How to Restore Your Gun Rights After a Felony Conviction in Arizona

According to ARS 13-904, a felony conviction in Arizona means automatic loss of firearm rights. However, restoring gun rights after a felony conviction is possible if you meet specific eligibility requirements and complete all aspects of your sentence, including probation, parole, and payment of fines and restitution. In this article, we explore the process of restoring your gun rights after a felony conviction in Arizona.

Eligibility Requirements for Restoring Gun Rights

Before you can begin the process of restoring your gun rights in Arizona, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. These requirements include:

  • Completing all aspects of your sentence, including probation, parole, and payment of fines and restitution.
  • Waiting for your conviction to become eligible for restoration. This varies depending on the nature of your felony conviction.
  • Demonstrating good cause for restoration of your gun rights. This may include employment or self-defense reasons.
  • No additional felony convictions or prohibitive offenses.

Once you meet these eligibility requirements, you can proceed with restoring your gun rights in Arizona.

The Process of Restoring Gun Rights in Arizona

The process of restoring your gun rights after a felony conviction in Arizona involves multiple steps:

Step 1: Obtain a Discharge Certificate

The first step in restoring your gun rights in Arizona is obtaining a discharge certificate. The certificate must state that you have completed all aspects of your sentence, including probation, parole, and payment of fines and restitution. You can request a discharge certificate from the probation department, court, or prison where you served your sentence.

Step 2: File a Restoration of Civil Rights Petition

After obtaining a discharge certificate, you must file a restoration of civil rights petition with the court where you were convicted. The petition should include:

  • Your personal information, including name, address, and contact information.
  • The nature of your felony conviction and the year of your conviction.
  • Details of your sentence completion, including probation, parole, and payment of fines and restitution.
  • Reasons for restoration of your gun rights, such as employment or self-defense reasons.
  • Any supporting documentation, such as reference letters or employment records.

After filing your petition, the court will schedule a hearing to determine your eligibility for restoration of your gun rights.

Step 3: Attend a Court Hearing

The court will schedule a hearing to determine your eligibility for restoration of your gun rights. At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to testify and present evidence supporting your petition. The court will consider your petition, your testimony, and any supporting evidence before making a decision on the restoration of your gun rights.

Step 4: Receive a Court Order

If the court grants your petition for restoration of your gun rights, you will receive a court order restoring your gun rights. The court order should be submitted to local law enforcement agencies and the Department of Public Safety to update your criminal record and remove any restrictions on your firearm possession.

Conclusion

Restoring your gun rights after a felony conviction in Arizona is possible if you meet specific eligibility requirements and complete all aspects of your sentence, including probation, parole, and payment of fines and restitution. The process involves obtaining a discharge certificate, filing a restoration of civil rights petition, attending a court hearing, and receiving a court order. If you need assistance with restoring your gun rights, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who can guide you through the process and help you regain your firearm rights.

For more information about restoring your gun rights after a felony conviction in Arizona, please visit Gun Rights Restoration in Arizona