[MO] Can I own a gun with an SIS in Missouri?

Lexi, Chatbot

I understand this can be stressful. Have you already completed your sentence or probation for the robbery and weapon charges?

Lexi, Chatbot

Are you looking to purchase a firearm now, or just want general information about ownership rights in Missouri?

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you?

Jon

Hello, and thank you for reaching out!

I’m Jon, a licensed attorney with over 13 years of experience, and I’m here to help. I know legal matters like this can be confusing, but you’re in good hands.
Let’s walk through your situation clearly. You were convicted of unlawful use of a weapon, and you want to know if you can buy and possess a firearm now, correct?

Jon

Got it. Thanks — that helps. Give me a few minutes to summarize everything for you.

Jon

Here’s the detailed breakdown:

1. Missouri Law (SIS – Suspended Imposition of Sentence)

In Missouri, an SIS means that if you successfully completed probation, the charge is not treated as a conviction for state law purposes.
That means under Missouri law alone, once your probation ended successfully, you technically do not have a conviction on your record.

So, at the state level, it might appear that you could own or possess a firearm.

However — and this is critical —

2. Federal Law Still Applies (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1))

Federal law does not necessarily recognize Missouri’s SIS distinction.

Under federal law, anyone convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year in prison cannot possess a firearm.
Even if the state considers your SIS “not a conviction,” federal authorities may still view it as a disqualifying offense because the charge (first-degree robbery) was punishable by more than one year.

So, while Missouri law might seem to allow gun ownership, federal law likely prohibits it. That means you could fail a federal background check or face federal prosecution for possession.

3. The Unlawful Use of a Weapon Conviction

This part is significant.

In Missouri, Unlawful Use of a Weapon (UUW) is usually a Class D felony.
If that conviction stands as a felony, you’re prohibited under both Missouri and federal law from owning or possessing firearms. Even if it was a misdemeanor, certain types (especially those involving domestic violence) can still trigger a federal firearm ban.

4. Restoring Your Firearm Rights

There are two main ways to restore your firearm rights in Missouri:

1. Expungement:

• Available for certain offenses after a waiting period (usually 3 years after completing all terms).
• You must have no new convictions.
• Requires filing a petition for expungement and possibly a hearing.
• If granted, your record is sealed and you may regain firearm rights under state law.

1. Governor’s Pardon:

• A direct pardon from the Governor of Missouri can also restore firearm rights.
• This is a discretionary process and can take time.

A local criminal defense attorney can help determine whether your specific conviction qualifies for expungement or if you’d need to pursue a pardon instead.

Jon

You’re very welcome. I hope that helped clarify things for you. If there’s anything else you’d like me to go over — such as expungement steps or the federal restoration process — I’m happy to help.

Wishing you all the best moving forward.