Barriers to Obtaining an FOID
The state of Illinois has extremely restrictive gun laws, owing mostly to its long struggle with early to mid-century organized crime in Chicago. One of the most immediate impediments to the purchase or possession of a firearm is the requirement that you obtain and maintain a Firearms Owner’s Identification Card, or FOID.
A FOID card is valid for 10 years after it is issued, and it is the responsibility of the gun owner to ensure that their card is available and valid, although the state will send notice of within 60 days of an FOID’s expiration. The penalties for illegal possession in the state are harsh, and care should be taken that you not expose yourself to the risk of prosecution under these charges.
FOID Requirements
For most citizens, the process of obtaining a FOID card is as simple as filling out an application and waiting for your card to arrive in the mail. A thorough background check is conducted to ensure the intent of the potential gun owner, and the following applicants will be denied:
- Known narcotics addicts
- Illegal aliens
- Persons who have been convicted of a violent crime in the past 5 years
- Persons with a mental handicap
- Convicted felons
- Minors under 21 years of age
If you are charged with possessing a weapon without a valid FOID, it is essential that you seek skilled legal representation immediately to protect your rights and interests.
Contact Us
The Champaign illegal weapon possession attorneys of Bruno Law Offices are dedicated to defending our clients and will work tirelessly to resolve any case favorably. If you are facing illegal weapons possession charges, contact us at (217) 328-6000 for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.