A Firearm Purchase Denial occurs when an individual is denied the ability to purchase a firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL)–the seller.  There are numerous reasons for why a purchase may be denied, but in this event, the prospective buyer has the right to appeal–or challenge–the denial.  This process is known as a Firearm-Related Challenge.

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE PROCESS

The Firearm-Related Challenge is managed by the Department of Justice through the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Although the process may be conducted via the U.S. Mail, you can submit your challenge online.  In order to submit a challenge through the mail, your Firearm-Related Challenge may be sent to following address:

FBI CJIS Division
Attn: Criminal History Analysis Team 1
BTC 3
1000 Custer Hollow Road
Clarksburg, WV 26306

FIREARM-RELATED CHALLENGE APPLICATION 

According to the Department of Justice, a Firearm Purchase Denial may be challenged as follows:

“You may challenge the reason(s) for your firearm-related denial. You must be able to provide either a NICS Transaction Number (NTN) or a State Transaction Number (STN) when making this request. If you do not have your NTN or STN, please contact the Federal Firearm Licensee or the agency that conducted your firearm-related check.

Supporting Documentation: You may provide supporting documentation to assist in correcting or updating the record used in the evaluation of your firearm-related check. Supporting documentation can be uploaded and attached to the application when making the request electronically. You may also provide supporting documentation to the FBI via the mail.

Fingerprint Card: You may provide a fingerprint card via the mail to assist in determining if you are or are not the same person in comparison to the record used in the evaluation of your firearm-related check.”  DOJ Website.

The Department of Justice makes a clear distinction between challenging a denial and simply being delayed in the purchase process.  A delay when purchasing refers to the need for additional research to accurately verify an individual’s criminal history.  Although delays can be quite lengthy, a delay does not allow for a Firearm-Related Challenge.

CONTACT US

If you find yourself dealing with a Firearm Purchase Denial, or if you have a few questions, we are here to help.  Give us a call today at 770-415-9849 at The Sellers Law Firm: where clients become family.

You may also submit a case evaluation request form HERE.