North Carolina § 14-288 - 20. Certain weapons at civil disorders.

Full text of North Carolina North Carolina General Statutes § 14-288 — 20. Certain weapons at civil disorders., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 14-288. 20. Certain weapons at civil disorders.

The definitions in G.S. 14-288.1 do not apply to this section. As used in this section: The term "civil disorder" means any public disturbance involving acts or violence by assemblages of three or more persons, which causes an immediate danger of damage or injury to the property or person of any other individual or results in damage or injury to the property or person of any other individual. The term "firearm" means any weapon which is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive; or the frame or receiver of such a weapon. The term "explosive or incendiary device" means (i) dynamite and all other forms of high explosives, (ii) any explosive bomb, grenade, missile, or similar device, and (iii) any incendiary bomb or grenade, fire bomb, or similar device, including any device which (i) consists of or includes a breakable container including a flammable liquid or compound, and a wick composed of any material which, when ignited, is capable of igniting that flammable liquid or compound, and (ii) can be carried or thrown by one individual acting alone. The term "law-enforcement officer" means any officer of the United States, any state, any political subdivision of a state, or the District of Columbia charged with the execution of the laws thereof; civil officers of the United States; officers and soldiers of the organized militia and state guard of any state or territory of the United States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or the District of Columbia; and members of the Armed Forces of the United States. A person is guilty of a Class H felony, if he: Teaches or demonstrates to any other person the use, application, or making of any firearm, explosive or incendiary device, or technique capable of causing injury or death to persons, knowing or having reason to know or intending that the same will be unlawfully employed for use in, or in furtherance of, a civil disorder; or Assembles with one or more persons for the purpose of training with, practicing with, or being instructed in the use of any firearm, explosive or incendiary device, or technique capable of causing injury or death to persons, intending to employ unlawfully the training, practicing, instruction, or technique for use in, or in furtherance of, a civil disorder. Nothing contained in this section shall make unlawful any act of any law-enforcement officer which is performed in the lawful performance of his official duties. History (1981, c. 880, ss. 1, 2; 1993, c. 539, s. 1230; 1994, Ex. Sess., c. 24, s. 14(c); 2011-183, s. 11.) Effect of Amendments. - Session Laws 2011-183, s. 11, effective June 20, 2011, substituted "Armed Forces" for "armed forces" in subdivision (a)(4).

Source: official North Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina § 14-288

What does North Carolina General Statutes § 14-288 cover?

Section 14-288 ("20. Certain weapons at civil disorders.") is part of the North Carolina General Statutes, the codified statutory law of North Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite North Carolina § 14-288?

A common citation format is "North Carolina General Statutes § 14-288" (North Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of North Carolina law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Carolina attorney.

How does North Carolina § 14-288 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in North Carolina.