Gun Rights Restoration Attorneys in Poquoson, VA
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John W. Lee
Kim Lewis
Shanna Harris
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Raphael Connor
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Can a convicted felon own a gun in Virginia?
In Virginia, a felony conviction results in the loss of several civil rights, including:
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The right to vote
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The right to serve on a jury
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The right to hold public office
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The right to be a notary public
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And importantly—the right to possess, own, or transport firearms
If you’ve lost your gun rights due to a felony conviction, you may still have a path to restoration. At John W. Lee, P.C., our experienced Poquoson gun rights attorneys specialize in helping individuals restore their Second Amendment rights legally and efficiently.
How do I restore my gun rights in Poquoson?
If your conviction was for a non-violent felony, and:
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You’ve completed all terms of your sentence
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You’re no longer under any form of correctional supervision
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You’ve paid all fines, fees, and court costs
You may qualify for Virginia’s Automatic Civil Rights Restoration. If your felony conviction occurred in Virginia, the process is often straightforward and can take 1 to 3 months. You can check your eligibility or apply directly at: restore.virginia.gov
If your conviction was for a violent felony, your path to restoration is still possible—but more complex. Our legal team can walk you through the necessary steps and represent you in court as needed.
Fortunately, in Many Cases, We Can Help You Restore Your Right to Own and Possess a Firearm in Virginia
Virginia Code section 18.2-308.2 states, in part, “Any person prohibited from possessing… a firearm… may petition the circuit court . . . for a restoration order that unconditionally authorizes possessing, transporting, or carrying a firearm… no person who has been convicted of a felony shall be qualified to petition for such an order unless his civil rights have been restored by the Governor…”
Can you get your gun rights back in Virginia?
Yes—but not everyone is eligible for gun rights restoration under Virginia law. If you’ve been convicted of a nonviolent felony in a Virginia Circuit Court, you may be able to have your firearm rights restored. However, certain restrictions apply.
You are not eligible for this process if:
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You were convicted of a felony in federal court or another state
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You have been convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor
Who qualifies for gun rights restoration in Poquoson?
You may petition a Virginia Circuit Court for restoration of your firearm rights if the following conditions are met:
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Convicted of a nonviolent felony in a Virginia Circuit Court
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No conviction for a domestic violence misdemeanor
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Your civil rights have been restored by the Governor of Virginia
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All fines and court fees are paid in full
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No pending criminal charges
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You’ve demonstrated good behavior with no new convictions for a substantial period
Our Newport News gun rights attorneys can help you determine your eligibility and guide you through the entire process.
Why restoration matters: avoid unintentional firearm charges
Even if you’re careful to avoid owning a gun, you could still face charges for unlawful possession if you’re near a firearm. For example:
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Riding in a car with someone carrying a gun
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Living in a household where someone owns a firearm
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Staying at a motel where a gun is present
Accidental possession can still lead to felony charges, which carry prison time of 5 to 10 years. The best way to avoid this risk is to legally restore your rights.
How Do Felons Restore Gun Rights in Virginia?
The legal team at John W. Lee, P.C. is experienced in helping clients throughout the Hampton Roads area restore their Second Amendment rights. We’ll guide you through the entire process, from reviewing your eligibility to filing and presenting your petition in Circuit Court.
Owning a firearm isn’t just a right—it’s also about protecting your family and enjoying the freedom to hunt, target shoot, and live without fear of legal trouble.
Start with a Free Consultation in Hampton
We offer a free initial consultation to help you determine your eligibility for gun rights restoration. Just bring:
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A copy of your restoration of civil rights, and
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Documentation of your felony conviction
