Unlawful carrying usually surfaces during another stop. Attacking the underlying charge is often what saves both the case and the firearm.
This charge comes up constantly in rural areas, where many people keep a pistol in the console. That is understandable when the nearest neighbor is half a mile away and you are driving at night in areas with very little light and very few people.
The problem arises when you are accused of another offense while that pistol is in the console or glove compartment. That becomes unlawful carrying of a weapon, most often alongside a DWI stop or a small amount of marijuana in the car. It takes what would ordinarily be a Class B misdemeanor, such as a first DWI or possession of marijuana under two ounces, and adds a Class A misdemeanor on top of it.
It gets more complicated because the state will often agree to dismiss the weapon charge if the firearm is forfeited. Frequently that pistol was a gift or came from a family member, which makes forfeiture a real loss. The stronger approach is usually to attack the underlying charge, the DWI or the possession case, in order to protect the firearm along with the client.
Citation: Texas Penal Code §46.02
Degree and classification: Class A misdemeanor generally. It can escalate to a felony under a newer provision covering carrying while disqualified under §46.04.
Statutory language: A person commits an offense if they carry a handgun while under 21 or while disqualified by a prior conviction, off their own premises or vehicle. Related provisions separately cover carrying while intoxicated and displaying a handgun in plain view.