I heard that sometimes criminals lose their right to possess weapons. Is this true even for non-violent crimes?

Losing Gun Rights

answer by Phil Hache

Question:  I heard that sometimes criminals lose their right to possess weapons. Is this true even for non-violent crimes?  I was convicted of a Petty Theft a few years ago.  Now I want to get a gun to take to the shooting range, but not sure if I lost all my gun rights based on the Petty Theft conviction.

If I did lose my gun rights based on this conviction, is there a way to get them back.  Not the end of the world if I can’t I guess, but would like to know.  Also, the theft was in Los Angeles, CA if that helps.

Also, if I get my Petty Theft expunged, would that re-invoke my gun rights in the event there is currently an issue with them?

Answer: It is possible to lose your right to own guns based on certain criminal convictions.  This is not usually the situation in non-violent misdemeanor cases unless possession of weapons or gang related issues are in play.

If you were convicted of a petty theft, it is very unlikely that there are any gun restrictions.  If you are on probation, you should verify the terms of your probation.

In regards to the expungement, getting your theft conviction dismissed is a good idea even if there are no gun right issues for you at this time.  There is more information about getting your Petty Theft conviction dismissed here: Getting your conviction dismissed  / Expungement

I have been very successful and getting criminal convictions dismissed for my clients and would be happy to assist you on the process.

Sincerely,

Philip Hache
Criminal Defense Attorney
Los Angeles County