December 30, 2015 - Gary Rholes, Shelby County Attorney, has been investigating options for Shelby County in relation to the "Open Carry" law. He has since issued the following letter to officials and media in the county:
I have reviewed statutes and Attorney General opinions regarding the “open carry” law as it relates to the County. I regret that I was unable to attend Monday’s Commissioner Court meeting, but would like to offer my opinion. First, I believe the consensus reached at the meeting that the existing sign regarding weapons be removed was clearly correct.
I am of the further opinion that the offices of the District Clerk and County Clerk can be designated as handgun free zones because they are offices that are essential to the function of government courts.
I feel it would be proper to consult the District Judges as to what offices they feel are necessary for the District Courts to function, but don’t believe they have the final say. Also, the County Judge and all the Justices of the Peace should have input since they operate government courts.
Lastly I would point out that any office where weapons are legally banned have to post signs that meet technical requirements that I will be glad to provide.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments you might have.
Respectfully submitted,
Gary W Rholes
Shelby County Attorney
