GEORGIA RESTORATION OF FIREARM RIGHTS
TEXT YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS TO (770)515-9595 FOR IMMEDIATE INFORMATION REGARDING ELIGIBILITY, PROCESS, AND FEES.
If you have state felony convictions, or other restrictions on your criminal history that prevent you from legally owning a firearm in Georgia, you may be eligible for relief by petitioning for Restoration of Firearm Rights.
The Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles is responsible for the consideration of all clemency requests in Georgia. This includes Pardons, Restoration of Civil and Political Rights, and Restoration of Firearm Rights. To be eligible for a Firearm Restoration request you must have completed your last sentence at least five (5) years prior to applying and also been crime free in that time period. The restoration process involves the completion of an application packet containing numerous forms inquiring into your personal history, several consent forms to be completed, obtaining extensive documentation that must accompany the petition including your Georgia Criminal History (GCIC), corresponding Court records, proof of residency, identification and employment, three character letters from references of your choosing, military records if applicable, a personal statement and justification letter, and a detailed accounting of the facts surrounding each criminal conviction included in the request as paraphrased by you and your version of events. The completed Application packet first goes through a screening process and is assigned to a criminal investigator responsible for verifying all of the information and confirming all requirements have been met. Once the packet passes screening, all meritorious requests are forwarded to a special investigator for a thorough and rigorous vetting procedure. Finally, there is an in-person interview with each Applicant. The investigator concludes the process by preparing a file containing their conclusion of findings, a case summary, any related research relevant to the applicant, and their personal recommendation as to whether you are a deserving and suitable candidate for approval. The file is provided to each of the five (5) Board Members separately to review and consider irrespective of one another. Each member then issues a written decision to grant or deny the request; which is finally rendered by a majority vote.
The Board uses multiple factors when considering an Application. Some of these variables include the severity of the underlying charges, the length of time that has passed since the last conviction(s), if the Applicant has adequately demonstrated rehabilitation, a showing of accountability, and evidence of stability- whether that be through employment, family, education, or community involvement etc. The strength of the Application packet is critical for a successful outcome. The contents and presentation of the personal written statement is significantly impactful to the decision as the only opportunity to explain why the Applicant believes they are specifically deserving of the requested relief and share their personal story, show recognition of accountability or ways in which they were motivated to reform, offer relevant information that would support the request, and make a compelling argument for their case. Having guidance from experienced legal counsel is advantageous for ensuring the request not only exceeds criteria, but puts emphasis on any salient material that is persuasive or distinguishes unique qualifications that are favorable to the Applicant. Our office meticulously oversees and manages the preparation of the application, assists in providing the necessary documentation, obtains all necessary records from the Courts, and the criminal history report from the Georgia Crime Information Center. Our service also includes guidance drafting the written requirements and facilitates the submission of the final Application Packet to the Board. Navigating the complexities of this process can be difficult and time consuming- having the benefit of professional services cannot be overstated. Our office simplifies the process and promises that each Application is expertly completed with great attention to detail. We are strong advocates of the Second Amendment and strive to impart that passion to each Applicant and their petition.
The state of Georgia also allows for requests to restore firearm rights on felony convictions that were adjudicated in other states. If the request is approved, you will be legally eligible for the purchase and possession of firearms in the state of Georgia. It is important to note that firearm rights restored by the state of Georgia may not be recognized in other states. For those rights to apply in every jurisdiction, you would need to complete the process in the state where the conviction originated.
Georgia also does not offer relief for disabilities involving Federal convictions. To have firearm rights restored on federal convictions, you must seek an application for the restoration of firearm rights through the United States Department of Justice. Our office also handles these matters. Please refer to the federal firearm restoration page located on our website for additional information on federal relief.
Georgia’s 2024 Annual Report from the Board reported that roughly 20-25% of applications for firearm restoration were granted successfully. Our office had an approval rate of 70% that shows our Clients had an increased rate of relief compared to the State average.
Contact us now to receive more detailed information on eligibility, the overall process, a list of specific requirements, and our fees for services. We do not require in-person appointments, and offer daily consults by phone at no cost.
TEXT YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS TO (770) 515-9595 TO RECEIVE MORE INFORMATION NOW.