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Sunday, July 8, 2012

Can I possess a gun if I have been convicted of a drug offense in Minnesota?

If you have been convicted or adjudicated delinquent of a controlled substance crime in Minnesota, you are prohibited for life from possessing, receiving, shipping or transporting a firearm. A controlled substance crime has been defined by the legislature as being a "crime of violence" along with other crimes like murder, assault and criminal sexual conduct. The lifetime prohibition against firearm possession only applies to those persons who have been convicted or adjudicated delinquent of felony level controlled substance crimes. The lifetime ban does not apply to a person who has successfully completed a pre-trial drug diversion program and  had the  charge dismissed. The prohibition against firearm possession does apply while a person is participating in a drug diversion program. A person who violates the lifetime ban and possess a firearm can be charged with a new felony offense and sentenced  for up to 15 years in prison.

If you or someone you know has been charged with a felony controlled substance crime in Minnesota, you will need to retain an experienced criminal defense attorney. Robert J. Shane has 29 years of criminal defense experience and will work hard to protect your gun rights.Call now for a free phone consultation at (612) 339-1024 or visit his website for more information at www.criminallawyerminnesota.com.