The people of Texas take pride in their ability to possess firearms, and this is a right that we do not take lightly. Compared to other states, Texas has some of the most generous gun laws in existence. For example, the state doesn’t require a license to own a gun, nor does it require people to register their firearms.
However, the state does impose some reasonable gun restrictions:
- It’s illegal to possess, manufacture, repair, transport or sell a machine gun.
- You can’t sell, loan, or give a handgun to someone who you know intends to use it to commit a crime.
- You can’t possess a firearm if you were convicted of a felony, or a Class A misdemeanor for family violence (domestic violence).
- You can’t lawfully own or possess firearms if you’re a member of a street gang.
Restoring Your Civil Rights in Texas
In Texas, if you’re convicted of a felony, it affects four major rights, including 1) your right to vote, 2) the right to serve on a federal jury, 3) your right to hold federal employment or office, and 4) your firearms privileges.
According to law, a convicted felon cannot receive, transport, own, or possess any type of explosive materials, firearms, and ammunition. The Supreme Court has ruled that those convicted of federal felony charges cannot possess any firearm until they go through a federal procedure.
If a person is convicted of a felony, they are prohibited from possessing a firearm for five years after the their release from prison or from community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision, whichever occurs later. After this period, the individual may possess a firearm, but with exceptions.
To learn more about restoring your civil rights under Texas law, contact Derek A. Adame, Attorney at Law to schedule a free case evaluation with a former prosecutor!