Expert: n/a - 6/6/2009

Question
hi--
in march of 2008 i plead guilty to a misdemeanor marijuana charge (poss of more than 1 oz).  i received community service which i served.  in april of this year i went to purchase a hand gun and was denied because i have a "drug offense."  how long can they deny me for a marijuana misdemeanor?  thanks!

Answer
First I need to know what State you are living in, second in most States when you have a conviction you must receive a firearm permit before you can purchase a weapon, third most states require 5 years to lapse after a misdemeanor conviction before you an purchase a firearm and/or receive a firearm permit.  Also in some states like Pennsylvania you must get a certificate of relief for any drug conviction before you can get a firearm or permit.  You are not restricted from firearms according to Federal Firearm codes but as you know every state is allowed to add their own restrictions.


Good Luck