession of such a weapon or ammunition would be illegal.

Those who are convicted of possessing a firearm, electronic defense weapon or ammunition illegally in Connecticut may be sentenced to prison and be fined.

If you have any doubt about whether it is legal for you to own or possess a weapon, it's best to check with a Connecticut criminal defense attorney. You don't want to risk facing legal repercussions unnecessarily.

Source: WomensLaw.org, "53a-217. Criminal possession of a firearm or electronic defense weapon: Class D felony," accessed Oct. 27, 2015

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