2nd Amendment Lawyer Focused on Firearm Law and Criminal Defense

New York Second Amendment Licensing Firm

Owning and carrying a gun in New York isn’t just a matter of personal choice; it’s a constitutional right. But exercising that right is anything but simple in this state. MILTON GRUNWALD P.C. represents individuals seeking to lawfully obtain, keep, and carry firearms under New York law. We understand the high stakes when your Second Amendment rights are on the line.

With decades of legal experience and a deep knowledge of New York’s firearm regulations, we provide strategic legal support to help our clients navigate one of the country's most restrictive and complex licensing systems.

Request a free initial consultation with a New York lawyer about your Second Amendment licensing case at MILTON GRUNWALD P.C.. Call (516) 512-8972 or reach us online. We offer virtual appointments for your convenience. 

Legal Services Focused on Your Rights

Explore how we can assist WITH FIREARMS RELATED MATTERS AND CRIMINAL CASES.

Understanding New York’s Firearm Licensing System

New York State permits legal handgun ownership for residents, but the path to obtaining a license is often lengthy, technical, and subject to strict scrutiny. All pistol permits are governed by Article 400 of the New York Penal Law. 

Several categories of permits are available, including:

  • Concealed carry permit. Authorizes individuals to carry a handgun at all times, subject to restrictions on “sensitive locations” such as schools, hospitals, and government buildings.
  • Premises/target permit: This permits gun possession only within the residence or business and travel to shooting ranges.
  • Sportsman permit: Permits the transport of a firearm from one’s home to a range or sporting event.
  • Business carry permit: Allows carrying a handgun while actively conducting business-related activities.

While New York law technically offers multiple licensing options, the application and approval process is rigorous and highly discretionary, often requiring extensive documentation, background checks, references, and compliance with training requirements.

    “Proud Gun Owner”
    “He went through so many steps only an experienced attorney, in gun law and criminal law, would know how to successfully correct the record. He did.”
    - Robert
    Nassau
    “Exceptional Lawyer”
    “As I’m a New York State Resident he helped me navigate a very thorny road with a gun application in NJ.”
    - Matt
    “Unreal”
    “He made it so obvious the appeal was literally granted in a week.”
    - Joe
    Suffolk County
    “Impressed”
    “The Court granted my application. I could not have been more impressed.”
    - Dan
    Suffolk County
    “Very Precise”
    “Knew all the angles in helping me prepare my pistol license application.”
    - Peter
    Nassau County

Strategic Legal Guidance for Firearm and Criminal Cases

  • Relentless Defense
    Whether it is a serious criminal charge or a constitutional rights issue, Mr. Grunwald is known for aggressive advocacy and a tireless commitment to his clients' best outcome.
  • Second Amendment Focus

    Mr. Grunwald has spent decades helping clients navigate New York’s complex gun laws, including licensing, permit appeals, and administrative challenges.

  • Hands-On Representation

    Clients work directly with Milton Grunwald at every stage, from initial strategy to final verdict, ensuring personalized attention and consistent, informed advocacy.

  • Decades of Trial Experience

    With over 40 years in the courtroom, Mr. Grunwald brings deep legal knowledge and seasoned judgment to every case he takes on.

The Impact of Recent Gun Legislation

Historically, concealed carry permits were rarely granted unless the applicant could show “proper cause,” often defined as a special need for self-defense beyond that of the general public. This made the process not only difficult but inherently subjective.

That changed in 2022 with the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in Bruen v. New York State Rifle & Pistol Association. The Court struck down New York’s “proper cause” requirement as unconstitutional, holding that law-abiding citizens should not have to demonstrate extraordinary need to exercise their right to carry a firearm.

In response, New York implemented new requirements for concealed carry applicants, including a mandatory 16-hour safety course with at least 2 hours of live-fire training and a detailed background check process. While the "proper cause" hurdle is gone, the system remains far from easy to navigate.

Concealed Carry in New York Today

Despite the Supreme Court ruling, New York has enacted strict limitations on where even properly licensed individuals can carry a concealed firearm. These “sensitive locations” in New York go beyond just schools, hospitals, and government buildings. 

They include:

  • Public transportation and transit facilities (subways, buses, train stations, airports)
  • Places of worship (with some exceptions for security personnel)
  • Bars and restaurants that serve alcohol
  • Entertainment venues (theaters, stadiums, museums, amusement parks, concert halls)
  • Libraries, public playgrounds, public parks, and zoos
  • Polling places
  • Homeless shelters, domestic violence shelters, and other emergency shelters
  • Any location providing health, behavioral health, or chemical dependence care or services
  • Any program licensed, regulated, certified, funded, or approved by the Office of Children and Family Services
  • Times Square (with specific boundaries defined by New York City)
  • Public sidewalks and other public areas restricted for special events

Concealed carry permit holders in New York must be aware of this comprehensive list, as violating these restrictions can lead to serious legal penalties. Only minimal exceptions apply for certain law enforcement personnel and security guards. The result is a legal landscape in which concealed carry is technically allowed but heavily regulated, making compliance both essential and challenging.

Find out what previous clients say about the quality of representation they experienced when working with MILTON GRUNWALD P.C..

Legal Guidance Is Critical

Applying for a firearm license in New York or defending your right to keep one can be daunting and time-consuming. The legal and administrative rules are intricate; even minor missteps can lead to denials, suspensions, or permanent revocation. Whether you're pursuing a new permit or facing action against your existing one, experienced legal support is essential.

We assist with initial applications and administrative appeals and are fiercely committed to protecting your constitutional rights.

Call (516) 512-8972 or connect with us online for a free case evaluation with a New York attorney handling Second Amendment licensing today. 

Continue Reading Read Less

Get Started With a Free Consultation

Call us at (516) 512-8972 or fill out the form below to get started.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from MILTON GRUNWALD P.C. at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy