What Disqualifies You from Owning a Gun in Arizona?
Arizona allows law-abiding citizens to own and carry firearms, but there are certain restrictions and disqualifications in place to ensure public safety. If you’re planning to purchase or own a gun in Arizona, it’s essential to understand what disqualifies you from doing so. In this article, we’ll cover the key factors that disqualify individuals from owning a gun in Arizona.
Contents
Felony Convictions
One of the most significant disqualifiers for owning a gun in Arizona is a felony conviction. Under Arizona Revised Statute (ARS) § 13-3102, if you’ve been convicted of a felony, you are prohibited from possessing a firearm. This includes both federal and state felony convictions, as well as any misdemeanors that have been Enhanced to a felony.
- Felonies that Disqualify You from Owning a Gun in Arizona:
- Crimes against persons, such as murder, manslaughter, robbery, and assault
- Crimes against property, such as burglary, arson, and theft
- Drug-related felonies
- White collar crimes, such as embezzlement and forgery
Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Convictions
In addition to felony convictions, misdemeanor domestic violence convictions can also disqualify you from owning a gun in Arizona. According to ARS § 13-3602, if you’ve been convicted of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense, you are prohibited from possessing a firearm.
- Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Offenses:
- Disorderly conduct
- Assault
- Criminal damage
- Domestic violence
Adjudication of Mentally Ill or Incompetent
If you’ve been adjudicated as mentally ill or incompetent, you may also be disqualified from owning a gun in Arizona. ARS § 13-3821 states that anyone who has been adjudicated as mentally ill or incompetent is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
- Signs of Mental Illness or Incompetence:
- History of violent behavior
- Substance abuse
- Cognitive impairment
- Mental health treatment
Protective Orders
If you’re under a protective order, such as a restraining order or an injunction, you may be disqualified from owning a gun in Arizona. Under ARS § 13-3602, individuals under a protective order are prohibited from possessing a firearm.
- Types of Protective Orders:
- Restraining orders
- Injunctions
- Domestic violence orders
Drug-Related Offenses
In addition to felony and misdemeanor convictions, drug-related offenses can also disqualify you from owning a gun in Arizona. Under federal law, individuals who use or possess illegal drugs can be prohibited from owning firearms.
- Drug-Related Offenses:
- Possession of controlled substances
- Use of illegal drugs
- Drug trafficking
Other Disqualifiers
There are several other factors that can disqualify you from owning a gun in Arizona, including:
- Undischarged judgments of bankruptcy: If you’ve filed for bankruptcy but haven’t received a discharge, you may be prohibited from owning a firearm.
- Convictions of crimes involving moral turpitude: Certain crimes, such as prostitution or human trafficking, can disqualify you from owning a gun in Arizona.
- Convictions of juvenile crimes: If you’ve been convicted of a serious juvenile crime, you may be prohibited from owning a firearm as an adult.
- Convictions under federal law: Federal gun laws can also disqualify you from owning a gun in Arizona.
Table: Factors That Disqualify You from Owning a Gun in Arizona
| Factor | ARS Section |
|---|---|
| Felony Conviction | § 13-3102 |
| Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Conviction | § 13-3602 |
| Adjudication of Mentally Ill or Incompetent | § 13-3821 |
| Protective Orders | § 13-3602 |
| Drug-Related Offenses | Federal Law |
| Undischarged Judgments of Bankruptcy | NA |
| Convictions of Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude | NA |
| Convictions of Juvenile Crimes | NA |
| Convictions Under Federal Law | NA |
In conclusion, owning a gun in Arizona requires adhering to strict laws and regulations. If you’re convicted of a felony, domestic violence, or other criminal offenses, you may be disqualified from owning a firearm in the state. Additionally, mental health issues, protective orders, and drug-related offenses can also disqualify you from owning a gun in Arizona. Before attempting to purchase or own a gun, it’s essential to understand the state’s laws and regulations regarding firearms.
