New Jersey Attorneys Can Help: The Gun Permit Process in NJ

New Jersey Attorneys Can Help: The Gun Permit Process in NJ

At times throughout the year, specifically in summer months, New Jersey citizens inquire about purchasing firearms. Whether it be sport shooting on the weekends, hunting throughout the season, or even protection for their home, New Jersey citizens have a true interest in gun ownership. When we discuss the process of applying for a firearm purchase permit with potential clients, the first thing we tell them is that it is truly not easy to obtain a Firearm Purchaser Identification card (FPID) or Handgun Purchase Permit (HPP) in New Jersey. We follow that statement by informing them that it is even harder to obtain a License to Carry a firearm on your person. Simply put, New Jersey has strict gun laws compared to other states around the country. 

Any New Jersey citizen wishing to purchase a pistol will need to apply for a Handgun Purchase Permit (HPP). You must be at least 21 years of age to apply for a HPP. Any New Jersey citizen wishing to purchase a long gun, rifle, or shotgun must apply for a Firearm Purchaser Identification card (FPID). You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a FPID. It is important to note that the application must be filled out accurately and truthfully and multiple copies may need to be submitted. References are required and will be contacted. In addition, a medical health records search form will need to be submitted, which allows for a mental health background check to be conducted. The applicant will also need to photocopy their driver’s license and social security card, and will need to be fingerprinted, typically at outside location. It should be noted that any gun safety course documentation, gun training, or proof of experience can be considered in the application process. There is an application fee, fingerprinting fee, and $5 fee that applies for ever permit you are requesting. 

Once the application and documentation is submitted to the local police department, by law, the department is to notify the applicant within 30 days as to whether or not their application was approved. Although the law requires a response within 30 days, the time requirement is often ignored and the process can take months to complete. At times, citizens are denied permits to purchase by their local police departments because of an inaccurate application or because there was an issue of concern that surfaced in the mental health background check. That is why it is common for individuals to retain the assistance of an attorney to review the gun purchase application, medical health records, and issue a letter to accompany the application to the local police chief. Hiring an attorney before an application is submitted can be beneficial to those who are unsure of whether their application will be approved. Hiring an attorney is also beneficial because a New Jersey attorney will also be persistent in assuring the police department review the application and respond within the 30 days required by New Jersey law.

If you are a New Jersey resident and are interested in retaining an attorney to assist in obtaining a permit to purchase a firearm, contact Roberts & Teeter, LLC today. 732-325-0814