Charged with Carrying A Concealed Without Authorization in Rockingham County? We’ll Fight to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been charged with Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without Authorization in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, it’s critical to act quickly. This kind of charge can have a lasting impact on your criminal record, your right to possess firearms, and your personal freedom. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we provide committed, results-focused criminal defense with a deep understanding of New Hampshire’s firearm laws and criminal procedures. Our team is made up of highly skilled trial attorneys, including a former prosecutor, giving us a distinct advantage when navigating the legal system and advocating for you.
Why Choose Our Rockingham Criminal Defense Attorney Team?
Facing a weapons charge in New Hampshire—like carrying a concealed weapon without proper authorization—can be overwhelming. Our firm offers strategic, personalized defense backed by years of experience and prosecutorial insight. We know how the state builds its case, and we craft precise counterstrategies to stay ahead. You’ll work directly with a dedicated Rockingham County defense attorney who treats your case with the attention it deserves.
Understanding the Charge: Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without Authorization
New Hampshire generally permits constitutional carry, which means individuals can carry firearms without a license. However, that doesn’t mean all concealed carry is legal. Under RSA 159:6, there are still limitations. Carrying in prohibited locations, such as courthouses (as defined under RSA 159:19), can lead to criminal charges, even if the person otherwise legally owns the firearm.
Facing a concealed weapon charge often comes down to context. Did you knowingly carry into a restricted area? Were you lawfully permitted to carry at all? Was the weapon properly stored and handled? Our job is to explore every legal angle that may reduce or dismiss your charge altogether.
Our Strategic Approach to Your Defense
From day one, we thoroughly review your case: how the weapon was found, whether procedures were followed, and if your rights were violated. We challenge illegal searches, push to suppress evidence, and assess if the charges truly meet the legal standard. Whether through negotiation or trial, we build a strong defense and offer honest, strategic advice tailored to your future.
What Sets Us Apart in Rockingham County Criminal Defense
What distinguishes our firm is not just our aggressive advocacy, but the thought and detail behind it. We understand the unique legal environment in Rockingham County, and our experience in local courts means we’re familiar with how cases are handled by prosecutors and judges in each jurisdiction.
We focus exclusively on criminal defense. Our work isn’t diluted by unrelated areas of law, which allows us to maintain sharp, up-to-date knowledge in handling weapons cases, white-collar crimes, drug offenses, and other criminal charges throughout New Hampshire.
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, every case receives individualized attention. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all defenses. We believe in smart, relentless advocacy grounded in your legal rights.
Protect Your Rights—Start With a Strategy
Facing criminal charges involving weapons is never a minor issue. Even if you believe your actions were lawful, the law can be complex, and honest mistakes may still lead to prosecution. You don’t need to face the system alone.
Contact us now to set up a strategy session with a dedicated Rockingham criminal defense attorney who knows how to defend your rights and your future. We’ll walk you through your options, explain the law in plain terms, and build a strategy that gives you the strongest possible defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as “authorization” for concealed carry in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire law allows most people to carry concealed without a license, but some locations, like court facilities, remain off-limits. Authorization refers to whether the location, method of carry, and weapon type fall within state law boundaries.
Can I still be charged if I was open-carrying the firearm?
Typically, open carry is allowed in New Hampshire. However, the specific facts of your case matter. If law enforcement believes the weapon was concealed without legal justification, they may still file charges depending on the location and conduct.
What are the penalties for carrying a concealed weapon without authorization?
Penalties may vary. A first offense could be treated as a misdemeanor, while repeated violations or carrying in high-security areas may lead to more serious consequences, including jail time or a felony charge.
Does New Hampshire still issue pistol/revolver licenses?
Yes. While not required for in-state carry, obtaining a pistol/revolver license can still be beneficial, especially for travel to states that recognize New Hampshire’s license under reciprocity agreements.
Can police seize my weapon without a warrant?
Law enforcement must follow constitutional protections when seizing property. If the firearm was taken during an illegal stop or search, we may be able to challenge the seizure and have the weapon excluded from evidence.