Expert: n/a - 11/27/2007

Question
QUESTION: My husband just had his civil rights restored in the state of florida, however the certificate states that he cannot possess or own a firearm. he wants to be able to continue to hunt. is there any way around this so that he would be able to hunt with a firearm?

ANSWER: Congratulations on earning your Restoration of rights.  Does the Certificate specifically says that he can't own, possess or transport firearms or does it say it does not give him the right to do so.   The way they are written means a big difference.   If it states it does not give you the right to own a firearm the you are good you will just have to submit the Certificate to the Florida Dept. of Agriculture when applying for his Firearm permit.  On the other hand if it specifically states he can't own, possess or transport any firearm or weapons then he must apply for Florida Executive Clemency.   I get a lot of questions about the Florida restoration of rights process. I have a Florida Firearm License myself.  May I ask how long was the restoration process?  You can email me at urbanreit@aol.com.  Good Luck!!!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: the certificate says "grants his restoration of civil rights, except the specific authority to possess or own a firearm"...so which option does that fall under?

Answer
OK, I've done some Florida research because I see you are really serious about this.  He has to go online and look up FLORIDA EXECUTIVE CLEMENCY just like he may have received the first application.  This time he must copy the Application for Clemency Specific Authority to Own, Possess or use Firearms.  Follow the instruction on how to apply and send it to the address on the paperwork.  Don't forget to send a copy of the restoration of rights he already has.  Once again good luck.