Expert: n/a - 2/25/2009

Question
Hello.  I was convicted of robbery in Montana in 1997.  I have since completed my parole, and now live in Texas.  To the best of my knowledge, Montana automatically restores your right to own guns when you complete parole.  Does this restore my rights in Texas?  Or is there another process I need to go through.  Thanks for your help.

Answer
According to the Federal firearm codes your firearm rights are only restored if you receive restoration of rights with no restrictions. 18. 921(a). As far as I know there is no such thing as firearm rights being automatically restored in any state.  State laws can not supercede federal laws. Your rights to vote may be restored automatically, firearms NO.  Also if your conviction was armed robbery your firearm rights are gone for good unless you receive a full pardon.  Your rights are definately not restored in Texas unless you have full restoration of rights from Montana (on paper).

Another state can not give you restoration of firearm rights.  They may comply with another states certificate of rehabilitation/relief,
executive clemency or other firearm relief.   

Good Luck