Gun Rights Restoration in Tennessee: Your Path to Reclaiming Your Rights
In Tennessee, the right to bear arms is deeply rooted in our culture. For many, owning a firearm is a way of life—whether for hunting, sport, or self-defense. A felony conviction can strip you of this right, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. At Tennessee Expungement Lawyer, we specialize in helping individuals restore their gun rights through legal processes like expungement, restoration of citizenship, or obtaining a pardon. Our experienced team, serving all 95 counties from our Nashville area office, is here to guide you every step of the way.
Understanding Gun Rights Restoration
Gun rights restoration is the legal process of regaining your ability to possess and own firearms after a criminal conviction. In Tennessee, certain felony convictions result in the loss of this right under Tennessee Code § 39-17-1307. These include violent felonies, attempted violent felonies, felonies involving deadly weapons, or felony drug offenses. However, Tennessee law provides pathways to restore these rights under specific conditions.
Restoring your gun rights can open doors to employment opportunities, such as in security or law enforcement, and provide peace of mind for personal protection. The process is complex, involving both state and federal laws, but with our expertise at Tennessee Expungement Lawyer, we can help you navigate it successfully.
Methods to Achieve Gun Rights Restoration
There are three primary methods to restore your gun rights in Tennessee. Each has its own requirements and challenges, but our team is equipped to assist you in determining the best approach.
Expungement of Felony Convictions
Expungement erases your criminal record, treating the conviction as if it never occurred. According to Tennessee Code § 40-32-101, expungement can restore gun rights for eligible offenses. Many non-violent Class C, D, and E felonies qualify, such as theft, forgery, or certain drug possession charges. However, violent crimes, sexual offenses, and DUI convictions are typically ineligible.
To qualify for expungement, you must meet these criteria:
- The conviction must be for an eligible offense.
- You must have completed your sentence, including probation or parole.
- All fines, restitution, and court costs must be paid.
- Five years must have passed since completing your sentence for most felonies.
Our attorneys at Tennessee Expungement Lawyer will review your conviction to confirm eligibility. We handle the petition process, ensuring all paperwork is filed correctly and advocating for you in court. For example, if you were convicted of felony theft, we can help determine if it’s expungable and guide you through the process to restore your gun rights.
Restoration of Citizenship
Restoration of citizenship involves petitioning a circuit court to reinstate your civil rights, such as voting, serving on a jury, or holding public office. For non-violent felonies, this can include gun rights, especially since a 2018 change in Tennessee Code § 39-17-1307(c) allows those with restored rights to possess firearms. However, for violent or drug-related felonies, the court’s order must explicitly include firearm rights.
The process requires:
- Filing a petition in the county where you reside or were convicted.
- Demonstrating rehabilitation through character references and employment history.
- Showing that restoration serves the interest of justice.
Our team at Tennessee Expungement Lawyer can assess whether this path is viable for you. We prepare comprehensive petitions and represent you in court to maximize your chances of success.
Pardon from the Governor
A gubernatorial pardon is a powerful option that forgives the crime and can restore all rights, including gun rights. The process is rigorous, requiring an application to the Tennessee Board of Parole, which reviews your case and makes a recommendation to the governor. You must demonstrate significant rehabilitation and good character.
Our firm assists by:
- Gathering necessary documentation, such as letters of support.
- Crafting a compelling pardon application.
- Guiding you through the Board of Parole’s review process.
While pardons are rare, our expertise at Tennessee Expungement Lawyer increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
Federal Law Considerations
Restoring gun rights in Tennessee must also comply with federal law. Under federal law, a felony conviction prohibits firearm possession unless your civil rights are restored or the conviction is expunged or pardoned. Expungement or a pardon typically satisfies federal requirements, as the conviction is effectively nullified. For restoration of citizenship, the state’s restoration order must explicitly allow firearm possession to avoid federal restrictions.
Our attorneys ensure your restoration aligns with both state and federal laws, addressing any potential conflicts to secure your rights.
Why Legal Assistance is Crucial for Gun Rights Restoration
The legal processes for gun rights restoration are intricate, with strict eligibility criteria and procedural requirements. Mistakes in filing petitions or misunderstanding eligibility can lead to delays or denials. At Tennessee Expungement Lawyer, we provide:
- Expertise: Deep knowledge of Tennessee’s expungement and restoration laws.
- Statewide Coverage: Serving all 95 counties, from our Nashville base to every corner of Tennessee.
- Free Consultation: A no-cost initial meeting to evaluate your case and discuss options.
- Personalized Approach: Tailored strategies to fit your unique circumstances.
We handle all aspects of the process, from gathering records to representing you in court, making the journey as smooth as possible.
Benefits of Restoring Your Gun Rights
Restoring your gun rights does more than allow firearm possession. It can:
- Enhance employment opportunities in fields requiring firearm use.
- Restore your ability to participate in Tennessee’s cultural traditions.
- Provide peace of mind for personal and family safety.
A clean record or restored rights also improves prospects for housing, education, and community involvement, helping you fully reintegrate into society.
About Tennessee Expungement Lawyer
At Tennessee Expungement Lawyer, we believe everyone deserves a second chance. Our main office in the Nashville metro area serves clients across Tennessee’s 95 counties. Our services include:
- Expungement of criminal records.
- Restoration of civil and gun rights.
- Pardon applications.
- Comprehensive legal consultations.
Unlike many firms that charge for initial consultations, we offer a free, no-obligation meeting to explore your options. Furthermore, our client-centered approach and proven success make us a trusted choice for gun rights restoration.
Take the First Step Today
Don’t let a past mistake define your future. Restoring your gun rights is possible with the right legal support. Contact Tennessee Expungement Lawyer today for your free consultation. We’re here to help you reclaim your rights and move forward with confidence.
| Method | Eligibility | Process | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expungement | Non-violent Class C, D, E felonies; 5 years post-sentence; no new convictions | File petition; court review; TBI certification | Gun rights restored automatically |
| Restoration of Citizenship | Non-violent felonies; sentence completed; fines paid | Petition circuit court; prove rehabilitation | Gun rights may be restored if specified |
| Pardon | Any felony; strong evidence of rehabilitation | Apply to Board of Parole; governor’s approval | All rights, including gun rights, restored |
Get a 100% No-Cost Initial Consultation
We’re Here for You. Everything We Discuss Remains Confidential:
All consultations with Tennessee Expungement Lawyer are confidential. First, reach out now to talk about your charges and begin the process of clearing your criminal record. Click the button below to begin!
