Expert: n/a - 8/14/2008

Question
Approx 22 yrs ago I was convicted of B&E, served successfull probation. 18 yrs ago, convicted of marijuana trafficing, probation. Both were felonies in Ohio. I currently live in MI and would really like to be able to hunt with my father. I see that in Ohio rights may be restored thru petitioning the court or thru pardon. The questions are, do I hire a lawyer in Ohio or Michigan?

Also, thank you for all the help you provide.

Answer
I don't know what B&E is but if it's a violent crime then you may have a problem because drug trafficing is listed under the violent crime catagory in most states.  Therefore; you will have a different process than most applicants who have non-violent and/or only one conviction.  I have never heard of anyone using a Lawyer to apply for restoration of rights unless they were denied and appealed the decision.  Infact in NY you can't use a Lawyer until you are denied and appealed the decision.  You would have to return to Ohio to have your rights restored because that is were the conviction happened.  Also if you decided to apply for a Pardon Ohio is definately the only state that can do such not Michigan.  Some states do allow for out of state convicts to have their rights restored in their state if you now live there, but never a Pardon.

Good Luck