Expert: n/a - 9/21/2008

Question
Hello Don,

I have a question regarding CHL between Ohio-Florida.

I had a Felony Expunged in the State of Ohio, filed for a CHL on last Monday and got a call from the Sheriff Friday of the same week, stating that, "the CHL was approved, come pick it up"....That said, I Own a Home in Florida and want to apply for a CHL in Florida as well. My Question relates to the expunged felony.....in the state of Ohio, since it was expunged, I can answer truthfully that I never had a felony (it was expunged, and all rights restored). The concern I have it that the Florida Application states "Federal convictions occuring in another state require restoration of civil and firearm rights by the state in which the conviction occured (OHIO). If you were convicted of a felony under federal law (I was), you must have a presidential pardon, or have been granted federal relief from disabilities. If your civil rights and firearms rights have not been restored as described above, or if you can not provide proof of restoration of civil rights and firearm rights, you are not eligible for a Concealed Weapon or Firearm License.

I do have a CHL in Ohio, want to apply in Florida. However I did not get a presidential pardon, or, have been granted federal relief of disabilities.

I am confused, and do not want to answer "NO" to the Felony Question on the Florida Application as I am aware, lying on the form can cause other legal problems...however, in the state of Ohio, if  the Felony was expunged, you can check the "NO FELONY" block with out further legal problems.....

Sorry for the Hemmingway, but I wanted you to have all of the details before I apply in Florida, check the "NO FELONY" block, and find myself in a pickle.

Thank you Sir, for your anticipated response.

Regis

Answer
If you have an expunged felony you answer no throughout the whole country not just the state that gave you the expungement.  Florida recognizes restoration of rights and they will go by what is on your records from the FBI.  Try Virginia non resident permit they definately will accept your expungement even if you told them about it on the application.


Good Luck