Atlanta, GA asked in Civil Rights and Criminal Law for Georgia

Q: I was locked up and held with no bond, charged with possession of firearm by a convicted felon.

I’m not a felon, I did first offender and completed it in 2012. My firearm which I purchased from a pawnshop was taken from me and I was detained

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: In Georgia, if you have completed a first offender program successfully, your rights should be restored, including the right to possess a firearm. However, misunderstandings or errors in legal records can occur, leading to situations like the one you're facing.

It's important to gather all relevant documentation proving your completion of the first offender program and any other evidence that supports your case. This could include paperwork from the court, certificates of completion, and any correspondence related to your first offender status.

Since you were charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, despite having completed the first offender program, you should seek legal representation immediately. An attorney can help you navigate the legal complexities and work towards rectifying this situation.

Your attorney can also assist in addressing the issue of your firearm being taken and your detention. They can work to clarify your legal status and advocate for the return of your property and the dismissal of the charges against you.

It's critical to address this situation promptly and thoroughly, as errors in criminal records can have significant and ongoing impacts. Legal counsel will guide you through the process of correcting these mistakes and defending your rights.

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