The Pennsylvania Instant Check System, or PICS, is used as a thorough background check tool to ensure that someone who is purchasing a firearm in the state of Pennsylvania is eligible to do so. The system gives state police instant access to background records that can be used to determine eligibility.
While the PICS system is there to provide protection and safety for gun owners and citizens alike, it can also cause problems for some people. If you are attempting to purchase a firearm in Pennsylvania and you are encountering any problems with the PICS system, then a lawyer can offer their assistance as you work through your issues.
A Pennsylvania PICS check lawyer from McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. will work to determine the cause of your PICS check problems and defend your rights. Our Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer is committed to representing the legal rights of our clients in every case. Once you take us on as lawyers, we are available to answer your questions and address your concerns via email, text message, and phone.
Firearms Ownership Background Checks in Pennsylvania
Your background must not reflect certain criminal offenses if you want to qualify for a firearms license in the state of Pennsylvania. According to the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Bureau of Records and Identification, some of these offenses include:
- Conviction of a substance-related offense (punishable by more than two years imprisonment)
- Conviction of a DUI on three or more instances within five years
- Involuntary commitment to a mental institution under certain conditions
- Being the subject of an active abuse order
In addition to these Pennsylvania restrictions, other federal restrictions on criminal history also apply to firearms applicants. You may not have been indicted for or convicted of a misdemeanor (if the maximum prison term exceeded two years) or a felony (if the maximum prison sentence exceeded one year).
According to the PSP, the PICS check system can instantly recall any pertinent background records on an individual who is applying to purchase a firearm in the state of Pennsylvania. If you are applying for a license to carry a firearm, a Pennsylvania sheriff also has the right to conduct an investigation to determine whether or not the license will be granted. If a sheriff would like to proceed with an investigation, they have up to 45 days to do so.
For a free legal consultation with a pics check lawyer serving Pennsylvania, call (610) 680-7842
Common PICS Check Problems
While some firearms applications will be instantly approved, other applications will be initially denied or require further investigation.
As can be the case with any form of database, the PICS system is subject to occasional errors. If your PICS check was denied, there may be legitimate reasons for your denial, or your denial may have been made in error. The detailed background information available in the PICS system can cause some major problems for anyone who has past criminal charges or records in their history.
There are several reasons why your PICS check may have failed, including:
- Criminal records
- Former offenses that were improperly recorded or categorized
Even if you have previous criminal charges that were unrelated to firearms, they may still trigger a red flag once the system pulls them up. In such cases, those who have their PICS check denied may face further complications beyond their inability to purchase a firearm. In some cases, state police may enact a more serious investigation.
If you are having any problems with the PICS system, then trying to handle your issues alone can be challenging and stressful. A Pennsylvania PICS check lawyer will stand up for justice on your behalf.
The team at McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. is here to preserve your legal position and explain your options when you are dealing with a PICS check issue. We can explain if there are any state or federal laws that apply to your particular case, and we can also discuss methods of challenging your denial.
Pennsylvania PICS Check Lawyer Near Me (610) 680-7842
Challenging a PICS Denial
It can be frustrating to face setbacks with your firearms application. However, you may be able to challenge a denial. If you were applying for a firearm at a dealer, the dealer should let you know that you have a right to challenge this denial through a PICS Challenge Form SP4-197.
You have thirty days to file this paperwork after a conviction. A lawyer can speak with you more about how to process this paperwork and pursue your rights.
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Our Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Attorneys Offer Confidential, Client-Focused Legal Care
If you are facing any current criminal charges, you will want to begin working on your defense immediately. This is also something our firm can help you with. We tailor our legal strategies to suit our clients’ needs because we know that each case is unique. We will work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, such as dropped or reduced charges.
When you work with our Pennsylvania criminal defense attorneys, we provide confidential, client-focused legal services.
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Work With Our PICS Check Lawyer Today
If you have experienced any legal trouble, fines, penalties, criminal charges, or convictions in the state of Pennsylvania, then it is easy to get discouraged. Problems with the Pennsylvania Instant Check System often create conditions that may be challenging to overcome on your own. In many cases, a single rejection of your PICS check can lead to future complications. But you do not have to fight the legal system alone.
A Pennsylvania PICS check lawyer from the McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. can stand by your side to offer you a legal defense and pursue justice on your behalf. When we take you on as a client, you can rest assured that we are available by phone, text, email, and other communication methods whenever you need us.
To learn more about how we can be of service to you, call our office for your free case evaluation.
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