Expert: n/a - 6/20/2009

Question
can i restore my gun rights if i had a felony manufacturing drug charge in 1995 in CA? do i need to get it expunged before i try to restore my rights?

Answer
First was it a Federal Offense?  If not, you will still have a difficult time because manufacturing, trafficking and distribution of illegal drugs/Narcotics are considered a violent offense unlike possession alone.  California like NY, NJ, DC and MD are very strict states when it comes to firearms and felons.  I belive you have to get your conviction expunged because restoration of rights can be restricted more easily than expungements and Pardons. In other words you may get restoration of rights for everything except firearms.  You may have to consult with a good Civil Rights Lawyer.

Good Luck