Firing guns in public places – what’s the law in Doral?

So you live in Doral and you’re wondering about the rules around discharging firearms in public areas. It’s a fair question in this day and age, right? Lots of folks have guns for sport, self-defense, or just ’cause they like ’em. But how and where can you actually use them legally? Let’s break it down.

First up – what counts as “public” in Doral when it comes to guns? Basically any areas open to the general public or a place where people gather. We’re talking streets, sidewalks, parks, government buildings, stores, restaurants, bars, schools, churches, hospitals, parking lots, you name it. If the average Joe can walk in there, it’s public as far as the law goes.

Now, is it totally illegal to fire a gun in any public place in Doral? Not necessarily. There are a few exceptions. Like if you’re a law enforcement officer or licensed security guard doing your job. Or if you’re at a gun range or other area specifically designated for target practice. But otherwise, discharging firearms in public is a big no-no here.

Let’s get into the specifics. Doral follows Florida state law on this stuff. There’s a whole section in the Florida Statutes about “Weapons and Firearms.” The key parts for us are Sections 790.15 and 790.33.

Section 790.15 says you can’t fire a gun or weapon “upon, over, or across any public road or highway.” This includes firing across roads from private property. Bad idea. There was a case in Tampa where a guy shot his gun from his yard across the street. He got arrested for discharging a firearm in public even though he was on his own property.

Section 790.33 is about discharging firearms in public generally. It says you can’t shoot a gun on any public street, park, building, etc “except when used in defense of life, home, and property.” So self-defense situations are the main exception.

There’s also specific rules about schools in Florida. You can’t fire any weapons within 1,000 feet of a school. And you can’t even have a gun on school property unless you fall into some exceptions like being a cop.

What kind of penalties are we talking about here for illegal discharge of firearms in Doral? Felonies in some cases.

Firing a gun in public can potentially be charged as a 2nd degree felony under Section 790.15. That can mean up to 15 years in prison and/or fines up to $10,000. Not good.

Violating Section 790.33 is a 1st degree misdemeanor. Still serious though. We’re talking possibly up to one year in jail and $1,000 fines.

If nobody gets hurt, a simple “improper exhibition of weapons” charge is more likely. That’s only a 2nd degree misdemeanor. But still, who wants to risk jail time and a criminal record for shooting off their gun in the park? Not worth it.

And if you don’t even have a concealed carry permit in Florida? Big trouble if you discharge a firearm in public. That’s automatic jail time plus fines and suspension of any future gun licenses.

Bottom line – don’t fire guns randomly in public places in Doral unless you want to risk felony charges and serious legal headaches. Even if you think it’s just “harmless fun” or whatever, it’s just not a good idea.

Now let’s chat about possible defenses with a Doral firearms lawyer if you do get charged with illegal discharge. There are a few options:

Self-Defense

This is the biggest one. If you can show you fired the gun to protect yourself or others from serious bodily harm or death, you may be able to fight the charges. Eyewitnesses and evidence of the threat will be key.

Defense of Property

Trickier argument but maybe relevant if you were protecting your home, car etc from damage. The threat would need to be significant though.

Lack of Intent

You could try arguing the firing was an accident and you didn’t mean to discharge the weapon. But good luck proving that.

Coerced into Firing

If you can show someone forced or threatened you into firing the gun, that’s a potential defense.

Mistake of Law

You thought discharging the firearm was legal in that instance based on a misunderstanding of the law. Also not easy to prove but could work.

So if you do end up dealing with charges for firing a gun in public in Doral, don’t go it alone. Get an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. They can evaluate any possible defenses and build the strongest case for you.

A good lawyer can also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or diversion programs potentially. Things like anger management classes and community service may be on the table as an alternative to harsh criminal penalties.

But of course – the best bet is just not to discharge firearms illegally in the first place while in Doral or anywhere in Florida. Save the shooting for designated gun ranges or legal hunting areas. It’s just not worth the risk otherwise.

The gun laws here can be a little tricky but they’re designed to keep people safe. Exercise your 2nd Amendment rights responsibly and you shouldn’t have any issues. So lock up those weapons when going out in public places. And if you do have a proper concealed carry permit, keep that thing holstered unless there’s a dire emergency.

Be smart, folks. And if you have any other legal questions about firearms or criminal charges in Doral, hit up a lawyer. They’re here to help. Stay safe out there!