Expert: Robert P. Firriolo - 3/5/2009

Question
I am a soldier returning from OEF Afganistan just did 1 year combat tour there i would like to get my pistol permit but 16 years ago i plead to a felony robbery 3rd I was told to apply and if rejected then apeal and go from there is this posible would be able to get one the army let me why wouldnt the state

Answer
If you are a convicted felon then you are prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law. You need to go back to the state where you were convicted and seek what is know as relief from disability or a gubernatorial pardon (also known as executive clemency).

After the disability is removed, there will still be a question of whether you can get a pistol permit that depends on state law. Some states are "shall issue," meaning that there is a list of objective criteria for a license. Other states are "may issue," meaning that getting a license is at the discretion of the government, and your past conviction could be an impediment to your application. I cannot tell you more without knowing what state you were convicted in and what state you plan to apply for a permit.

Good luck to you, and thank you for your service.