Under South Carolina Law
If you are convicted of domestic violence in South Carolina, you will lose your right to own or possess a firearm. The length of time that you are prohibited from possessing a firearm depends on what level of domestic violence conviction you receive.
Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Convictions
Both Domestic Violence 3rd Degree and Domestic Violence 2nd Degree are designated as misdemeanors under South Carolina Law. Domestic Violence 3rd Degree carries up to 90 days in jail, and Domestic Violence 2nd Degree carries up to 3 years in prison. If you are convicted of either Domestic Violence 3rd Degree or Domestic Violence 2nd Degree, you lose your right to possess, ship, transport, or receive a firearm for a period of 3 years. The 3 years begins at the date of conviction or the date of release from confinement, whichever occurs later.
FelonY Domestic Violence Convictions
Domestic Violence 1st Degree is a felony that carries up to 10 years in prison. If you are convicted of Domestic Violence 1st Degree, you lose your right to possess, ship, transport, or receive a firearm for a period of 10 years. The 10 years begins at the date of conviction or the date of release of confinement, whichever occurs later.
Domestic Violence of a High and Aggravated Nature is a felony that carries up to 20 years in prison. If you are convicted of Domestic Violence of a High and Aggravated Nature, you lose your right to possess, ship, transport, or receive a firearm for life.
Federal Law & Domestic Violence Convictions
With all of this being said, under federal law, if you are convicted of any type of domestic violence charge, you are prohibited from receipt or possession of a firearm for life.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer
As you can see, there are significant collateral consequences associated with a domestic violence conviction. If you need to speak with a criminal defense lawyer who handles domestic violence cases, please give us a call at (864) 467-3221.
