Expert: Dan Haynes - 3/19/2010

Question
20 years ago,in the state of Florida, I used a gun in self defense of a robbery.  One robber was shot and the others ran. Undercover officers saw the whole thing.  To make a long story short, carrying concealed in Fla was a misdemeanor.  I turned myself in the next day and eventually pleaded guilty to carrying a concealed weapon.  I served one year probation, paid his hospital bill($10,000) and was told my record would be expunged after 10 years without any additional trouble during that time.   

Can I get a carry permit in PA?  Is there a legal procedure needed to expunge my record in Fla and will that incident harm my permit app.?  Should I go through that procedure before applying for a permit?

Otherwise, I've never been arrested and have never been convicted of a felony.

Thank You.  Pat

PS  Without that gun, I don't think I'd be here today to ask this question.

Answer
Patrick,

I thank you for asking and do agree that without the gun you may not be here today. Since it has been 20 years, and your record was supposed to be expunged after 10 years, you should be good.

I see no reason that you should not get your carry permit so IMHO go ahead and apply.

Best wishes to you and I hope that you never have to go through another incident like that.

Thanks,

Dan