Denied Your Firearm License? Our Firearms Attorney Is Prepared to Help You Appealing Firearm License Denials Today
If you’ve been denied a firearm license in Massachusetts, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate the appealing firearm license denials process on your own. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is a Massachusetts firearms and gun rights firm with offices in Boston and Salem, committed to protecting your rights under state law. Whether you’re in Suffolk County—including Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, or Chelsea—or nearby in Essex County, including Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, and Saugus, our firearms attorneys have the experience and knowledge to represent you. We also serve residents in Middlesex County (Cambridge, Somerville, Newton) and Norfolk County (Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy) who are facing license denials or revocations.
Appealing a firearm license denial in Massachusetts is a serious legal matter, often involving local police departments, the Massachusetts Firearms Licensing Review Board, and occasionally the district court system. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson understands the nuances of Massachusetts firearms law and is here to help you navigate every step of the process.
Understanding Firearm License Denials in Massachusetts
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Sections 121–131P, residents are required to obtain a License to Carry (LTC) or Firearms Identification (FID) card to lawfully possess or carry firearms. These licenses are issued at the discretion of the local police department, often based on suitability and background checks. Unfortunately, denials happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Past criminal charges or convictions
- Mental health hospitalizations
- Misinformation or outdated records
- “Unsuitability” determinations by local authorities
While Massachusetts allows police departments significant discretion in issuing licenses, that discretion must still align with the law. You have the legal right to appeal a denial, especially if you believe it was made in error or based on incorrect information.
The Appeals Process and Your Rights
If your license application is denied, the law allows you to request an appeal. According to M.G.L. c. 140, § 131(f), you may appeal the denial of an LTC or FID to the District Court. If you’ve been denied on the grounds of “suitability,” the court will review whether the licensing authority acted within reasonable bounds.
In certain cases, individuals who were previously disqualified (such as those with sealed records or outdated misdemeanor charges) may be eligible for relief through the Firearms Licensing Review Board (FLRB), under M.G.L. c. 140, § 130B. The FLRB reviews applications from individuals seeking to restore their rights to obtain an FID card, especially if their disqualification involved non-violent or misdemeanor convictions.
Our firearms attorneys help you determine the most appropriate path for your situation—whether through district court or the FLRB. We gather supporting evidence, prepare legal arguments, and represent you in all required hearings.
Why Work with a Firearms and Gun Rights Attorney?
Massachusetts firearm laws are some of the strictest in the nation, and navigating them without proper legal support can be overwhelming. Working with a knowledgeable Massachusetts firearms attorney ensures:
- Proper legal strategy tailored to your case
- Review of any prior criminal record issues
- Support in preparing for court or FLRB hearings
- Professional communication with local police departments and the courts
- Legal defense if your denial is connected to pending or past criminal charges
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we are not only criminal defense attorneys—we are committed firearms advocates who understand the importance of lawful gun ownership. Our attorneys are experienced in representing clients across multiple counties, and we are fully prepared to help you assert your rights responsibly and effectively.
How We Help with Restoration and Appeals
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we take your Second Amendment rights seriously. Our team provides comprehensive legal support in firearm license appeals and restoration, including:
- Reviewing the basis for your denial
- Collecting documentation and records
- Advising on FLRB petition requirements
- Representing you in hearings or court
- Protecting your right to due process under Massachusetts law
Contact Us to Set Up a Strategy Session
If your firearm license has been denied, don’t leave your future to chance. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is here to help you through every step of the process. Whether you need to appeal in court or seek relief through the Firearms Licensing Review Board, our firearms attorneys are prepared to defend your rights. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and take the first step toward restoring your firearm license.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my firearm license is denied in Massachusetts?
If your firearm license application has been denied, you should first request the reason for denial in writing. Then contact a Massachusetts firearms attorney to review your legal options for appealing the decision through the District Court or Firearms Licensing Review Board.
Can I appeal a firearms license denial for past criminal charges?
Yes. If your denial is based on old or minor charges, or if your record has been sealed, you may be eligible for relief. A qualified firearms and gun rights attorney can assess your eligibility under Massachusetts law.
How long do I have to appeal a denial?
Under M.G.L. c. 140, § 131(f), you typically have 90 days to file an appeal in the appropriate District Court. Time limits can vary depending on your denial, so it’s important to act promptly.
What is “suitability” and how can it affect my license?
“Suitability” means the licensing authority believes you are not appropriate to hold a firearm license, even if you have no disqualifying convictions. Suitability denials can be appealed, and courts will evaluate if the decision was reasonable.
Can I own a firearm if I had my license denied?
No, Massachusetts law prohibits possession of firearms without a valid LTC or FID card. If your license has been denied or revoked, it’s important to speak with a firearms law attorney before attempting to acquire or keep a firearm.