Can I Possess a Gun in Massachusetts After an OUI Conviction?

The answer to this question is that of the answer to most legal questions, it depends. An OUI can be a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on multiple factors. Was this your first OUI or your fourth?  Was anyone injured? Were there any aggravating circumstances, such as drug possession, at the time of your arrest? Third or subsequent OUIs are considered felony offenses. In MA, convicted felons are prohibited from obtaining a gun permit or Firearm Identification Card. Read on for more information about OUIs and their impact on your ability to purchase and carry a gun.

A felony is any crime punishable by at least one year in a state prison. Even if a person’s sentence is reduced to less than one year, he or she may still be classified as a felon. Although third and subsequent OUI offenses are automatic felonies, first and second offenses can be felonies under certain circumstances. For example, if someone is seriously injured or killed in an accident because you were driving under the influence, your first OUI may be elevated to a felony conviction. A Boston criminal defense attorney can help you determine your rights to purchase or carry a gun if you were previously convicted of an OUI offense.

What About My Second Amendment Rights?

A felony conviction results in the loss of many rights, including your second amendment rights. Although the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees U.S. citizens the right to bear arms, it excludes those convicted of felonies. Although a felony is a surefire way to remove your right to possess a gun, there are other situations in which U.S. citizens are prohibited from purchasing or carrying firearms. These may include:

  • Anyone convicted of domestic violence, even a misdemeanor offense
  • Individuals convicted of juvenile crimes
  • Anyone with an outstanding warrant
  • Individuals residing in mental health hospitals or addiction treatment centers
  • Individuals under the age of 18 who are in the U.S. illegally

What About My Spouse?

Unless your spouse is also a convicted felon, he or she can possess a gun after your felony OUI conviction. Unfortunately, this can present a sticky situation. Let’s say your wife owns a gun and you’re a convicted felon; if she puts the gun anywhere accessible to you – including the family home – she would be in violation of the law. Further, if you were unaware that the gun was in the home and it was discovered by law enforcement, you could be charged with unlawful possession.

What are the Penalties for Gun Possession Following a Felony OUI Conviction?

In MA, unlawful possession of a firearm is punishable by a minimum of two-and-a-half years in prison, with a maximum of five years in prison. To prove unlawful possession, the following circumstances must be proven:

  • The individual was in physical possession of the firearm, and was aware that he had possession of the firearm.
  • The firearm was a revolver, pistol, or other weapon from which a bullet can be discharged.

If you were convicted of a misdemeanor OUI offense, your right to purchase or carry a gun is unlikely to be impacted. However, an application and background check will provide confirmation. A MA criminal defense attorney can help you determine how to proceed if you’ve been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm following an OUI.

Altman & Altman, LLP – Top Gun Crimes Lawyer In MA

If you have been charged with any type of crime, the skilled legal team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. We have been protecting the rights of individuals charged with crimes for more than 50 years. Our experienced, knowledgeable attorneys have an impressive track record of obtaining compensation for our clients. We will fight tirelessly to protect your rights, reputation, and freedom. If you are facing criminal charges, we can help. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.

 

Contact Information