A felony conviction leads to a permanent criminal record and has long-lasting and far-reaching effects on your life. If you have been convicted, it is essential to understand what you are prohibited to do or own.
In Colorado, felons are not allowed to possess firearms. While there are many benefits to owning a gun, felons can’t own guns to prevent potentially dangerous individuals from obtaining weapons. If you are a felon in Colorado, seeking legal advice is highly recommended to ensure compliance with the law.
Let’s take a closer look at gun ownership laws in the state.
Understanding Felony Convictions and Gun Ownership Laws
The state law prohibits felons from owning both handguns and long guns, including rifles and shotguns.
It doesn’t matter if the conviction was for a violent or non-violent offense; the prohibition still stands. Even if you’ve completed your sentence and have been released from probation or parole, you’re still not allowed to own a gun.
It’s crucial to be aware of these laws and the consequences of violating them to avoid any legal trouble. If you need to know more about your constitutional right to keep and bear arms, read this article: https://www.thelawcenterpc.com/denver-gun-rights-lawyer/
The Federal Firearms Act and its Impact on Felons in Colorado
Although individuals with a felony in Colorado face restrictions, the Federal Firearms Act plays a significant role in determining their access to firearms. Under this federal law, it’s generally illegal for felons to possess or own firearms. This means that even if Colorado state law might allow some felons to regain their gun rights after a certain period of time, they would still be prohibited by the federal law.
The Federal Firearms Act imposes strict penalties for felons caught in possession of firearms, including substantial fines and imprisonment.
It’s important for felons in Colorado to understand that the federal law takes precedence over state laws when it comes to gun ownership. Therefore, it’s crucial for individuals with felony convictions to consult with legal professionals to fully understand their rights and limitations regarding firearm possession.
Colorado State Laws on Gun Ownership for Felons
If you are a felon and you’ve completed your sentence, including probation and parole, and have had your rights restored by a court, you may be eligible to possess a firearm. It’s important to understand that violating this law can lead to serious consequences, including additional criminal charges and imprisonment.
There are also certain types of non-violent felonies that do not result in a complete prohibition on gun ownership.
Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to fully understand your rights and obligations regarding gun ownership as a felon in Colorado.
Consequences of Illegal Gun Ownership for Felons in Colorado
If you, as a felon, decide to illegally possess a firearm in Colorado, you’re risking serious legal trouble. Law enforcement agencies in Colorado take illegal gun ownership very seriously and actively enforce the laws surrounding it.
If caught, you could face additional charges, including but not limited to, possession of a weapon by a previous offender (POWPO) or unlawful possession of a firearm. These charges can result in significant fines, probation, or even imprisonment.
Illegal gun ownership can also further damage your reputation and hinder any progress you’ve made towards restoring your rights.
Conclusion
While federal law prohibits felons from owning firearms, Colorado also has its own state laws in place. It’s crucial to seek legal advice and explore alternatives to gun ownership if you’re a felon.