Gun Ownership Lawyers in Florida
Understanding Your Rights & Responsibilities
Owning a firearm in Florida comes with both freedoms and responsibilities. While Florida law protects the rights of gun owners, it also sets out strict rules on who may own, possess, and carry firearms. These laws can be confusing, especially with the differences between state and federal requirements. At Katz & Phillips, we help Floridians understand their rights, avoid costly mistakes, and defend themselves if questions of legality arise.
Need advice about your gun rights or representation in a gun-related legal case? Call us at (321) 425-8961 or reach us online to consult a Florida gun ownership attorney. We serve clients in Orlando, Orange County, and across Florida. Hablamos español.
How We Help Floridians with Gun Ownership Issues
Gun laws in Florida are complex and constantly evolving. Misunderstanding the rules around ownership, purchases, or carrying can lead to serious criminal charges, even for law-abiding citizens. Katz & Phillips represents gun owners in every aspect of firearm law, from navigating purchase and ownership requirements to defending clients accused of violations.
As gun owners and active participants in state and national gun rights organizations, our attorneys understand both the law and the realities of responsible firearm ownership. Attorney Phillips is an NRA-certified firearms Instructor and Range Safety Officer, bringing additional insight into how real-world firearm use intersects with Florida’s legal system.
Age Requirements for Firearm Ownership & Purchase
Ownership & Possession
Generally, a minor under 18 may not own or possess a firearm. However, several exceptions to this rule exist, and they are found in Florida Statute 790.22(3). For instance, minors may lawfully possess an unloaded firearm in their home. A minor may also legally possess a loaded firearm while hunting without adult supervision. If the minor is under 16, they must be under adult supervision.
Purchasing Firearms
Since 2018, Florida law has prohibited anyone under 21 from purchasing a firearm (§790.065(13)). This restriction applies to both handguns and long guns. However, it is not illegal for individuals between 18 and 21 to own or possess firearms if obtained lawfully.
Licensing, Registration & Sales
No license required to own: Floridians do not need a permit to purchase or own a firearm. However, a Concealed Weapon and Firearm License (CWFL) is required to lawfully carry a concealed firearm.
No firearm registry: Florida Statute §790.335 makes it illegal for any government entity or individual to maintain a registry of firearm owners.
Purchasing from dealers (FFLs): Firearm dealers must follow federal licensing requirements. Florida law imposes a mandatory three-day waiting period for purchases from licensed dealers, unless the buyer has a valid CWFL (§790.0655).
Private sales: Florida allows private firearms sales between individuals, provided the recipient is legally eligible. Federal law prohibits private firearm transfers between residents of different states (18 U.S.C. 922).
Special Considerations for Gun Owners
Medical marijuana: Even though medical marijuana is legal in Florida, federal law still classifies marijuana as a controlled substance. Federal law prohibits users of controlled substances from possessing or purchasing firearms. This remains a critical issue for Floridians who hold medical marijuana cards.
Firearm storage: While Florida does not mandate firearm storage in most cases, if a minor under 16 is present, the firearm must either be carried on your person, secured in a locked container, or made inaccessible by a trigger lock (§790.174).
Carrying firearms: Open carry is generally prohibited in Florida (§790.053) except during hunting, fishing, or camping activities. Concealed carry requires a CWFL or recognized out-of-state equivalent (§790.01).
We Protect & Defend Florida Gun Owners
At Katz & Phillips, our attorneys are not only gun owners but also skilled in criminal defense and deeply involved in protecting Second Amendment rights. Whether you face a gun-related charge, have questions about your rights, or need guidance on compliance, our team is here to provide trusted legal support backed by decades of experience and active engagement in the gun rights community.
Discuss your legal needs with a Florida gun ownership attorney by contacting us online or calling (321) 425-8961. We offer virtual consultations for your convenience.
Florida’s authority on gun law & self-defense
Our Client Testimonials
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“Mr. Phillips was Always respectful, and genuine to the whole family ! And the Court of Law! He arrived at the courthouse ready, professional and ready to be heard for your rights!”- Peter P.
Discover the complex and confusing gun laws of Florida explained in simple, easy-to-understand chapters. Written by the attorneys at The Firearm Firm, in plain English for everyone to understand, this book is a must-read for every gun owner. If you are going to be armed, you must be educated. Completely revised and updated containing all the newest laws and case decisions including Florida’s NEW permitless carry law, the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen. Learn what you need to know to stay legal. You are armed, now get educated with Florida Gun Law: Armed and Educated.
