2nd Amendment and Right to Bear Arms/Old misdemeanor for marijuana

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Expert: - 1/17/2011


Question
I have read a bunch of your answers and you seem to imply that any drug offense will bar you from owning a gun. The FBI web site says drug use is exemplified by a drug charge within the last year or multiple in the last 5 years. If it has been 5 years since I plead no contest to the charge and it was a misdemeanor and I have nothing on my record since then will I be able to buy a shotgun in AZ?

Answer
Andy,

Thanks for asking. Even though Arizona is a gun friendly state, a drug charge on your record will most likely show up on the background check. With legal help, you can file to expunge that record, and that should clear you to purchase a shotgun.

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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