Can A Felon Regain Firearm Rights After 10 Years In Arizona?

As of September 24, 2022, a significant change in Arizona law now ensures that first-time felony offenders automatically regain their firearm rights once they successfully complete their probation or are fully discharged from prison. This development is governed by A.R.S. § 13-907(A). However, it’s crucial to note that this restoration of firearm rights is contingent upon the individual meeting another important requirement: the payment of all restitution orders imposed upon them as part of their sentencing. This update signifies a noteworthy shift in the state’s approach to gun rights for individuals with prior felony convictions, streamlining the process of restoration while emphasizing the importance of financial responsibility in the legal context.

In Arizona, there are specific criteria that disqualify individuals from purchasing firearms. These disqualifications are in place to ensure the safety and responsible ownership of firearms. If you fall under any of the following conditions, you are prohibited from buying a gun in the state:

1. Mental Health Disqualification: If a court has legally declared you as a danger to yourself or others due to mental instability or incompetence, you are ineligible to purchase a firearm. This restriction aims to prevent individuals with serious mental health issues from accessing firearms, which could pose a risk to public safety.

2. Felony Conviction or Probation/Parole Status: Individuals who have been convicted of a felony offense or are currently on probation or parole are not permitted to purchase firearms. This restriction is intended to keep firearms out of the hands of individuals who have committed serious criminal acts or are under legal supervision due to their past actions.

3. Non-U.S. Legal Residency: If you are not a legal resident of the United States, you are not eligible to purchase firearms in Arizona. This requirement ensures that only individuals with proper legal status in the country can acquire firearms, aligning with federal immigration and firearm laws.

By understanding these disqualifications, it becomes clear that Arizona’s firearm purchasing regulations prioritize public safety, responsible gun ownership, and compliance with both state and federal laws.

Which misdemeanors in Arizona result in restrictions on gun ownership? In the state of Arizona, firearm possession is prohibited for individuals who have been convicted of domestic violence offenses, but this prohibition applies specifically when the individual is serving a term of probation for that domestic violence conviction. This restriction aims to prevent individuals convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors from possessing firearms during their probationary period. Please note that this information is current as of January 5, 2023.