Expert: n/a - 9/10/2008

Question
I was convicted in Kansas as a juvenile of Auto Burglary a felony. Now I never even was aware that it was a felony. After I turned 21 I purchased several guns...long guns and pistols and cleared the NICS check. Then after trying to get a rifle out of a pawnshop i had taken it to I was denied on the NICS check. So I went through the appeals process and applied for a UPIN #. The FBI sent me my rap sheet (wich had the felony on it) and a letter telling me that the finger print card i sent in with the appeal letter did match the one they used to deny me...But "after further review we have determined that you are eligble to purchase firearms." And they sent me a UPIN # to use when I purchase a gun so the NICS check goes smoothly. Well I have purchased several guns since and have had no problems. So my question or questions are this...Is it because i was a juvenile that this felony does not disqualify me from firearms?...or is it that auto burglary is not a violent crime? I don't understand. Because I have done alot of research short or talking to an actuall lawyer and most everything I have found says...if you have been convicted of a felony juvenile or not...you can't own a gun.

Answer
Well listen go back to those Lawyers and tell them to give up their licenses to practice Law because they don't no the Laws.  According to Federal Laws if you are convicted and tried as a Juvenile you are not disqualified from owning firearms.  That is why BATFE gave you the go ahead to purchase and pass the NICS check.  But as an adult a Felony will ban you for owning, transporting or possessing a firearm it does not matter if it's a violent crime or not.  Also a domestic violence misdemeanor will prevent you from having a firearm as well.  You need to apply for a firearm permit.  

Good Luck