The Legal Responsibilities of Concealed Carry: What Every Gun Owner Needs to Know

Carrying a firearm for self-defense is a serious responsibility. While a concealed weapons permit (CWP) gives you the legal right to carry, it also comes with legal, ethical, and moral obligations that every gun owner must understand. Knowing the laws, understanding when you can and cannot use force, and preparing for the aftermath of a defensive shooting are just as important as marksmanship skills.

1. Know Your State’s Laws

Firearm laws vary by state, and ignorance is not a valid defense in court. Understanding where and how you can legally carry is critical to avoiding legal trouble.

Key Areas to Research:

✔ Where You Can Carry: Some locations, such as schools, government buildings, and private businesses, may be off-limits.

✔ Duty to Inform Laws: Some states require you to notify law enforcement that you’re carrying a concealed firearm during a traffic stop.

✔ Reciprocity Agreements: If you travel, check which states honor your CWP and whether their laws differ from your home state.

Failing to follow these laws could result in fines, revocation of your permit, or even criminal charges.

2. Understand When You Can Use Deadly Force

Carrying a firearm doesn’t mean you can use it whenever you feel threatened. The law defines justifiable use of deadly force, and misjudging a situation could lead to serious legal consequences.

Using Deadly Force, 3 things that must be present:

✔ Ability – did the person against whom deadly force was used have the ability to cause harm?

✔ Opportunity – did the person have the opportunity to cause harm?

✔ Jeopardy – did the person put your life or health in jeopardy?

✔ All three of these things must be present at the moment deadly force is used.

Misusing deadly force—even with good intentions—could result in criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits.

3. Carrying Means More Than Just Self-Defense

A concealed firearm isn’t just for self-defense; it also comes with heightened responsibilities in everyday life.

Key Responsibilities of Concealed Carriers:

✔ De-Escalation First: Your firearm should be your last resort. Learn how to avoid conflicts instead of engaging in them.

✔ Secure Your Firearm: Always keep your gun secured in a proper holster and ensure unauthorized persons (especially children) cannot access it.

✔ Mind Your Temperament: Road rage, arguments, and heated confrontations can escalate when a firearm is involved. Stay calm and in control at all times.

Concealed carry is as much about avoiding violence as it is about being prepared to defend yourself.

4. What Happens After a Defensive Shooting?

Even if you are completely justified in using deadly force, the legal battle doesn’t end when the threat is neutralized. Expect to be detained, questioned, and possibly charged while authorities investigate the shooting.

What to Do After a Defensive Shooting:

✔ Call 911 and request police and medical assistance immediately.

✔ Say only what is necessary: “I was the victim of a crime and I need an ambulance.” Give your location information and HANG UP.

✔ Do not give a detailed statement to police without a lawyer present. Even innocent people can say things under stress that may be used against them.

✔ Be prepared for legal fees and a potential lawsuit, even if you were completely justified.

Many concealed carriers choose to invest in legal protection plans, such as Right to Bear, which provides financial and legal support in the aftermath of a defensive shooting. In a self defense situation they can have a lawyer out to you within a couple hours of the incident, regardless of the time or if it’s a holiday. To learn more or to get protected, contact us.

5. Train Regularly—It’s Not Just About Shooting

Owning a gun and knowing how to shoot aren’t enough. Regular training ensures you can handle your firearm safely, respond under stress, and make split-second life-or-death decisions.

Essential Training for Concealed Carriers:

✔ Live-fire training for accuracy and defensive shooting skills

✔ Scenario-based training for realistic self-defense situations

✔ Legal education courses to stay up to date on laws

✔ Force-on-force training to develop decision-making skills under pressure

The more you train, the better prepared you’ll be—both physically and legally.

Final Thoughts

Concealed carry is a right, but it’s also a responsibility. Knowing the law, understanding when you can use force, and preparing for the legal aftermath are just as important as firearm proficiency. Stay educated, stay responsible, and train often.

Want to learn more about responsible concealed carry? Join our CWP & Beginners Handgun Class on March 8th and get the training you need to carry with confidence!