Federal Firearms Restrictions in Mississippi: Domestic Violence Convictions & Protection Orders

Even a misdemeanor conviction or a court-issued protection order can have life-changing effects on your rights — including your right to own or carry a firearm. Many people are surprised to learn that under federal law, a single misdemeanor domestic violence conviction or a qualifying protection order can make it unlawful to possess a gun.

At McCormick Lawrence, we represent people throughout Mississippi who are facing domestic violence charges and protection orders. We know that protecting your record is also about protecting your future, your family, and your rights.

What Federal Law Says

Federal law prohibits firearm possession in two key situations:

• 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9): If you’ve been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
• 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8): If you are subject to a qualifying protection order.

If either applies to you, it becomes a federal offense to possess, ship, transport, or receive a firearm or ammunition. A violation can result in up to 10 years in federal prison.

What Counts as a “Misdemeanor Crime of Domestic Violence”?

Not every misdemeanor is covered, but many are. A conviction qualifies if:

• It’s a misdemeanor under state or federal law, and
• It involved the use or attempted use of physical force, or the threatened use of a deadly weapon, and
• The victim was a spouse, partner, parent, child, or someone in a similar family or household relationship with you.

It doesn’t matter if the conviction happened last year or twenty years ago — the restriction still applies.

What Counts as a “Qualifying Protection Order”?

Federal law may apply if you are subject to a court order that:

• Was issued after notice and an opportunity for you to be heard,
• Restrains you from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or child, or engaging in conduct that causes fear of harm, and
• Includes a finding that you are a credible threat to their safety or prohibits you from using or threatening force.

For federal purposes, “intimate partner” includes:

• Your spouse
• Your former spouse
• The parent of your child
• Anyone with whom you currently live or have lived as a partner

Can You Still Carry a Firearm for Work?

If you’ve been convicted: No. Federal law does not allow any exceptions. You cannot carry a firearm, even for official duties.

If you’re subject to a protection order: Possibly. There is a narrow exception for government employees required to carry a firearm as part of their job, but it only applies to government-issued firearms while on duty. Off duty, you cannot possess a firearm.

What Should You Do If You’re Affected?

If you’ve been convicted of a qualifying misdemeanor or are subject to a protection order:

• Do not keep firearms or ammunition in your possession.
• Dispose of them lawfully by transferring them to a licensed dealer or a trusted third party.
• Speak with an attorney immediately to understand your rights and options.

In some cases, expungement, a pardon, or other legal relief may allow you to restore your rights — but that starts with handling the underlying case correctly.

Why This Matters in Domestic Violence Cases

The firearm prohibition is one of the most serious consequences of a domestic violence conviction or protection order. At McCormick Lawrence, we work with clients not only to defend against the criminal charge but also to prepare them for the long-term consequences that may come after.

We have represented hundreds of clients in domestic violence and protection order cases throughout Mississippi. We know how these cases affect your future, your family, and your rights — and we are here to help.

Contact Us Today

If you’re facing a domestic violence charge or a protection order in Mississippi, don’t risk losing your gun rights without understanding the law. Call McCormick Lawrence today for a consultation.