Maryland has a reputation for being one of the most difficult states to obtain a handgun carry permit. Citizens are required to undergo background checks, handgun training, and various verification methods throughout the process of their HQL and carry applications. If denied, there is often little to no explanation as to why.
Maryland citizens who have been denied their Maryland gun carry permit do have the right to request an appeal. Saller Law specializes in firearm law in Maryland and can help you navigate what to do if you’ve been denied a carry permit in Maryland.
Disclaimer: articles on sallerlaw.com are not intended as legal advice and should not be taken as such, please consult an attorney for advice about your individual situation.
Why You Were Denied a Carry Permit in Maryland
A carry permit can be denied in Maryland due to age (under 21), felony convictions, misdemeanors, controlled substance use, and more. You will not always be informed why your carry permit was denied.
It is important to review your application, legal history, and more if you are unsure about a carry permit denial in Maryland. An experienced firearms attorney can help you appeal your denied carry permit in Maryland.
Why Your Carry Permit May Have Been Denied
- Felony convictions
- Misdemeanor convictions with imprisonment over 1 year
- Criminal offense with 2 year imprisonment
- Convictions for a controlled substance
- Addictions, alcoholism, or controlled substance usage
- Violent threats
- Confirmation of completing Maryland State Police approved firearms training course within 2 years
- Livescan fingerprints and background check
- Valid, color passport-style photo and ID verification
What To Do If You Were Denied a Carry Permit in Maryland
1. Contact a Firearm Attorney in Maryland
An experienced gun law attorney will help you with deadlines, history checks, and building a case. You have 10 days to request an informal review once you receive your denied carry permit. An email will be sent to you with instructions. It is at this time that it is advised to consult with a nearby Maryland gun law attorney so you have time to prepare before your appeal meeting.
2. Request an Appeal
Submit your request for an informal review and begin working with your lawyer. Do not miss the deadline to file an appeal, as this can lead to delays, setbacks, re-applications, or an inability to argue an appeal on your behalf.
3. Build Your Case
Your lawyer will review your application and legal history for anything that could prevent you from obtaining your carry permit under Maryland law. Once your history and application have been reviewed, your lawyer will build your case based on the facts, history, and legal outline of obtaining a carry permit in Maryland.
Working with an Experienced Gun Law Attorney Matters
It is important to contact a law firm that is experienced with Maryland gun laws and understands the rights of Maryland citizens under the Second Amendment. Andrew Saller, of Saller Law, is not just a criminal lawyer but a firearms lawyer and gun law attorney. Saller’s experience includes co-hosting a podcast on gun rights and laws, advocating for the Second Amendment, and being a lifelong member of the NRA.
When presenting a case for yourself, work with someone who is experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate. It is not just a case, it is your right to bear arms under the Constitution. We work to uphold those rights for Maryland citizens.
Contact Saller Law Today
Call our office or fill out our online form to schedule a consult with our firearm attorney in Baltimore. If you have been denied your carry permit in Maryland, our team can help. Talk to us about your application, timeline, and more.
We understand how frustrating the appeal and application process can be. As Maryland gun laws have continued to change over the last several years, it can be confusing for citizens to know their rights. We are here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was my Maryland gun carry permit denied?
A Maryland carry permit can be denied for reasons such as being under 21, felony convictions, certain misdemeanor convictions, controlled substance use, addiction, or not completing the required firearms training. Sometimes, the denial letter may not specify the exact reason. Contact a firearms attorney near you for assistance getting more information and starting the appeal process.
What should I do immediately after being denied a Maryland carry permit?
You should contact a Maryland firearm attorney right away. You have only 10 days to request an informal review after receiving your denial notice. A lawyer can help you understand your denial and prepare for your appeal.
How can I appeal a denied Maryland carry permit?
You must submit a request for an informal review within 10 days of receiving your denial. After that, your attorney can help you gather documentation, review your legal history, and build your case for the appeal process.
What qualifications are checked during a Maryland carry permit application?
Maryland checks age (must be over 21), criminal background (no disqualifying convictions), substance use history, mental health, completion of state-approved firearms training within the last two years, Livescan fingerprints, and valid ID via a passport-style photo.
Why should I hire an experienced gun law attorney like Andrew Saller?
Andrew Saller is a firearms attorney who specializes in Maryland gun law. He understands the appeal process, is a lifelong NRA member, and advocates for Second Amendment rights. His experience can make a major difference in your carry permit appeal.
