What Does UNL CARRYING WEAPON – GUN IN M Mean?
People see “UNL CARRYING WEAPON – GUN IN M” on a court document or jail record and want to know what it means.
- UNL = Unlawful
- CARRYING WEAPON = Carrying a Weapon
- GUN IN M = Firearm in Motor Vehicle
The charge is unlawful carrying of a weapon—specifically, a firearm in a motor vehicle. Since Texas adopted permitless carry in 2021, this charge typically applies to people engaged in criminal activity—DWI or possession of marijuana, for example—at the time.
The statute and the punishment
The offense is defined in section 46.02 of the Texas Penal Code. The punishment is a Class A misdemeanor: up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
If your loved one has been arrested for this charge, read If Your Loved One Has Been Arrested.
For how this kind of case is defended, see Five Common Defenses in Possession Cases (and One Bennett Special).