Why Firearm Owners Should Consider Joining the United States Concealed Carry Association

The effects of pulling a trigger are substantial for the person who fired the gun and the person on the receiving end. Given the life-changing consequences involved, it’s no wonder that responsible firearm ownership comes with serious responsibilities and potentially serious legal consequences as well.

Even in situations where you believe your actions were justified, you could find yourself facing criminal charges, civil lawsuits, or both. In these cases, organizations like the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) can offer support.

If you carry a gun or keep one in your home for protection, you should know what the USCCA offers and how you could benefit from membership when you need legal protection the most. Membership can be the deciding factor between being alone in court and having a qualified team on your side.

What is the USCCA?

The USCCA is an organization founded in 2003 with a mission to educate, train, and protect responsible firearm owners. As the number of Americans who legally own guns has grown exponentially, so has the need for clear guidance, legal protection, and community support for those who choose to defend themselves and their families.

Today, the USCCA serves hundreds of thousands of members nationwide.

What is included in USCCA membership benefits?

USCCA membership offers more than just firearm training. It provides support for members facing the aftermath of defensive gun use. Some of USCCA’s most important benefits are highlighted below.

Legal defense as a membership benefit

Think of it like this: if you’re at fault in a car accident and get sued, your auto insurance usually provides you with a lawyer. Similarly, if a member faces charges after using their legally owned firearm, USCCA membership provides access to self-defense liability insurance (subject to policy terms and any Maryland-specific limitations). This benefit includes a vetted and experienced defense attorney through their Attorney Network who understands guns and self-defense laws.

When a covered claim is accepted, defense costs are provided (subject to policy terms, conditions, and limits). Without coverage, a lot of people may find themselves struggling to afford adequate representation, forcing them to go without it.

Civil liability protection

In addition to criminal defense, USCCA members are also protected in the event of a civil lawsuit being brought against them. Even if you aren’t charged criminally, you’re not beyond being sued for damages. USCCA provides coverage for defense costs, including legal fees and court costs, per policy limits and exclusions (there are exclusions in Maryland for criminal acts).

24/7 critical response team

The immediate moments after a self-defense incident are critically important. As timing is everything, USCCA’s Critical Response Team (CRT) is available around the clock to offer instant support. The CRT can help coordinate legal representation and assist with the next steps after police are called to the scene.

Members can also receive emergency guidance over the phone, helping them avoid missteps when emotions are running high.

Why does legal representation matter after a self-defense incident?

Even justified self-defense can lead to charges. Using a firearm in self-defense doesn’t guarantee immunity from legal scrutiny. Law enforcement will investigate, and prosecutors may follow up by filing charges. Depending on the circumstances, a lawful use of force might lead to arrest, jail time, or a court appearance.

Each state is different and has a different outlook on self-defense. Some have stand-your-ground statutes while others, like Maryland, have different approaches to the use of deadly force. As a result, the laws are complex and vary dramatically by jurisdiction.

Immediate legal help makes a difference

Having an attorney who understands your state’s laws is essential. USCCA members don’t have to worry about finding and affording legal counsel at one of the worst possible times of their lives. The Attorney Network is prepared to step in quickly and handle your case. This kind of immediate response is vital in high-stress, high-stakes situations where delays or mistakes could negatively affect your case.

Who benefits most from a USCCA membership?

Generally, any law-abiding gun owner could stand to benefit from USCCA membership. Regardless of whether you’re new to ownership or have been carrying for decades, the legal risks remain the same. The need for reliable protection does, too. However, certain individuals may find membership especially valuable. For instance:

• Concealed carry permit holders
• Homeowners who keep firearms for self-defense
• Individuals living in places with complex or strict gun laws
• People who want peace of mind, knowing that they have legal support if something goes wrong

Understandably, many people hesitate to hire a defense attorney due to the conceivably high cost of legal fees. On the flip side, not being able to afford legal counsel is one of the most significant vulnerabilities you can face in a courtroom.

Being a USCCA member helps eliminate that risk by providing legal protection, ensuring you have representation from the outset. It’s not enough to be able to pay for a lawyer. It’s about being able to pay for the right lawyer at the right time.

What happens if you’re involved in a self-defense shooting?

If you’re a USCCA member and you discharge your firearm in an act of self-defense, here’s how the process typically works:

1. Contact the USCCA Critical Response team.
2. The CRT will connect you with a local attorney from their Attorney Network.
3. If your covered claim is approved, your attorney will begin your legal defense, pursuant to the terms of your policy.

This streamlined process can help avoid costly delays.

Is a USCCA membership right for you?

Deciding whether to join the USCCA depends both on your personal circumstances and how you approach firearm ownership. Yet, if you own a gun for self-defense or home protection, the legal risks are real. Membership provides legal and financial peace of mind that many gun owners find invaluable.

Of course, no one wants to find themselves in need of an attorney after a self-defense incident, but if you do, having one on standby could make all the difference in the world.

If you’re facing legal trouble after a self-defense incident or simply want to be prepared, our firm can assist. Not only do we understand the intricacies of firearm-related cases, but we also work closely with the USCCA as a member of their Attorney Network.

Reach out to us today to set up a consultation, so you can learn more about how Carey Law Office LLC supports gun owners through difficult challenges.