Mississippi Criminal Law BlogIf you love to hunt in Mississippi, you probably already know that hunting laws can be a little complex. While it might be difficult to keep track of all the various rules and regulations, doing so is important. Failing to adhere to these laws can result in significant legal penalties, including expensive fines. While there are many aspects of Mississippi’s hunting laws, some of the most important rules to remember are those that govern firearms.
If you are facing fines or legal consequences as a result of firearm violations while hunting in Mississippi, it makes sense to work with a qualified, experienced attorney. Choose a criminal defense attorney who has considerable experience with hunting laws in the Magnolia State, and you stand a much better chance of a positive legal outcome. You do not need to simply accept exorbitant fines for relatively innocent hunting violations – not when you have a legal expert by your side.
Unlawful Purchase of License
One of the most serious firearm-related offenses you can commit in Mississippi is the unlawful purchase of a license. If you use a false name or make false statements in order to obtain your hunting license, you will be charged with a felony and subject to a fine of $2,000. You may also face a one-year prison sentence.
Use the Right Weapon for the Right Time
If you are hunting anywhere between 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise, you can only use a maximum cartridge size of .22 standard rim-fire or shotgun shots with a maximum size of No. 6. No 22 magnums are allowed.
Hunting Migratory Birds and Turkeys
If you are hunting migratory birds with a shotgun, your firearm must be “plugged” so that it can only hold three shells at a time. If you are hunting turkeys during the spring gobbler season, you can only use shotguns, recurve bows, longbows, or crossbows. When using shotguns during turkey season, you are restricted to a maximum shot size of No. 2.
Shooting and Roads Do Not Mix
It is important to avoid shooting near roads. It is unlawful to shoot in, on, or across any street, public road, public highway, or railroad. If you are found on a road with a loaded firearm, you will be charged with this crime, even if you were not shooting at anything. Shooting from a motorized vehicle is even more frowned upon in Mississippi, unless the vehicle has come to a complete stop. The same goes for motorboats or watercraft, unless you are hunting squirrels and beavers.
Primitive Weapons
Primitive weapons have their own classification in Mississippi, and these weapons are legal for use during the Primitive Weapons Season. Along with all archery equipment, primitive weapons include things like muzzleloading rifles, breech-loading rifles, metallic cartridge rifles, replicas of rifles with exposed hammers, and muzzleloading shotguns with a single slug. All muzzleloading primitive firearms must use black powder, #209 shotgun primers, or flintlock ignition.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
If you are searching Mississippi for a skilled attorney who can help you with hunting violations, look no further than Vic Carmody Jr., P.A. We have a wealth of experience with gun laws in Mississippi and various hunting violations, and we can help you reduce or completely escape fines and other legal consequences. Reach out today, and we can get started right away.