Have you been wrongly delayed or denied when trying to purchase a firearm in Cincinnati, Ohio? A voluntary appeal file (VAF) is a process managed by the FBI to help clear up errors in the national background check system, so you aren’t unfairly held up during a gun purchase. Having a criminal defense lawyer guide you through the VAF process is important because the paperwork can be confusing, and any mistakes can cause more delays.
An experienced Cincinnati attorney can make sure your information is accurately submitted. Contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers at (513) 333-0014 to schedule a free consultation with an appeals and voluntary appeal file lawyer.
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Why Hire Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers If You’ve Been Denied a Firearm Purchase?
If you’ve recently been denied the purchase of a firearm because of a background check issue, the steps you take next are important. Fixing these problems on your own can be frustrating and confusing, but Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers can guide you through the process.
Here’s what sets our team of Cincinnati criminal defense attorneys apart:
- Over 100 years of combined legal experience navigating complex legal records, background checks, and appeals
- A legal team that includes former police officers and prosecutors, offering a firsthand understanding of law enforcement procedures and the criminal justice system
- Lawyers honored by the National Trial Lawyers Top 100, awarded the Super Lawyers designation, and holding a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating
- A proven record of walking clients through every step of the VAF process to prevent future denials.
You don’t have to face long delays or repeated denials alone. Our team can help you assert your rights in Cincinnati, Ohio. Contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Cincinnati appeals and voluntary appeal file lawyer.
Overview of Appeals and Voluntary Appeal Files in Ohio
If you think your attempt to buy a gun was turned down by mistake, you have the right to file a firearm-related challenge. This type of appeal is available only when your purchase has been denied, not if the process is slow or put on hold.
Through this appeal process, you’ll receive a clear explanation from the authorities about why your background check resulted in a denial. You’ll also get to contest the denial online by submitting information or documents that may clear up the issue.
You Can Also File a Voluntary Appeal File
You may also benefit from filing a VAF if you have been mistakenly flagged when trying to purchase a gun. The VAF lets the FBI keep information on file showing that you are not prohibited from owning firearms.
This helps speed up future background checks and dramatically reduces the chance of being turned down for a firearms purchase because of old or incorrect data.
Issues That Lead to VAF Filings
Some people find themselves delayed or unable to purchase a firearm because of mix-ups or errors in background checks. Understanding what causes these problems and how a VAF can help makes it easier to protect your rights.
Misdemeanor Convictions
Sometimes, old or minor misdemeanor convictions appear on a background check in error, even when they shouldn’t stop you from making a lawful firearm purchase.
Common Names
If you have the same name, or one similar to someone with a serious offense on their record, the system might mistakenly connect your identity to theirs, leading to unfair denials.
Unresolved Discrepancies
Mistakes in public records or personal data, as well as cases of identity confusion, can flag your background check and slow down or prevent your firearm purchase.
Filing a VAF gives you a way to clear up these misunderstandings.
What Happens After Filing a VAF?
If you submit a VAF to correct background check errors, it’s important to know what comes next.
Here’s what you can expect after your application is filed:
The FBI’s Response
Once your VAF is received, the FBI will review your submission. Outcomes can vary. They might approve your request quickly, ask for more details, or decide to investigate your case further if anything is unclear. It’s not uncommon for appeals to go through several rounds of review before everything is sorted out.
Impact on Future Background Checks
If your VAF is approved and the previous error is corrected, future attempts to purchase a firearm should go much smoother. Your cleared record should prevent the same background check problems from coming up again.
If you have been denied the purchase of a firearm because of background check errors or delays, you do not have to try to fix the problem alone. Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers is ready to help you clear up these issues and guide you through the voluntary appeal file process.
We are committed to protecting your rights and making sure your information is accurate going forward. Contact us today to discuss your situation during a free and confidential consultation with a Cincinnati appeals and voluntary appeal file attorney.
