St. Petersburg Lawyer for Firearm Prohibition for Domestic Violence Conviction
When a person is accused of any kind of crime related to domestic violence, that individual faces not only the possibility of possible fines and imprisonment but also the loss of certain civil rights. One right that can be impacted by domestic violence convictions or court orders related to domestic violence is a person’s ability to possess or purchase a firearm.
Both state and federal laws affect the firearm rights of alleged offenders in domestic violence cases, and violations of these laws carry steep penalties. Anyone who has been accused of any kind of criminal offense related to domestic violence must understand how their rights have may be affected in order to avoid additional criminal penalties.
Attorney for Domestic Violence Firearm Rights in St. Petersburg, FL
If you are concerned about how a domestic violence-related offense could impact your firearm rights, it is in your best interest to immediately seek legal representation. The Morris Law Firm, P.A. defends people accused of domestic violence crime in Largo, Pinellas Park, Dunedin, Clearwater, and the surrounding communities in Pinellas County.
Melinda Morris and Seth Shapiro are a criminal defense lawyers in St. Petersburg who understand the collateral consequences domestic violence cases carry. Melinda Morris knows how these cases are prosecuted because of her prior experience as an Assistant State Attorney with the Sixth Judicial Circuit. Call (727) 592-5885 to have our attorneys provide an honest and thorough evaluation of your case during a free, confidential consultation.
Overview of Firearm Prohibition for Domestic Violence Conviction in Florida
- What laws prohibit individuals convicted of domestic violence offenses from possessing firearms?
- How does a domestic violence injunction affect a person’s firearm rights?
- Where can I find more information about firearm prohibitions for domestic violence convictions in St. Petersburg?
Firearm Prohibition After Domestic Violence Convictions in Pinellas County
The Lautenberg Amendment, established under 18 U.S. Code § 922, prohibits people convicted of misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence from shipping, transporting, possessing, or receiving firearms or ammunition. As part of the firearm sale or delivery process, Florida Statute § 790.065 requires all licensed importers, manufacturers, and dealers to conduct a Florida Department of Law Enforcement background check.
Buyers or transferees are prohibited from purchasing or receiving firearms if they either:
- Have been convicted of a felony offense;
- Have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence; or
- Have had adjudication of guilt withheld or imposition of sentence suspended on any felony or misdemeanor crime of domestic violence unless three years have elapsed since probation or any other conditions set by the court have been fulfilled or expunction has occurred.
Any violation of the state law is a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
Firearm Prohibition in Relation to Domestic Violence Protection Orders in St. Petersburg
Under Florida Statute § 790.233, possession of a firearm or ammunition is also prohibited when a person is subject to an injunction against committing acts of domestic violence, stalking, or cyberstalking. Any violation of this statute is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
Additionally, Florida Statute § 790.06 also prohibits the issuance of a license to carry a concealed weapon or firearm to any person who either:
- Has had adjudication of guilt withheld or imposition of sentence suspended on any misdemeanor crime of domestic violence unless three years have elapsed since probation or any other conditions set by the court have been fulfilled, or the record has been expunged; or
- Has been issued an injunction that is currently in force and effect and that restrains the applicant from committing acts of domestic violence or acts of repeat violence.
Florida Firearm Prohibition for Domestic Violence Conviction Resources
Firearm Purchase Program | FDLE — The FDLE’s Firearm Purchase Program is the primary contact for all background checks for firearm sales performed by federally licensed firearm dealers that occur within the state of Florida. Federally licensed pawn brokers may use the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) for background checks, and such searches may return different results from background checks at the state level. Visit this website to download forms and find answers to frequently asked questions.
Tampa Bay Regional Operations Center
4211 N. Lois Ave.
Tampa, FL 33614
Restoration of Civil Rights (RCR) | Clemency | Florida Commission on Offender Review — Convicted felons can submit an RCR application with the Office of Executive Clemency eight years from the date of completion of all sentences and conditions of supervision. In certain cases, the Clemency Board or an Examiner of the Florida Parole Commission may require a hearing. On this website, you can download a request for review application and instructions for commutation of sentence, search for rights already restored, and find answers to frequently asked questions.
Morris Law Firm, P.A. | St. Petersburg Firearm Prohibition for Domestic Violence Conviction Lawyer
Have your firearm rights been affected by a domestic violence accusation or conviction? You should contact Morris Law Firm, P.A. as soon as possible for help achieving the most favorable outcome to your situation.
St. Petersburg criminal defense attorneys Melinda Morris and Seth Shapiro represent clients throughout Manatee County, Sarasota County, Pasco County, Pinellas County, and Hillsborough County.
The Morris Law Firm can review your case and answer all of your legal questions when you call (727) 592-5885 or complete an online contact form to schedule a free initial consultation.
Why Choose Our Law Firm?
See the Difference Our Service Provides
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Melinda Morris is a former prosecutor and has handled thousands of criminal cases from investigation through sentencing enabling us to identify weaknesses in the State’s case against you.
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We never settle for the easiest outcome or the typical result. We know how to negotiate with the State Attorney and we will work to get you the best possible outcome.
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Melinda Morris has practiced criminal law for over 20 years. Our clients trust advice that comes from experience in nearly every type of criminal case.
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We will know every client’s story because we will take the time to listen and understand. You will work with your attorney one-on-one at every stage of the process.
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You will have the cell phone number of your attorney. Your attorney will directly return your call, email, or text to answer your pressing questions.
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The government is wasting no time in trying to prove your guilt, a proactive defense is imperative. Prompt and decisive action from your defense attorney is of critical importance.
CLient Testimonials
Hear From Real People We've Helped
At Morris Law Firm, P.A., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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Seth Shapiro is the most professional, courteous, caring attorneys I’ve dealt with in all of my 70 years. He did a fabulous job representing me defending me and getting charges dropped. I couldn’t have dreamed of better counsel.- Stephen on AVVO
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100% satisfied with Morris law group. Melinda was able to resolve my legal issues with no additional expenses other than my original retainer. I highly recommend this firm for professional and competent representation.- Peter R. on Yelp
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If you want the best legal representation, look no further than Morris law firm. Melinda reassured me from the very first time we spoke over the phone. She is very professional and keeps you updated on the progress of your case. I really liked that I didn’t have to reach out to her Everything was smooth, straightforward and she put my mind at ease. You’ll be in good hands with her. Thank you Melinda- Hassan on Google
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Mr.Shapiro helped my case by looking at the police body cam diligently which supported my testimony . He presented evidence to the prosecutor .I hired Seth Shapiro to defend me after a domestic battery charge in which I was wrongfully accused and arrested. My case was dismissed thankfully. .Couldn't have asked for a better outcome. This was an extreme difficult time for me. Seth Shapiro was knowledgeable and compassionate in my case. He followed up with my concerns. I would highly recommend this firm.- Melody Z.
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Melinda has represented me on numerous cases and the outcome has always been great. Melinda goes above and beyond to defend your rights and get you the best possible outcome. I highly recommend hiring her.- Shasta on Google
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Morris Law Firm is a very professional and responsive. They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful. Strongly recommend them especially Seth Shapiro. He decreased my case from felony to misdemeanor in short terms and during 6 months my case was totally closed.- Elina P. on Google