Mask mandates - or even recommendations - have caused quite a stir throughout Tennessee. Several counties required masks in public areas or businesses, which many people challenged. One argument that arose online was the suggestion that it was illegal in Tennessee to both wear a face covering and carry a firearm, whether concealed or open carry. People argued that wearing a mask would deprive them of their right to carry a firearm without legal repercussions, when, in reality, there is no basis to this argument.

No Tennessee Law against Masks and Firearms

There is not a statute on the books in Tennessee that criminalizes wearing a mask and carrying a firearm. Claims that wearing a mask removes your right to concealed carry are false, as there is no state or federal law criminalizing this combination. However, there were criminal charges and penalties for violating a mask mandate in certain areas of the state. For example, in Nashville, you could face a Class C misdemeanor charge for noncompliance with mask mandates.

While you do not have to worry about criminal charges for wearing a mask while standing up for your right to open or concealed carry, many people did get cited for refusing to wear masks. Even if this seems like a minor matter, you should still seek help from a criminal defense attorney if you were cited.

Misdemeanors Can be Serious

Too many people face misdemeanor charges and believe there is no reason to hire a criminal defense lawyer. However, defendants without the right defense representation often experience wrongful convictions or penalties that are unnecessarily harsh.

Misdemeanors can have surprisingly serious penalties, including the following:

• Class C misdemeanor - Fines of $50 and 30 days in jail
• Class B misdemeanor - Fines of $500 and six months in jail
• Class A misdemeanor - Fines of $2,500 and 11 months and 29 days in jail

A misdemeanor conviction on your record can also cause many problems with your job and other aspects of your life - sometimes, for years to come. In many misdemeanor cases, defense attorneys can negotiate probation instead of jail time or work to get charges dismissed entirely. These opportunities are generally not offered to unrepresented defendants, so it is critical to seek help from the right attorney.

Speak with a Murfreesboro Criminal Defense Lawyer

The experienced Murfreesboro criminal defense team at Taylor Law Group is ready to help. We help our clients defend against all types of criminal charges, so please do not wait to contact us online or call 615-890-1982 for a consultation.