Conceal and Carry FAQ

We are the law firm for gun owners in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and Paw Paw. Our firm is home to one of three attorneys who are endorsed by the Michigan Council of Professional Investigators, and the NRA frequently refers its members to CCW and CPL criminal defense cases.

Carrying a Concealed Weapon in Kalamazoo or Grand Rapids, Michigan

Carrying a concealed weapon is a right that comes with great responsibility. It is important to understand your rights and obligations as someone with a CCW permit. Below we have provided some answers to frequently asked questions about CCW issues.

1. Are Tasers and Stun Guns Legal in Michigan?

They are generally illegal as per The Michigan Penal Code Act 328 of 1931. MCL 750.224a — Portable device or weapon directing electrical current, impulse, wave or beam; sale or possession prohibited; testing. (1) A person shall not sell, offer for sale or possess in this state a portable device or weapon from which an electric current, impulse, wave or beam is designed to incapacitate temporarily, injure or kill. (2) A person who violates this section is guilty of a felony. Summary: Possession and sale of tasers or stunning devices are banned in Michigan.

2. Is Pepper Spray Legal in Michigan?

According to Michigan pepper spray laws, OC pepper spray can be no stronger than a 2 percent concentrate (different companies sell different concentrations). CS is the only tear gas accepted and can be no larger than 35 grams per can. No combination spray allowed.

3. Is It Legal to Carry While Under the Influence?

The law states that an individual licensed to carry a concealed pistol shall not possess a concealed pistol on his or her person or motor vehicle while he or she has a breath or blood alcohol content (BAC) of .02 or above or a controlled substance.

To be on the safe side, it is recommended to do the following if you have had anything to drink, even one beer:

• Place your unloaded gun (no clip) into a locked case in the back/trunk area of the vehicle
• Keep your clips and ammunition away from the gun

These actions essentially turn a carrying situation into a transport situation, hence the concealed carry rules are not invoked as you will not be carrying concealed.

4. What Should You Do After Discharging a Gun in Self-Defense?

Under the Self-Defense Act of 2006, you have the right to stand your ground and defend yourself when you are not involved in a crime. If you face grave danger, you can use your gun to protect yourself and others. If you have discharged your gun in self-defense, it is crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side before talking with the police about what happened. Your words could be used against you, twisted to justify criminal charges, including illegal discharge, manslaughter or worse.

Let Us Protect Your Rights

If you face criminal charges due to a CCW issue, we have the experience and resources to protect your rights. Contact us today for a free initial consultation. From our offices in Kalamazoo, Paw Paw and Grand Rapids, our lawyers represent gun owners throughout western Michigan.