Restoration Of Firearm Rights

Gun Rights Restoration Lawyer in Virginia Beach

How Do I Restore My Gun Rights in Virginia?

If you are convicted of a felony, then you automatically lose your right to have a firearm in the United States. To restore your gun rights, you must petition the Commonwealth of Virginia; your rights will not be automatically restored after probation.

How to Petition to Restore Gun Rights in Virginia

There are four situations in which the court may grant your petition:

  1. You were pardoned
  2. You have had your political disabilities removed ( Article V, Section 12 of the Constitution of Virginia) & there are no conditions related to the reinstatement of your firearm rights
  3. The Circuit Court granted your right to possess a firearm and the Governor restored your political rights or the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms removed your federal disabilities
  4. The Governor of Virginia (or the Governor of the state that convicted you) restored your political rights and the reinstatement included firearm rights or the Circuit Court restored your firearm rights or the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms removed your federal disabilities

Have questions about your eligibility to have your firearm rights restored? Contact the Law Office of Shawn M. Cline, PC for a free consultation with a Virginia firearm restoration attorney!


With over a decade of experience in criminal law and a special focus on felonies, Attorney Cline is well-equipped to handle your case! He is a former JAG who is trained to win for his clients.

What are the Different Types of Pardons in Virginia?

According to Virginia law, the Governor can issue three types of pardons:

  • Simple pardon: official statement of forgiveness. To obtain this pardon, you must have been convicted in the state of Virginia and you must provide proof that you have done all that you can to rehabilitate yourself. You can only petition for this type of pardon 10 years after your conviction and after any suspension or probation time is over. Simple pardons are usually only granted in exceptional circumstances.
  • Conditional pardon: early release for inmates. To obtain this pardon, incarcerated persons must show extraordinary circumstances or use medical clemency (terminally ill with three months or less to live).
  • Absolute pardon: official statement that you did not commit the crime. This would also allow the conviction to be removed from your criminal record.

Discuss your firearm rights case with a criminal defense lawyer at the Law Office of Shawn M. Cline, PC free of charge! Contact us by calling (757) 209-2328. Our gun rights attorneys offer military discounts!


Contact Our Firm

Choose NYC Law Firm
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.