Introduction

The right to bear arms is a cornerstone of American freedom, but federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) prohibits certain individuals—such as those with felony convictions or mental health adjudications—from possessing firearms. These prohibitions can sometimes outlast their purpose, unfairly restricting law-abiding citizens. Thankfully, 18 U.S.C. § 925C offers a pathway to restore firearm rights, and recent regulatory changes under the Trump administration have revitalized this process, with the FBI now handling applications. At The Davis Law Firm (www.calgunlawyers.com), our experienced firearms attorneys are ready to guide you through this complex procedure. This article explores the purpose, application, process, and recent updates to 18 U.S.C. § 925C, highlighting how we can help you reclaim your Second Amendment rights.

Purpose of 18 U.S.C. § 925C

The core purpose of 18 U.S.C. § 925C is to allow individuals barred from possessing firearms to petition for relief, restoring their constitutional rights. The statute is designed to:

• Provide a Fair Opportunity: Enable individuals to prove they no longer pose a public safety risk and deserve to have their firearm rights restored.
• Balance Rights and Safety: Ensure only those meeting stringent criteria regain their Second Amendment protections, safeguarding the public.
• Correct Outdated Prohibitions: Address cases where a firearm disability is no longer justified, such as after rehabilitation or changed circumstances.

With The Davis Law Firm’s expertise, you can navigate this process with confidence, ensuring your application is thorough and compelling.

Application of 18 U.S.C. § 925C

18 U.S.C. § 925C applies to individuals prohibited from possessing, shipping, transporting, or receiving firearms or ammunition under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) or (n). This includes:

• Convicted felons.
• Individuals with misdemeanor domestic violence convictions.
• Those subject to certain restraining orders.
• Persons adjudicated as mentally defective or committed to a mental institution.
• Other prohibited categories, such as fugitives or unlawful drug users.

The statute permits the Attorney General, through the FBI, to grant relief if the applicant demonstrates:

• The circumstances of the disability (e.g., conviction or mental health history) and their current record and reputation show they are not likely to endanger public safety.
• Restoring their rights aligns with the public interest.

For decades, this program was stalled due to funding restrictions. However, recent regulatory changes have reinstated it, and The Davis Law Firm is at the forefront, helping clients seize this opportunity.

The Process of Seeking Relief Under 18 U.S.C. § 925C

The process for seeking relief under 18 U.S.C. § 925C, now managed by the FBI, is detailed and requires careful preparation. The Davis Law Firm streamlines this process for you, ensuring every step is handled professionally. Here’s how it works:

1. Eligibility Assessment: Our attorneys at The Davis Law Firm will evaluate whether you qualify for relief under 18 U.S.C. § 925C, reviewing your prohibiting event and current circumstances.
2. Application Preparation: We will help you compile a robust application for the FBI, including:
   • A detailed explanation of the prohibiting event (e.g., conviction or mental health adjudication).
   • Evidence of rehabilitation, such as completed probation, counseling, or community involvement.
   • Strong character references to support your reputation and safety.
   • A persuasive statement on why restoring your rights serves the public interest.
3. FBI Review Process: The FBI will investigate your application, which may involve background checks, reference interviews, and mental health evaluations (if applicable). Our team ensures your application is complete to withstand scrutiny.
4. FBI Decision: The FBI will decide whether to grant relief. If approved, your firearm rights are restored. If denied, The Davis Law Firm can assist with pursuing judicial review in federal court.
5. Alternative Options: If § 925C relief is not viable, we can explore alternatives like expungement, pardons, or other judicial remedies, tailoring our strategy to your case.
6. Ongoing Support: From start to finish, The Davis Law Firm provides personalized guidance, keeping you informed and advocating for your rights.

Our proven track record in firearms law makes us the ideal partner to navigate this process. Visit www.calgunlawyers.com or call 866-545-GUNS to learn more about our services.

Recent Regulatory Update

On March 20, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice, under Attorney General Pam Bondi, issued an interim final rule titled “Withdrawing the Attorney General’s Delegation of Authority,” revitalizing the 18 U.S.C. § 925C program. This action, driven by President Trump’s Executive Order 14206 (February 6, 2025), directed the Attorney General to ease burdens on Second Amendment rights. The rule delegates authority to the FBI to process relief applications, overcoming decades of funding restrictions, thereby reviving the 18 U.S.C. §925C program which was barred from expending any resources while under the jurisdiction of the ATF.