Expert: Robert P. Firriolo - 4/7/2009

Question
I'm considering applying for a pistol permit in Suffolk County New York. I want a permit which will allow me to use the pistol on a range. I'm not applying for carry.

I take antidepressants and have done so for years. The application asks if I suffer from a "mental illness"? Do I answer "yes"? There's a section which asks if I take antidepressants, which I intend to answer "yes" to.

Thanks!

Answer
I cannot give you legal advice and tell you how to fill out your application. Moreover, you say you have been taking antidepressants for years, but you don't say if you have been diagnosed with clinical depression. That makes it hard for anybody to answer your question.

Even assuming that you have been so diagnosed, whether SCPD considers depression to be a "mental illness" for the purpose of the license application question is something only SCPD can answer definitively. You need to answer every question accurately, and if you don't understand how SCPD interprets "ever suffered any mental illness" in question 40, you can't answer it properly.

If you have questions about the application, you can call the SCPD at 631-852-6311. It is advisable to make a note of the name of the person with whom you speak, along with the date and time of the conversation. Even better would be to write to the Pistol Licensing Bureau (30 Yaphank Ave., Yaphank, NY 11980) and ask your question, so you can get the answer in writing. Remember to enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for the reply. All of this is explained on the instructions you should have received with the application.

Good luck to you.