Swords and machetes are not terribly common blades. For the most part, they are mostly owned and carried by hobbyists and knife collectors. However, swords, machetes, and similar large blades are sometimes used in outdoor activities like hunting. While swords and machetes are obviously very dangerous, they are not illegal and may be lawfully carried in Utah.
Swords and machetes are not illegal, but they are subject to tight restrictions and regulations in the interest of public safety. You may be required to obtain special licensing or permits to carry a sword or machete. There are also places to avoid carrying a large blade even if you have valid permits. Criminal charges related to dangerous and deadly weapons are very severe, and you should be extra careful when carrying a sword or machete.
If you are up against criminal charges for violations related to swords, machetes, or other similar weapons, you need to speak with our Utah criminal defense lawyers immediately. The team of attorneys at Overson & Bugden can discuss your case in a private case review free of charge. Call us for help at (801) 758-2287.
Are Swords and Machetes Legal in Utah?
Most knives and blades, including swords and machetes, are legal to purchase, possess, and carry in the State of Utah. However, that does not mean you can carry swords and machetes on your person anytime and anywhere. Certain restrictions must be followed to avoid criminal charges and penalties.
According to Utah Code § 76-10-501(6), blades including machetes and swords are classified as dangerous weapons. The law holds that a dangerous weapon is anything that can cause death or serious bodily harm when used for its intended purpose. While swords and machetes are obviously weapons that are dangerous, the legal designation of “dangerous weapon” means that swords and machetes may be implicated in certain criminal charges.
The “dangerous weapon” moniker becomes important when buying or obtaining a sword or machete because certain people are restricted from owning dangerous weapons. Under Utah Code § 76-10-503, there are two categories of people restricted from owning, possessing, transferring, or purchasing dangerous weapons, including swords and machetes.
Category I and II restricted persons include anyone with certain criminal convictions, people currently on probation or parole, and people with substance abuse problems. You could also be restricted if you are unlawfully present in the country, were adjudicated delinquent for a serious crime within the past 7 to 10 years, or have been previously found mentally incompetent to stand trial. Numerous civil and criminal conditions may lead to being categorized as a restricted person. Talk to our Ogden criminal defense lawyers to determine if you are a Category I or II restricted person.
If a Category II restricted person purchases, possesses, or transfers a sword or machete, they might be charged with a Class A misdemeanor. Category I restricted persons, which is a more serious category, might be charged for third-degree felonies.
Criminal Charges Related to Swords and Machetes
Beyond having a sword or machete as a restricted person, numerous criminal charges may be connected with the unlawful use or possession of dangerous weapons. Weapons charges are very serious, and you should definitely speak to our Utah weapons charges defense attorneys about your situation.
Not everyone who owns a sword or machete intends to use it safely. You can be criminally charged with possession of a deadly weapon with criminal intent if you plan to use the weapon in a crime. You can also be criminally charged for using the sword or machete in a fight or to make threats to another person.
There are also age restrictions on who can use dangerous weapons, even for their lawful intended purposes. For example, a minor may not use a dangerous weapon like a sword or machete without a parent’s permission and adult supervision. Even the child’s parents can be criminally charged if they knew the minor had a sword or machete and did nothing to remove the weapons. It is also a crime to carry a dangerous weapon while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
There are many other crimes in addition to those mentioned here that may be implicated by your use or possession of a sword or machete. If you find yourself on the wrong side of the law, speak to our Riverton criminal defense attorneys for advice.
Places You Cannot or Should Not Carry a Sword or Machete in Utah
Most people may legally carry machetes and swords, but that does not mean they can be carried in all locations. It is important to think about where you plan to carry your sword or machete as there may be restrictions against dangerous weapons. In fact, because swords and machetes are so dangerous, it is probably a good idea to refrain from carrying one unless you absolutely need to and have a secure cover or container for the blade. Our Utah weapons charges defense attorneys can help you fight any criminal charges related to your sword or machete.
Schools are heavily protected areas, and dangerous weapons of any kind are almost always prohibited. Not only are dangerous weapons likely against the school’s policy and safety rules, but they are also against the law. If you take your sword or machete to a school’s campus, you can be charged with a Class B misdemeanor for possession of a dangerous weapon on school premises.
Similarly, you can be criminally charged for having a sword or machete in other high-security areas. Airports and other transportation hubs are usually off-limits for dangerous weapons and firearms. You should also refrain from carrying a sword or machete in places like hospitals, government buildings, and places of public gatherings, like parks and plazas.
Call Our Utah Weapons Charges Defense Attorneys
Machetes and swords are a bit unusual but certainly not illegal. However, they are dangerous and subject to heavy regulations. Our Park City criminal defense lawyers can help you with any criminal charges related to your swords or machetes. Call Overson & Bugden at (801) 758-2287 to schedule a free case review right away.
