Expert: n/a - 10/5/2008

Question
I was arrested at 16 with a small amount of hallucinogens, a Class 3 Felony in Colorado.  I went through the Juvenile Diversion program, pleading guilty, and the case never went to court.  I spent 1.5 years in the program and then 3.5 years later (5 yrs from conviction) had the juvenile felony conviction expunged.

I am now almost 24.  It has been about 8 years since the incident, and 3 years since the conviction was expunged.  I received the drug possession conviction when I was 16.

In Colorado am I already eligible to possess a firearm, or must I go through some additional reinstatement process?

Thanks!

Answer
Your Juvenile record does not ban you from firearm ownership as long as you were not tried as an adult.  If I were you I would apply for my Concealed Weapons Permit first so when you go to purchase a weapon you have the proof that you are not banned from firearms.  It is a fact that you will fail the NICS check without the permit and you would have to appeal and wait for BATFE to clear you.  Too much time wasted.  Have all your expungement papers ready.


Good Luck