Losing — and Regaining — Your Gun Rights

For many Missourians, losing gun rights after a felony conviction is one of the most painful parts of the legal process. Whether you’re a hunter, a collector, a veteran, or simply someone who values personal protection, the ban on firearm possession can feel like a permanent mark.

But here’s the big question:

“Can a convicted felon ever legally own a gun again in Missouri?”

The answer is both yes and no — depending on the type of felony, the circumstances, and whether you’ve completed specific legal steps.

And navigating these laws without an experienced Kansas City criminal defense attorney is extremely risky. Call KC Defense Counsel today for a free and confidential case evaluation.

UNDERSTANDING THE FELON-IN-POSSESSION BAN

Missouri law and federal law both restrict firearm possession for felons, but in different ways.

Missouri State Law (RSMo 571.070): Missouri prohibits anyone convicted of any felony from possessing a firearm. Violating this statute can lead to a Class D felony, or a Class C felony if the prior felony involved violence or certain drug offenses.

Penalties include:

Up to 7 years in prison (Class D)
Up to 10 years in prison (Class C)
Heavy fines
Additional federal charges

Missouri does allow restoration in some circumstances — but only state-level rights, not federal.

Federal Law (18 U.S.C. 922(g)): This is the big one. Federal law bans firearm possession by any convicted felon, with no exceptions unless rights are restored through a specific process — which the federal government hasn’t funded for decades.

This means even if Missouri restores your rights, the federal ban may still apply.

That’s why you need a lawyer who understands both systems to keep you safe.

SO….CAN A FELON LEGALLY OWN A GUN AGAIN?

Well, yes and no. Here’s the breakdown.

YES — IF Your Conviction Is Expunged

If your felony is expunged under Missouri law (RSMo 610.140), the state treats it as though it never happened. You may then be able to possess firearms legally under state law.

However, federal law is stricter.

A successful expungement often helps restore federal rights, but only if:
The conviction is fully expunged
All civil rights are restored
The expungement doesn’t expressly prohibit firearm ownership

This process is complex and requires legal guidance to avoid serious federal exposure.

MAYBE — IF You Receive a Pardon

A pardon from the governor can restore firearm rights under Missouri law.

But a pardon does not always restore federal firearm rights.

A lawyer must review the terms of the pardon to determine your actual legal status.

NO — If You Have Certain Types of Felonies

You will not be eligible for firearm restoration if your felony involved:

Domestic violence
Weapons charges
Serious drug trafficking
Crimes against children
Violent felonies

Federal law is especially hostile to domestic violence–related convictions.

WHY TRYING TO POSSESS A GUN WITHOUT LEGAL CLEARANCE IS DANGEROUS

If you pick up a firearm before your rights are fully restored, you risk:

State felony charges (7–10 years)
Federal charges (up to 10 years, no parole)
Loss of probation or parole
Permanent lifetime bans

And Missouri police work closely with federal agencies on gun cases — especially for convicted felons.

Do not attempt to buy, borrow, hold, or even be near a firearm until speaking with a lawyer.

HOW AN EXPERIENCED KANSAS CITY CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER CAN HELP RESTORE YOUR RIGHTS

Restoring gun rights isn’t simple — but it is possible in the right circumstances. At KC Defense Counsel, we help clients:

Determine whether their felony is eligible for expungement
Petition for expungement of qualifying convictions
Request pardons when appropriate
Navigate the complex overlap of Missouri and federal law
Avoid situations that could trigger new felony charges

You should never attempt firearm restoration alone. A single mistake can bring serious criminal exposure.

Who Is Most Likely to Get Gun Rights Restored?: Clients with:

Nonviolent felony convictions
Felonies over 7+ years old
No new arrests or charges
Completion of all probation, fines, and restitution
Demonstrated rehabilitation (employment, stability, etc.)

These individuals often have a strong chance of qualifying for firearm restoration through expungement.

Missouri may allow firearm rights to be restored in some circumstances, but federal law complicates the process significantly.

One wrong assumption can lead to new felony charges and years behind bars.

DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE — CALL KC DEFENSE COUNSEL TODAY

If you’re a convicted felon in Missouri and want to know whether you can legally own a firearm again, don’t guess — get answers.

Criminal charges don’t define you — but how you respond to them can shape your future. At KC Defense Counsel, our Kansas City criminal defense attorneys fight to protect your freedom and restore your reputation. We represent clients across Missouri in cases involving DUI, assault, domestic violence, drug crimes, and more. We know how stressful the legal process can be, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our team uses proven legal strategies, years of courtroom experience, and a relentless commitment to results.

Call KC Defense Counsel today to schedule a free case evaluation and start building your defense. Your future deserves nothing less than the strongest possible representation.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland, Drexel, Fairview, Ferrelview, Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview, Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill, Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy, Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact our experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyers near me in Missouri and let us help begin building your defense. Let us help.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Always consult qualified counsel regarding your unique situation.