Looking to Restore Your Gun Rights After a Conviction? Our Firearms and Gun Rights Attorney Can Help
If you’ve lost your right to possess a firearm due to a prior conviction in Massachusetts, you may be eligible for the Restoration of Gun Rights Following Conviction. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our firearms and gun rights attorneys are experienced in helping individuals navigate the legal complexities involved in reclaiming their Second Amendment rights. With offices in Boston and Salem, we proudly serve clients throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties—including cities like Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, and Quincy.
Firearms law in Massachusetts is among the most complex in the country. Whether you’re seeking relief under Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 140 § 129B or pursuing a firearms license after your civil rights have been restored, our team can guide you through every step. We focus on clear legal strategies—not promises. If your conviction is holding you back from lawfully owning or possessing a firearm, it’s crucial to consult with a Massachusetts firearms attorney who understands both state and federal firearm regulations.
Understanding the Restoration of Gun Rights Following a Conviction
In Massachusetts, individuals convicted of certain crimes may lose their right to own or possess firearms. However, that loss is not always permanent. Depending on the nature of the offense and the amount of time that has passed, you may be eligible to have your rights restored through legal channels.
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 129B and 131, the state outlines the criteria for applying for a License to Carry (LTC) or a Firearms Identification (FID) card. Certain felony or domestic violence convictions can disqualify you, but some disqualifications can be lifted after five years have passed from the date of conviction or release from incarceration, whichever is later.
You may also pursue a petition for relief under Chapter 140, Section 129C if your disqualification is due to a misdemeanor punishable by more than two years in prison. In these cases, a court may grant relief if it finds you no longer pose a threat to public safety.
For those previously convicted of federal crimes or out-of-state offenses, the process may involve additional layers of complexity, especially if the federal government still considers you prohibited under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). Our firearms and gun rights attorneys help assess your eligibility and guide you through both the state and federal aspects of your case.
How Our Firearms Attorney Helps You Reclaim Your Rights
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we are firearms advocates who provide representation that’s both practical and personalized. Our attorneys evaluate your criminal record, identify whether the conviction qualifies for rights restoration, and advise on the best course of action. If you’re eligible, we assist in preparing and filing the necessary legal documents, including:
- Petitions for judicial relief under M.G.L. ch. 140, § 129C
- Applications for FID or LTC reinstatement
- Appeals to the District Court for denial of a firearms license under M.G.L. ch. 140, § 131(f)
We recognize the importance of Second Amendment rights and the legal burdens that can arise when those rights are revoked. Our team is experienced in challenging arbitrary denials, advocating before licensing authorities, and representing clients in court when necessary.
Serving Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties
The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson represents individuals across Massachusetts who need help with firearms law, especially those seeking the restoration of gun rights following a conviction. We serve clients in:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
If you reside in one of these areas—or elsewhere in Massachusetts—and are seeking a firearms attorney with deep knowledge of Massachusetts firearms law, we’re here to assist you.
What You Should Know Before You Start the Process
Before beginning the process to restore your gun rights, here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Not all convictions result in a permanent loss of gun rights.
- Misdemeanor convictions may only create a temporary disqualification, often for five years.
- Certain violent or drug-related felonies can result in a lifetime ban.
- Restoration is not automatic—you must actively pursue it through legal channels.
- The denial of a firearms license can be appealed to the District Court within 90 days.
- Federal disqualifications may still apply even after state rights are restored.
Understanding these legal nuances is critical. That’s why having a skilled firearms law attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson?
When it comes to firearms law, there is no substitute for local, experienced, and practical legal guidance. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson offers:
- A deep understanding of Massachusetts firearms laws
- A track record of helping clients with the restoration of gun rights following a conviction
- Convenient offices in Boston and Salem
- Representation in Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk Counties
- A focused approach tailored to your legal goals
We don’t make empty promises. We assess your case with care and honesty and work to build a solid legal strategy that reflects your individual circumstances.
Ready to Begin Restoring Your Gun Rights?
Every situation is different, but you don’t have to navigate the process alone. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson offers strategic, practical legal guidance focused on helping you restore your Second Amendment rights in Massachusetts. Whether you’re in Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, or Norfolk Counties, we’re here to advocate for your rights under Massachusetts firearms law. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and find out what steps you can take to restore your gun rights after a conviction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my gun rights back in Massachusetts after a felony conviction?
Yes, in some cases. If your conviction is not classified as a “violent crime” or does not fall under certain firearm prohibitions, you may petition for relief or apply for an FID card after five years. However, each case must be evaluated individually.
How long do I have to wait before applying to restore my gun rights?
Generally, you must wait five years from the completion of your sentence or probation for certain disqualifying offenses. For more serious convictions, there may be no available restoration option.
What’s the difference between an LTC and an FID in Massachusetts?
An LTC allows you to carry firearms, including handguns, while an FID permits ownership of non-large capacity rifles and shotguns. Both may be denied based on criminal history, but the legal thresholds for disqualification differ slightly.
Can I appeal if I’m denied a firearms license?
Yes. You may appeal a denial to the District Court within 90 days under M.G.L. ch. 140, § 131(f). An experienced firearms attorney can help you present your case.
Do federal firearm laws affect my ability to restore rights in Massachusetts?
Yes. Even if your state-level rights are restored, federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) may still prohibit you from possessing a firearm. A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand and address this.