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Legal Information: Alabama

State Gun Laws

Updated: 
September 1, 2023

What is the penalty for violating the state firearm laws?

The penalty depends on the circumstances of the illegal possession of the firearm, as follows:

  1. It is a Class C felony to have a firearm while being subject to a valid protection order for domestic abuse, issued after notice to the abuser and a hearing. 
  2. It is a Class C felony to have a firearm if you were convicted of committing or attempting to commit:
    • a crime of violence;
    • a misdemeanor offense of domestic violence; or 
    • a violent offense.  
  3. It is a Class C felony to have a firearm if you are “of unsound mind” or in the U.S. “illegally or unlawfully” or with a nonimmigrant visa.1
  4. It is Class A misdemeanor to have a firearm if the person is:
    • a minor;
    • an abuser of alcohol (“habitual drunkard); or
    • addicted to drugs.2

The sentence for a Class C felony is up to ten years and a fine of up to $15,000.3 The sentence for a Class A misdemeanor is up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $6,000.4

1 Alabama Code § 13A-11-72(a), (c)
2 Alabama Code § 13A-11-72(b) 
3 Alabama Code §§ 13A-5-6(a)(3); 13A-5-11(a)(3)
4 Alabama Code §§ 13A-5-7(a)(1); 13A-5-12(a)(1)