Our Services

Federal Firearm Rights Restoration

When you lose your rights due to a felony conviction, you’re prohibited under two separate systems: state law and federal law. Restoring your rights under state law only fixes half the problem. Under federal law, you’re still classified as a prohibited person.

That means:

You cannot legally purchase from federally licensed dealers (FFLs). Any background check through NICS will result in a denial.
Even if your state recognizes your rights, the federal government does not—and possession under federal law is still a felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
Situations like a traffic stop, a hunting trip, or a search for unrelated reasons can suddenly expose you to federal charges.

Federal restoration is what clears your name nationally. It allows you to buy from gun stores, pass background checks, and fully eliminate the risk of federal prosecution. Without federal restoration, your rights are only partially restored—and your legal exposure remains.

State Firearm Rights Restoration

State restoration restores your rights within your state, but only under state law. In Michigan, for example:

Purchases through private sales only: You cannot buy from gun shops or FFL dealers.
Handguns: Without a CPL, you must obtain a License to Purchase (LTP) before any private sale. Handgun transfers must be registered with your local police or sheriff.
Long guns: As of 2023, private sales of rifles and shotguns also require an LTP, unless you hold a CPL.
Documentation: Though not always legally required, keeping a bill of sale with full details (names, weapon description, serial number, signatures) is highly recommended to protect both parties.
Federal limits still apply: Private transfers are only allowed in-state, and you cannot transfer to prohibited persons.

While state restoration allows you to participate locally—such as hunting or keeping a firearm at home—it does not change your federal status. It’s a patchwork solution, and any missed paperwork or misunderstanding of the rules can quickly lead to new criminal charges.

Presidential Pardon Applications

If an expungement is not possible, the next step is a firearm rights restoration petition. These petitions are filed in the circuit court of the county where you live. They may be necessary if:

What a Pardon Can Do

Remove Federal Penalties – Forgives the punishment for a federal offense, including prison, probation, and ongoing penalties.
Restore Civil Rights – Voting, serving on a jury, holding office, and in many cases firearm ownership.
Unlock Opportunities – Improve access to jobs, housing, licensing, and education.
Provide Social Redemption – Reduce stigma and allow individuals to move forward with dignity.
Bring Peace of Mind – End the ongoing burden of enforcement for a past conviction.

What a Pardon Cannot Do

Does not apply to state convictions.
Cannot undo an impeachment.
May not erase all collateral consequences, such as immigration issues or restitution owed.
Public records will still show the conviction, even if legal consequences are lifted.

Who Qualifies?

The Department of Justice (DOJ) reviews pardon petitions carefully. Applicants must generally show:

Federal Conviction – Only federal crimes are eligible.
Rehabilitation & Good Conduct – Evidence of law-abiding behavior, steady employment, and community contributions.
Acceptance of Responsibility – Demonstrating remorse and, when possible, restitution.
Need for Relief – Barriers to employment, licensing, or civil rights restoration strengthen an application.

Dispelling the Myths

Many believe pardons are only for celebrities or the politically connected. That is no longer true.

- Pardons are issued every month—dozens in 2025 alone.
- A dedicated DOJ “Pardon Czar” now ensures petitions are reviewed on merit, not connections.
- Eligibility is broader than many realize: if you have a completed federal conviction and a strong record of rehabilitation, you may qualify.