Basics About Felons and the Right to Possess Firearms

Basics About Felons and the Right to Possess Firearms

Your neighbor has invited you hunting or you want to buy a gun to protect your home. You did your time long ago and are not even on parole or probation anymore, so what’s the problem with owning a gun? The problem is you are a convicted felon, and as such the federal government says it will never allow you to possess a firearm. Federal Guidelines: Owning: You cannot buy a gun. Obviously, buying one in a store will be a problem because of the background check, and if you attempt to circumvent that issue by buying a gun in a private sale or at a show, you are still breaking the law and the consequence can be a prison term. What is a firearm? Rifles, shotguns, pistols, revolvers or any other gun including musket loaders are considered firearms. Ammunition: Convicted felons have gone to prison for having a bullet, shell casing or other ammunition in their possession. The law believes if you have ammunition the gun can’t be far away, so even if it isn’t present, you are in violation of federal law by having any type of bullet or shell casing in your possession. Weapons in the home: Some people will tell you that your family members or roommates can have guns in the home, and as long as they are not yours and they’re under lock and key, you will be within the law. Think again. Many former offenders have been sent to prison when it was discovered they lived in a house where guns were kept. In a vehicle. Before getting into a car, it is a good idea to be sure there are no guns present. If an officer pulls the vehicle over, discovers a weapon in the car or trunk and finds out you are a convicted felon, you will be taken into custody on the spot. In the news: Regaining Gun Rights Final thought: Only an attorney should advise you about individual cases, but in general, it is in your best interest not to live where guns are kept, ride in cars where guns are present or go hunting with the neighbor. Related: Will States’ legislation hold up in court?