gun lawyer what can i do if i am denied gun purchase colorado

by Fidel Goldner 6 min read

Those detained under §5150 may become subject to a five year ban on firearms possession and denied a gun purchase. If your denial follows a §5150 detention, you can petition the superior court for an early termination of this five year ban. You should consider hiring an attorney to represent you.

If your application is denied you may appeal the decision, according to state law. Upon denial, you may write a request to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation asking for the exact reason you were denied, and the time, date, and place of the incident that disqualified you.

Full Answer

What should I do if my firearm purchase is denied?

If you firearm purchase denial was appropriate under the law, we can help you explore the available options to restore your firearm rights. We can also advise you of your firearm rights prior to the purchase of a weapon to avoid an embarrassing delay or denial.

How do I get my gun rights back in Colorado?

People who lost their gun rights due to a criminal conviction in Colorado may be able to get their gun rights restored through a Colorado Governor’s Pardon. Under the Colorado Constitution, Article IV, § 7, A pardon is an official forgiveness of the past crime, and it can restore many of the rights – including ...

Can a gun be denied due to a criminal conviction?

Also, sometimes a clerical error results in the denial of a lawful gun purchase. Denials Based On Criminal Convictions. The so-called “expungement” (i.e. the granting of a set-aside petition under the Penal Code does not restore firearms rights.

Can a non-resident purchase a handgun in Colorado?

People under 21 may not purchase handguns in Colorado. And non-Colorado residents may not purchase handguns in Colorado. A valid Colorado driver’s license or I.D. card should be sufficient to prove age and residency.

What disqualifies you from owning a gun in Colorado?

Under federal law, people are generally prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms if they have been convicted of a felony or some domestic violence misdemeanors, or if they are subject to certain court orders related to domestic violence or a serious mental condition.

Why did my gun background get denied?

In California, a gun purchase is often denied because the purchaser has been detained under Welfare & Institutions Code §5150, which provides for detention and a 72 hour mental health evaluation of a person considered a danger to himself/herself or others.

Can gun rights be restored in Colorado?

If you've been convicted of a felony offense, you may be able to have your gun rights restored by obtaining a Colorado Governor's Pardon. This is the public forgiveness of a past crime and will restore some of the rights you lost when you were convicted.

Does expungement restore gun rights in Colorado?

With a felony conviction, federal law removes the right to bear arms. That right can only be restored with an expungement (record sealing) – (for felony convictions the right to seek to seal – expunge a felony only exists in Colorado for certain types of Drug Crimes felonies) – or by the grant of a governor's pardon.

What happens if NICS denied?

Prospective firearms buyers who receive a “Denied” status on their background checks may have a state or federal firearm prohibition. The denied individual may choose to pursue a challenge and/or apply to the Voluntary Appeal File.

What is NICS denied transaction?

The NICS Denied Transaction File (NDTF) in NCIC is designed to share information regarding individuals who, having been determined to be prohibited persons according to the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act of 1993 (Brady Act), have been denied as a result of a National Instant Criminal Background Check System ( ...

How do I request a pardon in Colorado?

The Application Process There are no fees to apply for a pardon in Colorado. The Governor's office has not made its clemency/pardon application materials available on the Internet. In order to apply, you should contact the Governor's office directly at 303-866-2471 to have an application sent to you.

How do you get your record expunged in Colorado?

In Colorado, it is usually not possible to expunge or "seal" a conviction from your criminal record, even if you have completed probation. There are, however, exceptions, for municipal violations, petty offenses, crimes involving controlled substances, and a few other specific offenses.

Can a non violent felon possess a firearm in Colorado?

The alteration means that only felons convicted of a crime that falls under the Victims Rights Act are now prohibited from possessing a gun. People convicted of murder, robbery and felony assault, for instance, are still barred for life from having a firearm.

How much does it cost to seal your record in Colorado?

You can ask the court to seal your criminal record informally once your case is acquitted or dismissed. You can also file a JDF 417, which is a Petition to Seal Arrest and Criminal Records Other Than Convictions. However, the forms require a processing fee of $65 to petition for a record seal.

How long does a felony stay on your record in Colorado?

three yearsDrug Misdemeanor – two years after final dispositions or release. Class 4, 5, or 6 Felony – three years after final disposition or release. Level 3 or 4 Drug Felony – three years after final disposition or release. Class 1 Misdemeanor – three years after final disposition or release.

Can felons hunt in Colorado?

The answer appears to be yes as there is nothing in the law that prevents a person convicted of a felony crime from legally obtaining a hunting license in the state of Colorado.

What to do if you are denied a firearm?

What To Do If You Are Denied. If you believe you are wrongfully denied a firearm, you can request a firearm related challenge (appeal). By challenging a denial, a buyer will be provided with the reason the background check was denied and also be provided with an opportunity to challenge the denial. To challenge a firearm denial, you are required ...

What happens if you don't have a firearm denial?

When dealing with a challenge to a firearm denial, it is important to be detailed and thorough and to address the issue preventing you from buying a firearm.

How to challenge a firearm denial?

To challenge a firearm denial, you are required to provide a NICS Transaction Number (NTN) or a State Transaction Number (STN). If you are denied, make sure the seller provides you with this information. If you do not have this information, your process will likely be delayed or your challenge may not be processed.

What does it mean to be delayed in a firearm purchase?

The second option is you are delayed. This means that further inquiry is required into your background before a decision can be made. The final option is you are denied. If you are delayed and then denied or instantly denied, you will not be able to purchase the firearm. However, there are ways to challenge the denial of your firearm purchase.

What form do you fill out to buy a firearm?

When you walk into a store and want to purchase a firearm, the seller will require you to fill out a Firearm Transaction Record, otherwise known as ATF Form 4473.

What happens after you complete a firearm purchase form?

After completing the form, the seller will run your information you entered on the document. After processing the form, there are three options that may occur. One option is that you proceed forward with your firearm purchase and can buy the gun. The second option is you are delayed.

How many people own guns in 2020?

Criminal Defense. According to recent reports, approximately 72 million people in the United States own a firearm. Despite a global pandemic, gun sales boomed during 2020. In fact, the FBI has reported that it performed more than 3 million background checks in the NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check Systems) database in May of 2020.

Why is gun ownership denied in California?

In California, a gun purchase is often denied because the purchaser has been detained under Welfare & Institutions Code §5150, which provides for detention and a 72 hour mental health evaluation of a person considered a danger to himself/herself or others. Those detained under §5150 may become subject to a five year ban on firearms possession and denied a gun purchase.

How long can you be banned from possession of firearms in California?

In California, if your psychotherapist reports that you have made, "a serious threat of physical violence against a reasonably identifiable victim or victims", you become subject to a six month ban on firearms possession.

What is domestic violence denial in California?

Also, a California misdemeanor conviction deemed to be “domestic violence” under Federal law currently results in denial for life. If your denial was based on a criminal conviction, your attorney needs to know exactly which code section you were convicted of.

When did California ban antique firearms?

While this pre- 1991 California law applied only to handguns, convicted felons were still prohibited from possession of any modern firearm under provisions of Federal law and, beginning in 1991, the California firearm prohibitions were applied to all firearms, including antique firearms. This California prohibition was permanent except ...

Why do people lose their guns?

Also, sometimes a clerical error results in the denial of a lawful gun purchase.

Can you buy a firearm if you are charged with a felony?

If you are charged with a felony, you may not purchase or receive a firearm while such charges are still pending against you. Unless you are ordered not to possess firearms as a condition of release on bail or on your own recognizance, firearms already in your lawful possession may be retained.

Can you lose your gun rights in California?

Many California gun owners have lost their gun rights as a result of the issuance of a temporary restraining order against them; this can happen without notice and without the opportunity to oppose the issuance of a restraining order. The gun owner may not learn of this until they are served with a copy of the court order requiring the subject individual to relinquish their firearms to a law enforcement agency or sell them to, or store them with, a licensed gun dealer within 24 hours, and the officer serving the order may request immediate relinquishment.

What is the phone number to call if you were arrested for a weapon in Colorado?

Please call us today at 720-479-8574 or contact us online for your free consultation.

What are the consequences of a gun charge in Colorado?

The potential consequences of weapons-related criminal charges in Colorado include prison time and fines that can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. Because weapons charges often accompany other criminal charges, the accused may face both state and federal crimes, and penalties may be compounded. If you or a loved one was arrested ...

How to contact Wolf Law?

Please call Wolf Law today at 720-479-8574 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation.

What is illegal in Colorado?

Illegal weapons: In Colorado, it is a misdemeanor to knowingly possess an “illegal weapon,” which includes blackjacks, gas guns, switchblade knives or metallic knuckles. Intent is often an important factor in weapons-related charges.

What happens if you change your gun?

A firearm or other weapon change can have far-reaching consequences including incarceration and/or costly fines. A firearm or weapon charge can also limit a person’s right to own a gun in the future, job eligibility, and even housing opportunities.

How many guns were purchased in Colorado in 2017?

The same year, more than 360,000 guns were purchased in Colorado. According to a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives report, 4,905 firearms were traced and recovered in Colorado in 2017.

How long is a gun possession felony?

Unlawful purchase of a firearm: Class 4 felony punishable by two to six years in prison and/or a fine up to $500,000. Possession of a handgun by a juvenile: Class 2 misdemeanor punishable by three to 12 months in jail.

What are the gun laws in Colorado?

Such laws include (but are not limited to): Unlawfully carrying of firearms that are concealed — CRS 18–12–105.

How much jail time do you get for possession of a firearm in Colorado?

A fine of up to $500,000.

What law allows police officers to carry concealed weapons?

The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act allows qualified law enforcement agency officers and peace officers (current and retired) to carry concealed firearms even when state and local laws forbid concealed carry. (This amends the Gun Control Act of 1968 .)

What age can you own a gun in Colorado?

3 Things to Know About Colorado Gun Laws. An overview of Colorado gun laws. Colorado state law allows residents aged 18 and older to own or possess legal firearms and ammunition unless they are otherwise prohibited from doing so.

How old do you have to be to get a concealed carry permit in Colorado?

You can obtain a Colorado concealed carry permit if: You are a legal resident of the state of Colorado or you or an immediate family member is in the armed forces and is stationed pursuant to permanent duty station orders at a military installation in the state; You are twenty-one years of age or older;

How much is a misdemeanor for possession of a gun?

Punishment for misdemeanor gun possession can be as much as: 1 – 3 years in prison, and/or. A fine of $1,000 — $100,000. 3.

What is a legal firearm?

Legal firearms include: Handguns, pistols, revolvers, or other firearms with a barre l more than 12” in length (not counting any revolving, detachable, or magazine breech), Full-length rifles (long guns), Full-length shotguns, Antique firearms manufactured not later than 1898, and.

What is the background check for a gun in Colorado?

card should be sufficient to prove age and residency. Colorado residents age 21 and over must pass a Colorado Bureau of Investigations (CBI) background check before they can legally purchase a handgun. This requires the buyer to fill out an ATF form 4473 at the gun store.

How old do you have to be to buy a gun in Colorado?

The three requirements to purchase a handgun in Colorado include: being a Colorado resident, being at least 21 years old, and. passing a CBI background check. Handguns. A handgun is defined as a short-barrelled gun that may be held and operated with just one hand. Two common types of handguns include revolvers and semi-automatic pistols.

How long can you go to jail for a concealed carry charge?

People who fail to produce either if an officer demands to see them can get cited with a class 1 petty offense, carrying: up to 6 months in jail, and/or. a fine of up to $500.

What is the penalty for carrying a gun with no CCW?

The penalty includes: 3 to 12 months in jail, and/or. a fine of $250 to $1,000. A second or subsequent offense within five (5) years of a prior offense is a class 5 felony.

How long does it take to get a gun approved in Colorado?

The approval/rejection process typically takes less than a half hour. Then the buyer can leave the store with the gun right away and carry it openly. Learn more about Colorado’s open carry gun laws. Note that CBI background checks are required for private gun sales as well.

Can a gun store sell a gun in Colorado?

Any licensed gun store can perform one for a private sale. Disqualifications to buy a handgun in Colorado. A gun store may refuse to sell a firearm to an otherwise qualified buyer if he/she: is drunk or smells of alcohol, is high or smells of marijuana, or. seems to be under the influence of a controlled substance.

Can you carry a concealed weapon in Colorado?

Carrying a concealed handgun in Colorado. Coloradans who purchase handguns may not carry them concealed unless they also get a CCW (carrying concealed weapons) permit. In order to receive a CCW permit in Colorado, the handgun user must meet all the requirements listed above to buy a gun in addition to the following:

When did gun dealers use NICS?

Beginning in 1998 , federally licensed gun dealers and manufacturers were required to use NICS to obtain immediate information about prospective firearm purchasers to determine whether the individual is permitted to purchase a firearm.

Can you appeal a denial of a firearm purchase?

Unfortunately, many individuals that are denied a firearm purchase either do not know that there is an appeals process, or simply do not know how to appeal a firearm purchase denial.

Denials Based on Criminal convictions.

  • The so-called “expungement” (i.e. the granting of a set-aside petition under the Penal Code does not restore firearms rights. Depending upon the nature of your conviction, and whether you are eligible, you may need to seek relief by filing a motion or applying for a pardon. In California, felony convictions may be called "straight felonies” or "wob...
See more on gunlaw.com

Denials Based on Mental Health issues.

  • In California, a gun purchase is often denied because the purchaser has been detained under Welfare & Institutions Code §5150, which provides for detention and a 72 hour mental health evaluation of a person considered a danger to himself/herself or others. Those detained under §5150 may become subject to a five year ban on firearms possession and denied a gun purchas…
See more on gunlaw.com

Denials Based on Restraining Orders.

  • Many California gun owners have lost their gun rights as a result of the issuance of a temporary restraining order against them; this can happen without notice and without the opportunity to oppose the issuance of a restraining order. The gun owner may not learn of this until they are served with a copy of the court order requiring the subject individual to relinquish their firearms t…
See more on gunlaw.com

Denials Based on Pending Felony Charges.

  • If you are charged with a felony, you may not purchase or receive a firearm while such charges are still pending against you. Unless you are ordered not to possess firearms as a condition of release on bail or on your own recognizance, firearms already in your lawful possession may be retained. Loss Of Gun Rights Also Prohibits Ammunition, Components, Magazines And Antique Firearms. …
See more on gunlaw.com

Conclusion

  • The above examples of procedures used to clear your record are the most common. Depending upon the circumstances of your case there may be other options or even obstacles. Remember, each case is different; gather your records and seek the assistance of our office.
See more on gunlaw.com