Local law enforcement charged a ZLF client with the Unlawful Sale/Transfer of a Firearm and Unsworn Falsification to Authorities in connection with an attempt to lawfully purchase a gun. The client had a prior juvenile adjudication for a 1st Degree Misdemeanor offense punishable by up to 5 years in jail. Not knowing that this was considered a conviction under PA law, he improperly answered the question wrong about whether or not he was convicted of a charge punishable by up to 1 year in jail.

The court dismissed the charges at the preliminary hearing, concluding that the Defendant made an error on the form, and did not act knowingly with the intent to mislead a public servant. The client is now eligible to expunge his juvenile record and the records of his arrest on this case.

If you have ever had any involvement whatsoever with the criminal justice system, you should not attempt to buy a gun or apply for an open carry permit without reviewing your own criminal history with a lawyer.