Federal Firearm Prohibition Law
Can I possess or buy a gun?
The Second Amendment to the Constitution protects our right to “keep and bear arms.” Article I, section 21 of the Pennsylvania State Constitution states: “The right of the citizens to bear arms in defense of themselves and the State shall not be questioned.” While the right to bear arms is clearly a constitutional right, that does NOT mean that the right is absolute. Both Federal and Pennsylvania laws limit or restrict firearm sales and possession. The primary Federal law, found at 18 U.S.C. 922(g) (1-9), makes it illegal for certain persons to possess or attempted to purchase a firearm. The law is often strictly enforced, and people that are found to have violated the law could face up to 10 years in prison and fines into the hundreds of thousands, or worse, depending on the situation and their criminal record.
Do I Have to be Convicted of a Felony to Lose My Second Amendment Right?
Many people know that a felony record prevents a person from possessing a gun, but many people are not aware that misdemeanor convictions or drug use can also prohibit a person from possessing or buying a firearm. The law also prohibits anyone:
- Convicted of any crime punishable by more than one-year imprisonment — even if they are awaiting trial or are not sentenced to the full year
- Convicted of a misdemeanor or greater offense for domestic violence, including threatened but not actual violence
- Under a domestic restraining order or order for protection
- Adjudicated with a mental disorder or admitted to a mental institution
- Considered as fugitives, including those who may have fled to avoid conviction or testifying in a criminal proceeding
- With the immigration status of illegal alien or alien with a non-immigrant visa
- Deemed a drug user or addict
- Service members who were dishonorably discharged from the military
Facing the Loss of Your Rights? Charged With Possession? Call Us
Whether you face the potential loss of your Second Amendment rights or you have been charged with possession as a prohibited person, we encourage you to contact JD Law for a free initial consultation with an attorney. Call our State College criminal defense law firm at (814) 689-9139 or send us an email, and a lawyer will contact you.