June 3, 2026 | Gun Laws
For years, many Ohio residents with felony convictions faced a frustrating legal problem when trying to restore their firearm rights. Even if they had completed their sentence, remained law-abiding, and otherwise qualified for relief, courts often concluded that a related federal firearm prohibition prevented them from obtaining restoration under Ohio law.
A recent Ohio Supreme Court decision may change that. In State v. Heffley, the Ohio Supreme Court clarified that individuals whose state and federal firearm disabilities arise from the same Ohio conviction may still be eligible to seek restoration of their firearm rights through Ohio’s relief-from-disability process.
The decision removes a legal roadblock that had prevented many applicants from even having their requests considered by a court.
What Happened in State v. Heffley?
The case involved a man who was convicted of felony domestic violence in Ohio in 2006. Because the conviction was classified as a felony offense of violence, Ohio law prohibited him from possessing firearms.
The same conviction also triggered a federal firearm disability. Years after completing his sentence and successfully remaining law-abiding, he filed an application under Ohio Revised Code § 2923.14 seeking relief from his firearm disability. The trial court denied the request, finding that he remained prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law and therefore could not qualify for relief under Ohio law.
The Ohio Supreme Court disagreed. The Court held that when state and federal firearm disabilities arise from the same Ohio conviction, the applicant is not automatically disqualified from seeking relief under R.C. 2923.14.
Instead, the trial court may consider whether the applicant satisfies the statutory requirements and whether restoration is appropriate under the circumstances.
Why This Decision Matters
Prior to Heffley, some courts interpreted Ohio law in a way that created a legal catch-22.
The reasoning went something like this:
- A person needed Ohio firearm rights restored to remove the related federal disability.
- But the federal disability prevented the person from qualifying for Ohio restoration.
- As a result, some applicants were effectively barred from obtaining relief.
The Ohio Supreme Court rejected that interpretation.
According to the Court, the phrase “otherwise prohibited by law” does not automatically prevent restoration when both disabilities stem from the same Ohio conviction. The decision allows courts to evaluate eligible applications instead of denying them outright.
Does Heffley Automatically Restore Firearm Rights?
No. One of the most important parts of the decision is what it does not do. The Ohio Supreme Court did not restore the applicant’s gun rights. It also did not create automatic eligibility for every person with a felony conviction.
Rather, the Court remanded the case to the trial court to determine whether the applicant met the statutory requirements and whether relief should be granted. Trial judges still have discretion when deciding these applications.
Applicants generally must demonstrate that:
- They have completed their sentence
- They have been fully discharged from supervision
- They have led a law-abiding life since release
- They appear likely to continue doing so
- No other independent firearm disability applies
Even after Heffley, courts may still deny restoration requests based on the facts of a particular case.
What Is the Process for Restoring Firearm Rights in Ohio?
Ohio law allows certain individuals to file an application for relief from a firearm disability in the county where they reside.
The court may review:
- The underlying conviction
- The applicant’s criminal history
- Evidence of rehabilitation
- Community involvement
- Compliance with prior court orders
- Whether the applicant has remained law-abiding
Because these proceedings are highly fact-specific, preparation of the application can be important.
What Should Someone Do If They Were Previously Denied?
One of the more significant questions following Heffley is whether individuals who were previously denied relief may now have new options available to appeal the denial. The answer depends on the reason for the prior denial and the specific circumstances involved.
Some individuals may benefit from having an attorney review their previous application and determine whether the recent decision affects their situation. Because the law in this area continues to evolve, obtaining legal guidance can help clarify what options may be available.
Call Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers for a Free Consultation With Our Cincinnati Gun Rights Lawyers Today
The Ohio Supreme Court’s decision in State v. Heffley represents an important development in Ohio firearm-rights restoration law. While the ruling does not guarantee that any particular application will be granted, it removes a legal barrier that prevented many applicants from having their cases fully considered.
If you have questions about restoring firearm rights after a felony conviction, appealing a firearm-related denial, or determining whether you may qualify for relief under Ohio law, contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. Our Cincinnati gun rights attorneys can review your case, explain how recent legal developments may affect your rights, and discuss potential next steps.
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