antler question

I recently found a six point buck on my property that had died earlier this season, before its antlers were shed. I do not know if it had succumbed to a hunter or whatever else the cause may have been, but it has been heavily preyed upon. At this point, there doesn't seem to be a scrap of flesh remaining. I would like to "harvest" its antlers for display.

My question is this- will the antlers separate from the skull on their own eventually? I don't want to saw them off- I want the "knobs" at their base to remain intact. Any ideas?

Anyone know if I'd be in violation of any game laws if I were to do this?

Thanks
Bob