Expert: n/a - 3/31/2009

Question
QUESTION: i finished my sentence in fl. in 2005 on 2 non-violent felonies (possessions w/intent to sell cocaine). my ex-girlfriend said i received a letter that said my rights were restored automatically. i have not seen it because i live in michigan now, but i assume that it is a partial restoration. i have a three part question. (a.) should i request another copy of the so-call letter? (b.) should i wait until eight years have passed as required for full restoration or should i request it now? and (c.) can i live in a home with a firearm when my rights are partially restored.

ANSWER: Your firearm rights are not restored automatically that is against Federal Laws.  You have to apply for FULL restoration of rights in Florida not partial.  With partial restoration of rights you are still restricted from firearms.  Only Florida Executive Clemency Board can restore your firearm rights with the Governors signature.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: if i am denied full restoration can i reapply or are decisions final? should i wait until eight years have passed as required for full restoration petitions or should i request it now? only after four years.

Answer
You need to apply for firearm rights only.  If they gave you your regular rights back then it's not too soon to apply for firearm restoration.  If I was you I would send in my application right away because by the time they get to your application 2 years would have passed. Go to Florida Executive Clemency Board and download the application.

Good Luck