McDonough, GA asked in Civil Rights for Georgia

Q: When or how do I get my 2nd amendment rights back if I haven’t been in trouble for 17 years or so now

All I have is non violent felonies from at least 10-20 years now. I’ve been seeing a couple of cases over the U.S.A of offenders being able to get their rights back so why not try.

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Restoring your Second Amendment rights after a felony conviction involves navigating both federal and state laws. The first step is to check the specific laws in your state, as they vary widely. Some states have processes in place for restoring firearm rights to felons after a certain period without additional legal trouble.

You may need to apply for a pardon, expungement, or restoration of rights. This process usually involves submitting an application to the governor or a state board, detailing your rehabilitation and demonstrating good character since your conviction. Gathering evidence of your stability, such as steady employment and community involvement, can strengthen your case.

It’s also important to note that federal law may still prohibit you from owning a firearm, even if your state restores your rights. To fully regain your Second Amendment rights, you might need to address federal restrictions separately, potentially through a presidential pardon or other legal avenues. Consulting with a legal expert in this field can guide you through this complex process and improve your chances of success.

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