Authority to own a firearm
Under the Florida Office of Executive Clemency, an ex-offender who has “completed all sentences imposed and all conditions of supervision have expired or been completed, for a period of no less than 8 years” may apply for authority to own, possess or use a firearm.
In addition to waiting 8 years, “[y]ou may not have any outstanding detainers or pending charges, owe restitution, or have any pecuniary penalties or liabilities which total more than $1,000 and result from any criminal conviction or traffic infraction.”
If you qualify, you can apply for this authority by using and following the instructions on this form.
Unfortunately, “[i]ndividuals convicted in a federal, military, or out-of-state court are not eligible to apply.” which might present a legal argument.
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I guess I am a lucky one. My adjudication of guilt was withheld. After I completed probation and waited 3 years after. I bought my first firearm at a FFL. My background check came back conditional non approval while they investigated. Couple weeks later I was told to come in and pick up my firearm. I then applied for my Florida conceal carry license. I submitted the application along with my paperwork of my successfully completed probation. 72 days later I got my conceal carry license. and since then have purchased several firearms and all background checks come back approved.
That is great to hear. That is what I am going to try to do. It is great to hear that someone has had success doing exactly what I want to attempt. I will now tread the path more confidently. Trying to be a good citizen. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Andrew and Walt….i also did this. I own 2 pistols currently, registered in my name. Also if you’re interested i have my armed and unarmed security licenses, so if that’s something you’re into then you should be able to get it. The company i work for needs people. It’s not the greatest but it sure isn’t the worst. The withhold of adjudication is what allows all this to happen. For how long who knows though…. It’s really quite confusing but that’s Florida for you.
Jv, thank you for the positive info. The withheld adjudication has been a blessing for sure. It has allowed me to do tax work that I otherwise would not be able to do. I had planned on getting and learning how to use a pistol for my own peace of mind and then to get the concealed carry license. I am located in Broward county so if your company provides services in this area then I would be interested. I don’t know if I am the ideal candidate but when I was much younger I worked night security and security at concerts. I would be happy to talk more about it and explore the opportunity. I don’t know the best way to provide contact information through here.
How severe was your case with the withheld adjudication? I’m going through the same thing. It’s been almost 5 years since I completed my probation now I’m looking to lawfully purchase a firearm in Tampa.
As for restoration, I would not hold my breath. This is the same process as restoration of the other more “basic” civil rights or any other executive clemency. Wait forever, nothing will happen. Look at what the Legislature is doing now. They are trying to figure out how to wiggle out of the voting rights amendment just like they did the medical weed amendment.