The Many Constitutional Deficiencies of Red Flag Laws

Published on June 19, 2022
Duration: 15:28

This video critically examines the constitutional deficiencies of red flag laws, also known as Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs). William Kirk, President of Washington Gun Law, argues that these laws, while potentially well-intentioned, violate fundamental rights. He focuses on the procedural due process violations inherent in the ex parte temporary order issuance and the lack of meaningful opportunity to be heard during hearings. Kirk also raises concerns about the potential for these laws to suppress First Amendment rights by misinterpreting speech as violence.

Quick Summary

Red flag laws, or Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs), face significant constitutional challenges, primarily concerning violations of the Fifth Amendment's due process clause. Critics argue that the ex parte issuance of temporary orders and the lack of a meaningful opportunity for the respondent to be heard before firearms are seized represent a severe infringement on fundamental rights.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Red Flag Laws
  2. 01:00How Red Flag Laws Work and Their Issues
  3. 02:09Constitutional Arguments Against Red Flag Laws
  4. 02:53Second Amendment Violations
  5. 04:23Fifth Amendment Due Process Violations
  6. 06:03Procedural Due Process Explained
  7. 07:20ERPO Process in Washington State
  8. 08:43Respondent's Discovery of Temporary Order
  9. 09:51The Final Hearing and Its Limitations
  10. 11:53Potential First Amendment Suppression
  11. 13:49Conclusion: Alarming Implications of Red Flag Laws

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main constitutional arguments against red flag laws?

The primary constitutional arguments against red flag laws, or Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs), center on violations of the Second Amendment (right to bear arms) and, more significantly, the Fifth Amendment's guarantee of due process. Critics argue these laws often bypass fundamental legal protections, leading to rights being stripped without adequate notice or opportunity to be heard.

How do red flag laws allegedly violate Fifth Amendment due process rights?

Red flag laws are criticized for violating procedural due process because temporary orders are often issued ex parte, meaning without the respondent's knowledge or presence. This denies the respondent notice and a meaningful opportunity to be heard before their property (firearms) is seized, which is a core component of due process.

Can red flag laws impact First Amendment rights?

There is a concern that red flag laws could be used to suppress First Amendment rights, particularly freedom of speech. If expressing certain political or religious views is perceived by some as inciting violence, it could potentially be used as grounds for an ERPO, thereby chilling free expression.

What is the process for obtaining a temporary red flag order?

In states like Washington, a temporary red flag order can be initiated by a family member, household member, or law enforcement. The petitioner presents allegations to a court, which may issue an order based solely on the petitioner's account, often without notifying or hearing from the respondent.

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