Expert: n/a - 11/23/2008

Question
in the early 90s i was charged with attempting to possess a firearm in long island ny. i paid a 500.00 fine for a third degree midemeanor,no probation.how can i get my rights to buy and carry a handgun restored.i am a lifelong resident of pa.

Answer
You have a misdemeanor offense that is not domestic related, therefore; you have not lost your firearm rights. Unless for some strange reason you signed away your rights in court.  If you reside in PA you qualify for a firearm permit if they won't grant you one for whatever reason get a Virginia non-resident permit they have reciprocity in PA.  You can get that application at the Virginia State Police website one of the easiest and fastest CCW permit to qualify for.  If you signed away your rights you will need a certificate of relief from the probation dept. in LI with no restrictions.  I don't think that waiver will show up on your FBI fingerprnts so it won't be needed if you apply for an out of NY state firearm permit. Remember the Federal Gov't make firearm laws not NY or any other state they have to abide by federal laws. (ATF)


Good Luck