AboutDan 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 cannot answer questions that require legal consultation 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.
Expert: Dan Haynes Date: 3/19/2008 Subject: restoration of firearms ownership
Question I pleaded guilty to misdemeanor domestic violence and waived my right to trial in Cedar Rapids Iowa in 1990 not knowing they would pass laws in the future taking away my legal right to posses firearms. Must I pay for this mistake for the rest of my life? I thought that is why they have Felony and misdemeanor classifications on offenses? Losing ones civil liberties over a misdemeanor conviction does not seem right . The law is not retroactive which also seems wrong as far as double jeopardy goes. Do you have any advice as far as restoring my civil rights on this matter? I have tried contacting several lawyers but none seem to want to assist me ?
Answer Dear Mr. Sims,
In today's anti gun climate, domestic violence can cause problems even if the original offense was a misdemeanor. Here is the link to a report on Iowa domestic vilolence.
In Iowa, a person may seek relief from domestic abuse by asking a court to issue a protective order. The protective order restrains the alleged abuser from committing further acts of abuse or threats of abuse. Iowa district court judges issue approximately 2,500 permanent protective orders in domestic abuse cases each year.
Since 1994, federal law prohibits a person who is subject to a qualifying court restraining order for domestic violence from possessing firearms or ammunition.
As per the above there is a process by which you can seek relief. This process may still require legal assistance.
I hope that I have answered your questions. If I can be of any further assistance please contact me again.
