Missouri is known for strong protections of Second Amendment rights, but those rights aren’t absolute. If you’ve been convicted of a crime, especially a felony or certain misdemeanors—you could face serious restrictions on your ability to own or possess a firearm.

At KC Defense Counsel, our trusted Kansas City defense attorneys in Missouri regularly advise clients in Kansas City and across Missouri on how criminal charges — and convictions — can impact their gun rights. Whether you’re a hunter, a concealed carry permit holder, or just someone who wants to protect your home, it’s crucial to understand how the law works.

MISSOURI GUN LAWS AND CRIMINAL CONVICTIONS

Under Missouri law (RSMo 571.070) and federal law (18 U.S.C. 922(g)), certain convictions can make it illegal to possess, own, or purchase a firearm. Violating these laws can lead to additional felony charges, even if the original offense was non-violent.

FELONY CONVICTIONS AND FIREARM RIGHTS IN MISSOURI

If you are convicted of any felony in Missouri, you lose your right to possess or purchase a firearm. It doesn’t matter if the crime had nothing to do with violence or weapons, the ban is automatic.

Examples include:

Drug possession or distribution
Burglary or theft
DUI (if charged as a felony)
Assault or domestic violence

Being caught with a firearm after a felony conviction is a serious criminal offense under both state and federal law.

MISDEMEANOR DOMESTIC ASSAULT CONVICTIONS

Even if your case is classified as a misdemeanor, a domestic violence conviction can still strip you of your gun rights.

Under federal law, if you’re convicted of a misdemeanor involving domestic violence — such as harming a spouse, partner, or family member, you are permanently barred from possessing or purchasing firearms.

This applies even if:

It was your first offense
The charge was a misdemeanor
You served no jail time

These restrictions can affect military service, hunting, home protection, and employment in law enforcement or security.

WHAT IS EXPUNGEMENT OR SIS?

In Missouri, a Suspended Imposition of Sentence (SIS) might seem like a way around losing your gun rights. However:

Federal law may still treat the case as a conviction
You may still be barred from possessing firearms, even if the record is sealed at the state level

Similarly, expungement does not always restore firearm rights, especially under federal law. Each case must be evaluated individually.

CAN I GET MY GUN RIGHTS BACK IN MISSOURI AFTER A CONVICTION?

Restoring gun rights in Missouri is difficult — but not always impossible. You may be able to:

Apply for expungement (in limited cases)
Request a pardon from the Governor of Missouri
Petition the court (if your conviction qualifies)

At KC Defense Counsel, our expert Missouri defense lawyers can evaluate your eligibility and advise you on the best path forward.

HIRE AN EXPERIENCED KANSAS CITY CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY — CONTACT KC DEFENSE COUNSEL TODAY

Gun rights are important to many Missourians, but a criminal conviction can change everything. If you’re facing charges or have already been convicted, it’s critical to understand your rights and how to protect them.

Don’t assume you’re safe just because you’re in Missouri. Both state and federal laws apply and violating them could lead to more charges and more jail time.

If you’re concerned about how a current charge, or past conviction — might affect your gun rights in Missouri, contact KC Defense Counsel today. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Kansas City will help you understand your legal options and fight to protect your freedom.

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 us if your ticket is not on this list so our experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyers near me in Missouri can be of assistance.