A firearm prohibition can come from a court order, a mental health matter, an old record, or something else entirely. Where the restriction comes from determines what it takes to address it — and a one-size-fits-all approach will almost certainly miss the question that actually matters.
We start by looking closely at why the restriction exists and what records, court proceedings, or legal remedies apply. That approach matters when someone’s ability to possess a firearm is tied to circumstances that may be years in the past.
Our video offers a closer look at why the starting point matters in firearm rights restoration.
Why Restoration Looks Different for Every Case
Firearm rights restoration isn’t a single process with one application or one courtroom strategy. As we tell clients, “There isn’t that one magic answer to restore everyone’s rights.” A meaningful review has to begin with the legal reason for the prohibition, not an assumption about the solution.
Possible issues we may need to examine include:
- Relief from a firearm disability related to a mental health situation
- A state clemency process
- Old records connected to an arrest or prohibition
- An injunction or risk protection order that requires court action
A restraining order — known in Florida as an injunction — can affect firearm rights and may need to be addressed through the court. When appropriate, we can pursue dissolution of an injunction as part of the effort to restore those rights.
Risk protection orders require particular attention because the timeline can move quickly. A person can automatically lose their firearm rights before they ever get a court hearing, which is why prompt action matters. We’ve represented countless respondents in these proceedings and understand that the hearing is a critical opportunity to address the petition before a judge.
The Legal and Forensic Knowledge This Work Requires
Restoration matters can overlap with criminal history, court procedure, firearm law, and the specific facts that led to a restriction. Our team includes former prosecutors, attorneys who have represented thousands of clients on criminal charges, and attorneys trained in self-defense law, crime scene investigation, forensic evidence, human performance under stress, and use-of-force decision-making.
Our founding attorneys also co-authored Florida Gun Law: Armed and Educated, now in its third edition. That ongoing focus on Florida gun law shapes how we approach firearm rights questions — whether the issue involves a decade-old record or an active court proceeding.
If a restriction is keeping you from possessing a firearm, we’re prepared to review the circumstances with you. Contact The Firearm Firm at (321) 425-8961 to discuss your situation.