THE GUN LAWYER - What To Do When Pulled Over While Armed In Ohio

Most of us are stopped in a motor vehicle while carrying a concealed handgun. There are a few things you should always keep in mind when dealing with law enforcement officers. The information contained in these videos is not legal advice nor should it be construed as legal advice. You should contact your own attorney should you have any legal questions concerning firearms. Please be advised that the laws discussed in these videos change from time to time and at some point the information may be out of date. You are advised to contact your own attorney before relying on any information herein.
Please feel free to contact us at:
MUNITIONS LAW GROUP
Cheshire DeBrosse, P.C.
503 South Front Street, Suite 240B
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Ph: 888.399.7863
[e-mail]
The information contained in these videos is not legal advice nor should it be construed as legal advice. You should contact your own attorney should you have any legal questions concerning firearms. Please be advised that the laws discussed in these videos change from time to time and at some point the information may be out of date. You are advised to contact your own attorney before relying on any information herein.

[@southernwaytransport]

In Ga we have "no duty to inform" and on several occasions Ive been pulled over and was off with a warning in a matter of minutes, whereas had I mentioned my CCWL and FA in the vehicle, Im sure it wouldve turned into a lengthy process.

[@mominminnesota6648]

I guess it depends on the culture, as well as the laws. In Minnesota I have been pulled over a couple times, once for speed (darn spedometer was broken) and once for drifting over the center line (very tired). In MN we have to hand over the requested documents (which are usually license and proof of insurance); we only need to hand over the CCP if we are carrying a firearm on our person or in the cab of the vehicle. Since I always carry, I handed over my license and CCP and then told him where the insurance document was before I retrieved it. (Cops, VERY understandably, do not care much for surprises. I keep the proof of insurance in a clear plastic sleeve pinned to the headcloth just above the visor on the driver's side; that way I don't need to reach into a glove compartment - where many people also keep guns). Both times the officer glanced at the documents, asked if it was on my person (or where was it), I politely answered "no it's in my purse" and told them where it was, while I sat calmly with both hands in plain sight on the wheel (car turned off, dome light on). The officer would look to see where my purse was, acknowledge that he saw it & ask me to not reach in that direction/keep my hands where he could see them, then he said he'd be right back. It took maybe a couple minutes to come back, hand me my documents, thank me for my cooperation & receive a verbal warning to drive safely; then I was on my way. No pain, no fear, just politeness & vigilance on all parts. Now -- in your state the policies may be different. I'm just saying it might or might not turn a traffic stop into a lengthy process. :-)

[@melsop54]

@@mominminnesota6648 I have also heard, while the guard never comes down, it does usually provide a degree of relief to an officer to see a CCL as it indicates you have already passed multiple background checks, and therefore are more likely than not, to be a good sober moral minded person. Again, guard remains up for obvious reasons, but I could imagine that is a moment of some relief.

[@Realnoraa]

Thank you for the video!

[@reneetorres4263]

Thank you for the information

[@LGPiMedia]

The first thing out of your mouth should not be "I'm currently armed". Those may be the only words that you get out of your mouth. I have always suggested "officer I am licensed to carry and I do have it on me., how would you like to proceed?" Avoid the words "gun" "Armed" and "firearm" at all costs.

[@mrapple3702]

I like to scream "I've got a gun!"

[@m.aileenfigueroa7592]

hahahaa

[@rrrr7659]

Totally. I also like to wave my hardcopy of the US Constitution aggressively in their face while screaming, "I know mah rights!". Works every time.

[@jparker19822009]

LGPi Media that's bullshit I have a ccw for a reason and the cop can see it when he runs my driver license and plate so you don't have to show him shit but your license

[@LGPiMedia]

Jeremy Parker I was referring to the content and advice given in the video. Not every state requires you to notify an officer that you are armed but some have laws that do require you to do so upon any contact with police. It's in this situation that I suggest using careful language. If the law does. Not require it, I would also keep my mouth shut about it. If the law does require it and you wait to have the officer find out on his/her own that you have a CCW and they learn thereafter that you are armed and have not notified them, there could be charges for that.

[@warriorcaste4304]

Have your license and registration ready to go! Just keep it between your fingers while you are gripping the wheel. This ensures there is ZERO moving around on your part. Don't go REACHING for anything

[@masonfarber2604]

Whiskey Tango cause the cop might get a shoot/kill boner

[@BrotherNkosi]

@ Wiskey Tango It ensures that he or she will see you moving around in the vehicle, doing God knows what in (Scared to death ) Minds. No I wait for instruction and repeat each instruction and then let them know that I am carrying them out.

[@hossv1147]

Sounds like common sense. Great to hear coming from a lawyer.

[@MrTedflick]

Reasonable advice

[@lonewolf2364]

In Oregon we don't have to notify because your ccw is on the police database and the officer is notified you have a permit and they don't ask if you have a gun. This has been the case on both times I was pulled over for minor things like taillight out.

[@IAmRayFranklin]

The key word he mentioned "it has to be a lawful order." In order for any order from an officer to be lawful when stopping you, he must be investigating some violation i.e misdemeanor or felony (arrest-able offenses). You would need to look at the law for your respective state though. Here in Kansas, there is no criminal violation for failing to obey an officer. In fact, orders from officers here fall under the traffic codes. It is only a violation to disobey a lawful order from an officer of the fire department or police department if he or she is directing traffic. Instead, here they like to use obstruction charges. Which, if you are familiar with the law, would not apply in many instances where people are actually charged with it.

[@randyo.bowling1907]

When pulled over. I always say "Retired Sheriff's Captain. We are required to carry til the day we die for our own safety. I have Crohn's Disease & Restless Legs Syndrome (Chronic both)." They act like I'm some kind of crack head & have no respect for old peace officers. We need to end this police state mentality. I have little respect or trust for police today due to seeing the bullying & corruption & few would I risk my life to stop a bullet for, unless I knew them, especially in Ark. I still respect Texas Rangers, Montana, Wyoming & Ark. Highway Police. Very, very FEW Arkansas State Police any more. R.O.B./

[@southernwaytransport]

I agree w the previous comment....walmart has video cams for under 100 bucks we should all have them....1 in front, 1 in back, and 1 on the drivers area/window.

[@livefree3864]

In Mississippi we only have to inform the officer if you are asked , do you have a firearm in the vehicle or on you.

[@garfieldkat]

What is the main difference between a Concealed Handgun Lic. (CHL) and a Concealed Carry Weapons (CCW)? Does the CHL and the CCW have or take on a different interpretation in other states which have a Reciprocy Agreement with a persons home state, mine being Ohio?

[@tomn5880]

I deliver cars for a living. The higher number of cars in a week means higher income. I get stopped now and then. I pull my wallet before the officer approaches the drivers window and hold it in my right hand. I have both hands on the steering wheel and window down. I give a cheerful, pleasant greeting. I do NOT volunteer information. I answer questions nothing more. The officer is just doing the job I pay them to do. If asked to exit the car, I say "officer, I am instructed to inform you that I have a carry concealed permit and as such I am armed and I am no threat to you." (I see no need to escalate the situation)

[@deanriver9388]

I don't tell them nothing unless I was asked to get out of the vehicle. No reason to make the officer nervous.

[@dfossilo]

Any tips on how to open carry in a vehicle with no license to carry? Is there a vehicle holster to secure the loaded gun while keeping it in plain sight? I just don’t see tearing the gun apart and putting it in the trunk. Defeats the purpose. Thanks for your tine

[@shawnjarman9860]

Just so some understand, he is referring to Ohio law, not nation wide, here in Nevada there is no law requiring you must notify, but I will recommend that you do inform a officer when stopped, he or she will be more at ease with you for doing so

[@melsop54]

Always. Everyone in that situation is safer if all cards are on the table from the start.

[@JS-fo5dr]

Question I live in Texas since the castle law passed as you can protect your vehicle like you can your house, meaning you don’t need a license to carry a firearm in your vehicle. If you get pulled over can you have your pistol mounted to a magnet for easy access which is visible if you look inside the vehicle? Legally?

[@melsop54]

Good info. If you must move your hands, move em slow. Ideally, your wallet is on your dash or somewhere easily reachable far away from your gun.

[@johnpacella9519]

If you are not armed, what would you "inform" the police of? Possession of CC permit?

[@scottoliver4582]

Can you update this with the new permit less handgun carry

[@dufey1969]

and always record

[@charlieholmes4734]

In missouri you don't need a conceal and carry permit you can legally carry a gun in your car in the glove box or center console

[@jasonmortimer7537]

Can you explain what a lawful order is? I know there is a lot of confusion about this and I am not 100% sure how to tell the difference between lawful and unlawful order!

[@rkba4923]

I've always wondered why we have to provide any self incriminating documents, information or answer any questions just because we're exercising our fundamental, individual, human right to travel upon public rights of way , utilizing society's most commonly known means of personal conveyance, in the first place?

[@mominminnesota6648]

Because Bad Guys. Because if everyone was nice to everyone else, there'd never be any logical reason to ask questions or search for anyone. Unfortunately, in this world, there are some evil schmucks who love harming people, and they want to get away with it. Thus, the Good Guys (that's us) have to assist the Protectors (law enforcement) in finding the Bad Guys. Part of that means, identifying yourself so the Protectors know you are indeed a Good Guy and not a Bad Guy. Clear ?

[@rkba4923]

@ Momin Minnesota Suggest you read and study the DoI and Constitution of the U.S. Then ponder the meaning of the Oath of Office. Hopefully, that'll help with your confusion as, apparently, you have no clue regarding the concepts of liberty those documents promote.

[@robertkocanda1580]

Officer. I have a conceal carry license. I am armed. How do you want to handle this situation. And video record.

[@schmick125]

I work in a school system. Can I legally have a loaded handgun concealed in my vehicle? Am I allowed to have multiple handguns in my vehicle (big suv) I am the only one who rides in the vehicle to and from work.

[@lemmykilmister9979]

I've had my permit to carry in Ohio for a long time got it when the law came in effect been pulled over a few time's never had a problem even when i go out of state in Kentucky never had a problem

[@Quakeboy02]

Every third person in KY is armed, so they've seen it all before.

[@coreygrant7539]

what are the laws about silencers

[@TOPDOLLAQUIS]

What If You Do not Have a CHL. In the state of Ohio We have an open carry Law... If I’m stopped for a Traffic Violation is it ok for me too still carry openly without getting my rights impeded ?

[@davegroen8327]

Not in Ohio. If you are carrying in the car, it's essentially consideted concealed and Open Carry does not apply. Check out the Ohio CHL Handbook at: www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Files/Publications-Files/Publications-for-Law-Enforcement/Concealed-Carry-Publications/Concealed-Carry-Laws-Manual-(PDF).aspx Also, for a light read, check out codes.ohio.gov/orc/2923.11. through 2923.23

[@whydotheathensrage]

LOL - potentially unconstitutional.... ya think? Any thing or one that infringes my right to bear arms is unconstitutional and that's a long long list of rules, regulations, laws etc isn't it?

[@bornwithfame61]

This definitely is infringement of the 2nd amendment

[@Badass_Rooster]

Whenever I'm in my truck and armed i put my wallet in the door handle or on center console under the radio. just incase i were to get pulled over

[@jrlewi5829]

Is that an FN 5 7 in the beginning

[@guesswho8863]

As I understand the law in Ohio, you must inform the officer that you licensed to carry and you are carrying. In talking to several Ohio State Patrol Officers. They suggest: as you see the lights come on and before you stop remove your wallet and place it on your dash whether you carry or not. Keep both hands on the wheel at 10 and 2. Same with the passengers, hand on lap(s) in plain sight. I would also suggest that you get a plastic holder for your vehicle reg and Insurance card that fits on the sun visor so you don't have to dig through the glove box... Common sense and being respectful is the key. All this say, you could still wind up if with a cop that is having a bad day...

[@sandinyourshoes4130]

Why? How will any cop know that if you don't mention it? It's unconstitutional and a form of self-incrimination.

[@easylivineastvalleyphoenix1488]

I keep it under the seat when I'm in the car. If for some reason a cop wants me out of the car... he's still in no danger. Hence... no need to disclose.

[@thepitpatrol]

It's best to wave it out the window so the cop knows you have it.

[@BigChiefTomTom53]

What is your opinion on those "CONCEALED CARRY BADGES" that some people have? Would you recommend carrying one, or would you say that it's a fast way to put yourself in jail?

[@mightymoe9254]

I agree with you below with your comment. 'I am armed' is asking for a LEO gun pointed at you. amen brother

[@1337fl0w]

What about open carry’s ?

[@madakee1054]

What if it's not on you or loaded just in a bag in the back seat

[@chaslow5435]

I just hand them my permit with my license while I keep my hands on the wheel and wait on directions.

[@Quakeboy02]

Best answer of the day!

[@tedrick79]

As soon as you say you are armed you can be killed. Whether or not you touch it or move for it or even sit still is not going to ever be considered or come to light. If you are armed you can be killed. Saying your armed can get you killed. I would promptly notify the officer by letter when he is not at a traffic stop and on edge.

[@2mogar]

Why do we have to watch the commercial twice?

[@Mr.mopar71]

if I may add, there is no such "lawful order". that's a term police use as to intimidate.

[@homefront3162]

I have seen way too many you tube videos of people killed when they announced they were armed.

[@Harleyhog1979]

you do NOT have to give them the gun do you?? I have been pulled over many times and they ask for my gun then while they have it they unload it and run the numbers against my consent is this ok?? also I live in INDIANA

[@mominminnesota6648]

it is in the best interest of the cop (short-term) to be in control of any interaction. It is in the cop's best interest LONG-term, for the interactions to be as pleasant as possible. In Minnesota they usually decide based on what is happening in the situation; we are taught in our CCP classes that if we are forced to defend ourselves, to not be offended or even surprised if we are detained (or arrested) and our legally-acquired, lawfully-possessed firearm is taken out of our possession and placed elsewhere (squad car trunk, etc) while the LEOs sort things out. If you stay calm & polite the chances are very high that you will be free to go and will be given back your firearm (unloaded) and just asked to not load it till you have left the scene. But this is something ALL law enforcement are taught : they ought to be in control of all interactions. Now, they can decide HOW to exercise control --- and usually they use the minimum amount of control necessary; it just makes the day easier for them. Basically, you influence their decisions quite a bit. :-)

[@tylerharrington4372]

What if you are a passenger in the vehicle and you are armed would you need to notify the officer?

[@Quakeboy02]

Yes, unless you truly want to get shot. This is not a game of who knows the law better. One would hope that the officer has actually seen a gun in the hands of a civilian and knows procedure. But you SHOULD NOT have your hands on your gun when the officer approaches the car. If you have a gun on your person, put your hands in plain sight, well away from your weapons, before the cop gets to the checkout window.

[@breasttattoos8139]

I don't know what state you're in but here in Georgia...you don't have to let them know & they can ask but you don't have to answer! sorry, just saw you're in Ohio.

[@PZtv-pb2yn]

that might be true... but if you were a cop, what would you do? I would definitely use force if I see somebody all over sudden having a weapon. you might not be required to tell them but just use common sense... it's not that much of a deal telling them and it might save your like

[@kennethtaylor9759]

So if I was to get stopped in a car or on foot, after I notify them do I have to tell them where the gun is at or is that a unlawful order?

[@mominminnesota6648]

I'm not an attorney but since this isn't answered yet I will do my best: there is a difference between "legal" and "lawful". As I understand it, "legal" means "passed into law by the legislature". "Lawful" means "tending to ensure safety" (of all involved/afected). "Lawful" tends to be upheld in courts even if there isn't a "LETTER of the law" (i.e. legislated stipulation) existing regarding that particular point......So for example, the Constitution recognizes our God-given right to defend ourselves, using the weaponry of the day. That's fine... The state legislature says we need a document, and stipulates a process we go thru to get it (background check, minimal training etc) --- which to some is an "infringment" but that's a debate for another time. Anyway even if you are a strict Constitutionalist/sovereign citizen, you have to logically agree that the cop ALSO has a right to defend HIMself. Right? so even if he is asking you to do something such as allow a search-- even without a warrant -- it's true that this is TECHNICALLY outside the LEGAL rights we have, and technically is outside/against Amendment 4 in the Bill of Rights.. But if it is in his best interest for safety, you need to be cautious about denying, because it is a "LAWFUL" request/order even if it isn't "LEGAL". However you also need to cover your own backside, so be cautious about how/if you consent. There are various approaches to this.... politeness and calmness are ALWAYS helpful. You could (in this example of a search w/o warrant) politely and calmly say "well, officer, I do not give consent, but I will remain calm and will not resist if you do a search." This leaves the decision on the cop's shoulders. Since most cops (not all but most) have more training in applicable law than most (not all but most) drivers, this is appropriate. Again, I am not a lawyer (nor a cop) but I am a mom & I just want everyone to go home alive.

[@wingshooter1967]

Kenneth Taylor if you are walking around you only have to tell them you have a gun if you are lawfully detained.

[@Sparks4RacingFilms]

Would you have to notify the officer if you have a long gun in your vehicle?

[@ninponighthawk]

I've been told yes. if you have any firearm in the vehicle it would behoove you to notify the officer as soon as possible. better safe than sorry.

[@mominminnesota6648]

agreed. In fact working on an ambulance I was taught to ask if the patient has "anything on [you] that could be used to hurt me?" People who carry means to protect themselves tend to carry more than one means to protect themselves. This is consistent and reasonable behavior. However it does mean the LEOs need to then verify they really are safe in their dealings with you. Don't take it personally. :-)

[@michaelodonoghue7464]

Different Country, different situation, different Laws I know, but whenever I am pulled over by Police I simply hand the Officer 3 Cards. On top is My Drivers Licence; next is My Private Investigator (Security) Licence and on the bottom is My Firearms Licence. Each time I prepare to drive I remove these Cards from My Wallet and place them, At the Ready in My centre console. The other thing I do is lower all of My Windows so that an approaching Officer can see into the interior of My car and see whatever I might be carrying on a Seat.

[@Mr.Chris.P.Bacon1]

Here the weird thing... *Why would an officer be asking about ANYTHING when its JUST A TRAFFIC STOP?* What does me driving 56 in a 45 zone have to do with what's in my glove box or trunk? *I don't tell officers SHIT. I get my ticket and drive off PEACEFULLY.*

[@49ers4Life100]

So what if your in mo...u r not required to inform unless asked, and u r not required to have a ccw to carry concealed. what verbiage would u use?

[@BoxierPower]

id sudgest putting your wallet on the dash when you get in your car.

[@switter1999]

It's stupid police have to worry about being shot. I think more people should open carry firearms. I would protect you, the person next to you, and many other people if criminals knew that armed people may be watching them before they commit a crime!

[@whydotheathensrage]

yep, everyone carries, the bad guys would disappear real fast.

[@GLUSCKMC]

I haven't been pulled over in a while but any time I was, I would always immediately pull my wallet out and have it in my hand before the officer gets to my window and have my hands at 10 and 2. That way there's not way that I have to brush past my gun to grab my wallet. Just seems simple to me. That and just go ahead and have my ID permit out and as soon as he's there, hand it to him. Obviously I wouldn't say "I HAVE A GUN" as he's walking up to the door. If he sees my permit when I hand it to him, he'll probably ask if I have a gun on me in which case I'd say yes. If he didn't ask, I would then inform him immediately saying with my permit, I have a concealed weapon on me. I wouldn't say gun because especially in today's world, most cops are kind of on edge. Even if the officer were to not ask for anything, it doesnt hurt my feelings that he knows my name. If I'm pulled over, I did something wrong so o well

[@jsmunitions1471]

I personally like to carry my wallet and firearm on opposite sides of my body ( gun on my strong side with the wallet on my weak hand ). I recommend that everyone do the same.

[@kristianburrows6875]

Do a separate video for non-whites 😊 thanks will be a appreciated .its sad this was sarcastic but at the same time I'm being very serious @thegunlawyer thanks man love the videoa

[@coreygrant7539]

you said that you shouldn't not leav the vehicle what if the officer asked you to get out. is that a lawfle for them

[@unknownunknown-vd4ev]

Just tell him you don't have gun I do that every time I get pulled over

[@smn475]

Golden rule: never use the "G" word when talking to a cop. "I'm licensed to carry, and I have it on me. what would you like me to do?" "I'm licensed and am currently carrying, how do you want to proceed?" Never ever ever ever ever say the word "gun."

[@MarksTech]

why? lol... I got pulled over twice for speeding , both times I had a gun on me.. when I get pulled over, I put down all my windows, hands on the steering wheel. the cop comes up to me and says what he has to say, and when he stops talking, I say ' officer, I have a gun on me, I have a license to carry, my wallet is in my glove box can I reach for it'.. and both officers were more than compliant of what I said.. stop beating around the bush.. gun.. armed.. weapon... same shit. stop sugar coating.. I have a gun and I'm armed is the same shit.

[@hahaLOLhaha72]

Depends where you live. In this state you must declare on initial contact with police that you have your gun with you. You can choose to call it a gun, firearm, say you are armed, etc, but avoiding those words can cause some pretty serious issues. The way the law is written for those with carry license requires this detail. personally i think its stupid. The way you say it makes more sense and it should be obvious what you mean by it. then again not much surprises me about gun laws around here. they are trying to pass a 10 round magazine limit :|

[@TheTyrial86]

iMarks Tech Because of scared police officers.

[@Ragweed66]

smn475 Isi

[@jasonweaver3623]

Because police have been trained to draw and fire at the word “gun” for years lol we have changed it to “threat” now

[@bornwithfame61]

Unconstitutional

[@Soldier2799]

fifth and fourth amendment violations.. fuck that

[@billfranz8489]

I disagree about letting an officer know you have a gun If you where or are in the Military you are taught Do Not Volinteer Information Telling an officer you have a gun sets up all Red Flags and as this dude says telling a cop you have a gun is ok In my opinion you are criminating your self and setting your self up to getting shot or a lot worse If a cop comes up to you and asks you tell them Yes and where it's located If it's on you Do Not Make any moves unless they tell you and keep your hands in plain sight at all times

[@shawnjarman9860]

Some states it is the law that you must inform a officer that you are armed, if in Ohio, that might be the case, and can be arrested if you dont

[@victorraye57]

Stick both hands out the window and proceed to inform the Officer, I do have a firearm inside the vehicle... What are your order??? Keep both hands out the window or you will End Up On You Tube

[@radiohobbyist13]

Step#5 Follow all the rules of the road. I am a motorist AND A BICYCLIST. Too many people are driving like crazy for absolutely no reason. Slow down or leave sooner, problem solved.

[@rokelpidio]

But what if you're Black, Middle Eastern, or Hispanic?

[@madmechanic7976]

Keep your mouth shut. Just hand them your license.

[@KINGDOMDAD1]

You forgot step 5, don't be a black man 👨🏾

[@shanelen]

don't carry a gun, problem solved

[@mominminnesota6648]

so I gotta carry a cop ????

[@scubasteve3778]

Unable to protect yourself, trade one problem for a much bigger one.