FLORIDA PARDONS AND RESTORATION OF GUN RIGHTS

An individual convicted of a felony in Florida loses their civil rights, including the right possess or use firearms and ammunition. In Florida, any individual that is not prohibited by law and is over the age of 21 may purchase and possess firearms and ammunition, vote, and obtain a concealed weapons permit. However, if you are a Florida resident and you have a felony conviction or certain misdemeanor convictions in Florida, federally, or in another state, you have likely lost the right to purchase and possess ammunition or firearms. Although some states automatically restore civil and firearm rights for certain individuals after a period of time, Florida is not one of those states. In Florida, these rights can be restored through the process of Clemency or by obtaining a Pardon.

So what is the process for restoring my firearm rights? When I get my firearm rights back, can I purchase, possess, or use a firearm in Florida and other states? In Florida, the process for restoring your firearm rights can be completed through the Clemency Board regardless of whether you wish to seek Clemency or a Pardon. Once restored, you will be able to purchase and own firearms and ammunition in Florida as well as most other jurisdictions depending on the laws of that state.

To restore your firearm rights through the Law Office of David M. Goldman, we have a two-step process. First, you will need to contact our office and speak to a member of our Restoration Team or fill out an intake online. From there, we will complete legal research and conduct a background check to ensure you are eligible to restore your rights. This first step is only $495.00 unless you have more than 5 criminal cases on your record, in which case it is $990.00. Once we have determined your eligibility, step 2 is to obtain all the necessary supporting documents, prepare, and file your application with the Clemency Board for an additional $995.00. Should you wish to apply for both Clemency and a Pardon at the same time, we can do so at no additional charge to you.

Although it is a rarity, depending upon the circumstances, the Clemency Board may wish to request a hearing to determine your right to possess and own a firearm in Florida after reviewing your application. Should this occur, you may also retain the firm to represent you at the hearing.

Eligibility requirements to restore your firearm rights in Florida are as follows:

You must have completed all sentences imposes as well as any conditions of supervision, including but not limited to: parole, probation, community control, controlled release, and conditional release. The date of completion must be no less than 8 years prior to the date of your application for Clemency and 10 years prior for a pardon.
You cannot have any outstanding monetary obligations to the court including fines, fees, restitution, or court costs resulting from any criminal conviction or traffic infraction. **Depending upon the type of financial obligation to the court, you may also be eligible to have those costs waived or reduced through the Clemency Board.**
You cannot have a valid standing Injunction for domestic violence against you at the time of your application.

If you have been convicted of a crime in a federal, military, or out-of-state-court, you are not eligible to apply for the restoration of your rights in Florida. (Rule 5D of the Executive Clemency Board of Florida).

Once your application has been filed and accepted by the Clemency Board, it will be your responsibility to maintain contact with the Board and update them on any changes in address, phone number, or other contact information.

If you would like to start the process of restoring your firearm rights on Florida, contact a Jacksonville Restoration of Firearms Rights Lawyer who can let you know if you are eligible to get your gun rights restored.