Expert: n/a - 6/6/2008

Question
QUESTION: I would like to know all of the route i can take to restore my right to carry and purchase a fire arm in pa. I had a theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property i received probation and a fine it was a mistedermener 3. it has been 12 years and i realized my mistakes.

ANSWER: According to Federal Laws a misdemeanor does not band your right to carry a firearm unless it has been a domestic violence conviction.  If Pa. does not want to give you a firearm permit just go online to Virginia State Police and download an application for a non resident firearm permit, it has reciprocity in Pa.

Good Luck

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: does it matter if the sentence could have been like 5 years im not sure how long but all i got was probation some tell me i can get one and some say no. but i will try what you said to do in va. however will i get in any kind of trouble from this at all as i do not like lieing and also looking over my shoulder i like to do things nice and legal. by the way thank you for your response.

Answer
It does not matter you can't get 5 years for a misdemeanor only a felony conviction carries more than 1 year.  You stated you have a misdemeanor, if so then you are not banned from purchasing, transporting or owning a firearm according to federal law.  I don't understand why you would be getting in any trouble for lying unless you have a felony instead of a misdemeanor.  If that is the case then you must get restoration of rights in the state of Pa.  

Virginia has non-resident concealed weapons permits which has reciprocity in Pa. all you have to do is go online and download the application, take a firearm class in any state with a fingerprint card.  The application ask have you ever been convicted of a felony in any state or a misdemeanor for domestic violence if your answer is no for both then you will qualify.