So You Had a DUI...And Now You Want a Gun? Hold Your Horses (Literally, That Might Be Illegal Too)
Let's be honest, Washington State. We all love a good scenic drive with the mountains in the rearview mirror, maybe a little too much sometimes. But hey, that's why we have Uber, right? Except, for those of us who've had a brush with the (DUI) law, that Uber option might be a distant memory. And now you're wondering, can I, the reformed soul who definitely learned their lesson (that night!), become a responsible gun owner?
Well, buckle up, because the answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no. It all depends on the severity of your DUI and the ever-so-serious world of background checks.
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| Can I Buy A Gun With A Dui In Washington State |
The Felony DUI Fun-Killer: A Lifetime Ban on pew-pews
If your DUI falls under the felony category, then consider your gun-slinging days a thing of the past. Felony DUIs come with a hefty dose of legal trouble, and one of those unfortunate side effects is losing your right to own a firearm. This applies not just to buying a new one, but also to owning any firearms you might already have. So, those dusty revolvers in the attic? Time to find them a new home (with someone who can legally own them, of course).
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Misdemeanor DUIs: A Second Chance (with an Asterisk)
Now, for those of us who earned a misdemeanor DUI, there's a glimmer of hope! Washington state law doesn't explicitly forbid gun ownership for misdemeanor DUIs. But here's the asterisk: you'll likely fail the mandatory background check when attempting to buy a gun. This is because background checks look for any history of violence or instability, and a DUI can be seen as a red flag.
There is, however, a chance you might be able to petition the court to restore your firearm rights after a period of good behavior (think squeaky clean record and staying off the naughty list). But that's a conversation best had with a lawyer, not your friendly neighborhood blog post writer.
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Important Note: This is not legal advice! If you're serious about getting a gun after a DUI, consult an attorney to understand your specific situation.
FAQ: You Ask, We (Sort of) Answer
Alright, alright, we know this whole legal mumbo jumbo can be confusing. So, here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions:
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How to find out if my DUI was a misdemeanor or felony?
- Check your court paperwork or contact your lawyer.
How to get my gun rights restored after a DUI?
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- Consult with a lawyer specializing in gun law.
How long does it take to get my gun rights back after a DUI?
- It depends on the specifics of your case. A lawyer can give you a better idea.
How to buy a gun in Washington?
- You'll need to pass a background check, so make sure your situation allows it.
How to avoid a DUI in the first place?
- The best and most responsible answer: Don't drink and drive! Call a friend, use a rideshare, or just stay in for the night. Your future self (and your gun ownership dreams) will thank you.
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