Restoring Your Gun Rights in Washington State Part 2. Disqualifiers and Illegal Possession.

Published on May 4, 2022
Duration: 9:58

This video details Washington State's RCW 9.41.040 concerning unlawful possession of firearms and disqualifiers for restoring gun rights. It differentiates between first and second-degree unlawful possession, outlining specific offenses that constitute 'serious offenses' and permanent disqualifiers. The content emphasizes that certain convictions, like Class A felonies or sex offenses, may permanently prevent individuals from regaining their firearm rights, regardless of time passed.

Quick Summary

In Washington State, unlawful firearm possession is categorized into first and second degrees. First-degree possession involves possessing a firearm after a 'serious offense' conviction, while second-degree applies to other disqualifying circumstances. Certain offenses, like Class A felonies or sex offenses, result in permanent disqualification from firearm ownership.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Restoring Gun Rights Series
  2. 00:51Disqualifiers and Illegal Possession Overview
  3. 01:20RCW 9.41.040: Violation of Uniform Firearms Act
  4. 02:39Unlawful Possession of Firearm: First Degree
  5. 03:39Definition of Serious Offense
  6. 05:31Unlawful Possession of Firearm: Second Degree
  7. 06:50Timeframes for Restoring Rights
  8. 07:34Permanent Disqualifiers Explained
  9. 09:03Contact and Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main types of unlawful firearm possession in Washington State?

Washington State law defines two main types: unlawful possession of a firearm in the first degree, typically for those with prior 'serious offense' convictions, and unlawful possession in the second degree, for those disqualified for other reasons but still possessing a firearm.

What constitutes a 'serious offense' that disqualifies firearm possession in Washington?

A 'serious offense' includes various felonies such as crimes of violence, certain drug offenses, sex offenses, vehicular assault/homicide, and any felony with a deadly weapon verdict, among others as defined in RCW 9.41.

Can I ever restore my gun rights if I have a Class A felony conviction in Washington?

Under Washington law, convictions for Class A felonies, sex offenses, or offenses with a maximum penalty of 20 years or more incarceration are generally permanent disqualifiers, meaning you may never be eligible to restore your firearm rights.

How long do I need to be crime-free to be eligible to restore my gun rights in Washington?

The required crime-free period to be eligible to petition for restoration of firearm rights varies based on the offense. It can range from three years for less serious offenses, to five years, or ten years for more severe convictions.

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