2nd Amendment and Right to Bear Arms/Want to buy a shotgun

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Expert: - 8/11/2010


Question
Hello, there have been a lot of break ins in my community in
the past couple weeks and my wife and I are worried about
our security. We have an alarm but the burglars have broken
into several houses that have alarms as well. I want to buy
a shotgun for home defense but I'm not sure if I'm eligible.
When I was younger I got into trouble and was convicted of a
felony, but I was convicted as a youthful offender. I got
off of probation early and am not on any supervision of any
kind. I done a lot of research but I can find anything that
says I can't own a firearm. I hope you can help. Thanks.

Answer
Alex,

Thanks for asking. Unless you have had your felony record expunged or pardoned, you cannot own a firearm. A felony is considered a felony even as a youthful offender. In order to clear your record, you may need to find legal help.

I can see how you are concerned about your security, but the law is strict about convicted felons owning firearms.

Best regards,

Dan

2nd Amendment and Right to Bear Arms

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Dan Haynes

Expertise

I will answer questions on the 2nd amendment from both historical and present day applications. I will answer questions on the right to keep and bear arms and the significance of this right. I will not answer questions that require legal interpretation or those that are outside of my areas of expertise.

Experience

I have studied the 2nd amendment from a historical view. I have certified as an NRA Range Safety Officer. I am a Federal Firearms License holder, and have a CCW permit. Since 2004, I operated my own gunsmithing shop and offer custom pistolsmithing services. I have served a 4 year term as an elected offical on the Montrose Colorado City Council, becoming Mayor in my 4th year. I am well versed on the US Constitution and firearm laws.

Organizations
NRA, NAHC, M1 Garand Collectors Association

Publications
Smith & Wesson Club 1852 fall 2007 issue.

Education/Credentials
NRA hunter safety course, NRA Range Safety Officer training, Colorado CCW permit holder, Federal Firearm Licensee, professional pistolsmith.

Past/Present Clients
Valhalla Shooting Club

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