Expert: n/a - 8/17/2008

Question
27 years ago at age 18 I was caught/convicted of 2nd degree burglary in CA. I got 30 days jail and 2 years probation. Smartened me right up. No other crimes/convictions before that or since then.

I tried to buy a handgun about 5 years ago and was turned down after the Fed check. I also tried to get an AL CCW permit and was told that I didnt qualify due to the CA conviction and that AL wont issue a CCW to anyone ever convicted of theft.

I figure that AL law is AL law, so I cant carry here. OK.

Any idea why a misdemeanor theft conviction would disqualify me federally from owning/buying a firearm?

What agency would I contact to find out how to go about clearing this up?
Thx, Mitch

Answer
You have to get restoration of rights from the state you was convicted in.  You are not restricted as far as Federal law is concerned but some states wont allow you to buy a firearm with certain misdemeanor convictions.  Try getting a Virginia non resident permit first.  Go online to Virginia state police you can call them and ask do you qualify for a non resident gun permit they will give you an answer on the phone.

Good Luck