Expert: Dan Haynes - 4/12/2010

Question
Greetings Mr. Haynes,
I am 50 years old and have purchased many firearms over the years. In the late 1990’s the Feds changed the classification of two of my shotguns to “destructive devices” and required registration of them. I sent in the paper work along with five (5) sets of finger prints for each “device”. After several months they sent all of my information back including the fingerprint files, but failed to send me the desired Federal Stamps now required for the shotguns (destructive devices).
When I called the BATF I was told that I was under a disability because of my ticket for less than 100 grams of marijuana in 1981 and again in 2000 (this was a borrowed car that I was in for less than 10 minutes).
They did not say that I had to get rid of any firearms only that I was under a disability for these actions. Since then I have found that I can no longer purchase new firearms.
I am a chemist by trade and pass many drug tests for employment.
How do I get relived of my “disability” so that I can again purchase firearms and obtain my concealed carry permit?

Answer
Greetings Darren,

Thanks for asking. In most cases drug related charges will hinder your firearm ownership capability. In order to get relieved of these charges you will need legal help to file for pardon or to see about expunging your record.

Best regards,

Dan