A North Carolina felony conviction has many consequences for the individual. A felony conviction can affect the person’s ability to find a job and find a place to live in addition to the penalties ordered for the conviction, which may include prison time, fines, probation, and other punishments depending on the criminal charge. Unfortunately, the consequences of a felony charge do not end with the punishment ordered by the judge. One of the questions we are asked by many of our clients is whether they will be able to own a gun after a felony conviction.
Felony Convictions and Owning a Gun
North Carolina criminal law essentially prohibits individuals with felony convictions from possessing or owning a firearm. In fact, if you have been charged with a felony but not convicted, you may not own or possess a firearm during the pendency of your criminal case. According to the statutes, a firearm is defined as “any weapon, including a starter gun, which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, or its frame or receiver, or any firearm muffler or firearm silencer.” Punishment for violating this law, you will be punished under the Class G felony statutes.
There are a couple of exceptions to the “firearm by felon” law. Anyone with a felony conviction may still possess and own antique firearms manufactured before 1898 or a replica of an antique firearm. Antique firearms also include pistols, shotguns, and muzzleloading rifles that use black powder.
Can I Restore My Firearm Rights?
In some cases, you may be able to petition the court to restore your firearm rights after a felony conviction. If your conviction was expunged or you were pardoned, you may be eligible to own or possess a firearm. Because the laws governing possession and ownership of a firearm after a felony conviction are complex, you need to contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our criminal lawyers. We will review your case to determine if you are eligible for relief from the prohibition of owning or possessing a firearm after a felony conviction.
Contact an Experienced Jacksonville Criminal Defense Attorney
“Attorneys Who Aggressively Protect Your Rights”
The Trevor J. Avery Law Firm, LLP is a full-service Jacksonville Criminal and Civil law firm that is committed to providing results-driven legal representation to businesses and individuals seeking an alternative to large-firm representation. We focus on getting you the results you want while offering you a cost-effective solution to your legal needs. We understand that we work for our clients; therefore; our attorneys communicate regularly with each client to ensure that the client knows what is going on with the case.
When you have legal problems, you need an experienced legal professional in your corner. No matter the case, you should have an attorney working for you who knows the law and who has the experience to get results. We represent clients throughout Duplin County, Onslow County and the surrounding communities. Call our office at (910) 405-8459 or contact us online today for a free case evaluation.