Salt Lake City, UT asked in Civil Litigation, Criminal Law, Federal Crimes and Civil Rights for Idaho

Q: 2024 United States v. Duarte ruled 2 to 1 stating federal law is unconstitutional. My rights are restored can bear arms

I’m a non violent convicted felon in Idaho but the states constitution explicitly states felons are to not possess a guns is this unconstitutional?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered

A: The recent ruling in United States v. Duarte has brought attention to federal gun laws and the constitutionality of certain restrictions. Since your rights have been restored on the federal level, you might believe this ruling would apply to your situation. However, states can still have their own gun laws, and Idaho's constitution clearly prohibits felons from possessing firearms.

Even though the federal court ruling affects certain federal restrictions, states have the authority to enforce their own laws unless they directly conflict with federal rulings. Idaho's constitution might still be upheld in court unless successfully challenged as unconstitutional in light of the federal decision.

It may be wise to consult legal advice about whether United States v. Duarte can impact your ability to challenge Idaho's specific gun restrictions. Understanding how the ruling interacts with state law is crucial in determining the next steps for restoring your rights.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.