Q: Can I legally own firearms with a juvenile conviction in CA?

A: In California, if you are convicted of a felony, regardless of your age, you are subject to a lifetime ban on gun ownership. This ban applies even to juvenile felony convictions, particularly for serious violent offenses like armed robbery. Your juvenile strike for armed robbery falls into this category of serious offenses that trigger firearm restrictions.

Furthermore, California law specifically states that "minors who have been convicted of certain offenses and are adjudged a ward of the juvenile court as a result of their conviction may not possess a firearm until the age of 30." As you mentioned being made a ward of the state at 17, this restriction would apply to your situation even if the lifetime ban did not.

There are potential pathways to restore your firearm rights, but they require specific legal processes. These options include petitioning to reduce your felony juvenile conviction to a misdemeanor (if it qualifies as a "wobbler" offense) or applying for a governor's pardon. For juvenile cases, having your case sealed may also help restore these rights, though any probation terms limiting firearm possession would need to be terminated.

I strongly recommend consulting with an attorney who specializes in firearms rights restoration. These legal processes can be complex, and success often depends on demonstrating rehabilitation and having no subsequent criminal history. Your clean adult record may work in your favor, but professional legal guidance will be essential to navigate this process effectively.