AboutRobert P. Firriolo Expertise General constitutional (Second Amendment) and federal firearm law inquiries. New York State and New York City laws and regulations on firearms. Use of force in self-defense.
Experience Over 20 years of grassroots activism, including involvement in campaigns and elections; writing and editing articles, letters, press-releases, policy papers, and op-ed columns; interaction with firearm regulatory agencies on behalf of clients; former board member and current legal advisor to the board of sportsmen's and firearm civil rights organizations; pro-bono representation of select firearms-related legal cases; debated leaders of the gun-control lobby on national television. Lecturer on lawful use of deadly physical force and crime prevention.
Education/Credentials Attorney at law. Extensive independent study and research in this field. NRA-certified firearms instructor (rifle, pistol, shotgun, home firearm safety, personal protection) and Range Safety Officer.
Awards and Honors Martindale-Hubbell "AV" Peer-Review Rating.
Expert: Robert P. Firriolo Date: 3/27/2008 Subject: Erie County NY Unrestricted Permit
Question I live in erie County in NYS and am looking to apply for a permit. Can I get an unrestricted permit for personal protection, assuming I have nothing to prevent issuance of same? Do I have to justify having it, or is saying personal protection enough?
Answer I am not sufficiently familiar with Erie County licensing practices to answer your question. However, the 2007-2008 update to the Guide to Firearms and Weapons Laws in New York states that for Erie, "Licenses are usually restricted. Other permits [sic] may require a personal interview with local court."
I suggest you call the county pistol license clerk, Willmer Fowler, at 716-858-6600, and ask what "proper cause" one is required to demonstrate to obtain an unrestricted license.
