What is the penalty for unlawfully carrying a handgun?

The penalty for unlawfully carrying a handgun is classified as a Class A misdemeanor. This classification involves a significant level of severity, indicating that the offense is taken seriously within the legal framework. A Class A misdemeanor can result in penalties that may include jail time, typically up to one year, along with fines and other repercussions that can affect an individual’s rights, such as the ability to carry firearms in the future. Understanding this classification is crucial for peace officers, as it informs them about the legal consequences they may enforce during such incidents. Class A misdemeanors are often pursued rigorously to maintain public safety and legal compliance regarding firearm possession.