Under federal law ( 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) ), a "fugitive from justice" is prohibited from possessing or purchasing firearms.
: While minor traffic warrants might not always trigger a denial in every state, warrants related to domestic violence , stalking, or restraining orders almost always result in an immediate federal and state denial. 3. The Background Check Process (NICS) Overview of Key California Firearms Laws
: Some states, like California and Virginia , explicitly prohibit anyone with any outstanding felony or "specified misdemeanor" warrant from purchasing a firearm. if i have a warrant can i buy a gun
: In California, the prohibition applies if you have knowledge of the outstanding warrant.
Buying a gun while having an active warrant is highly risky and often illegal, depending on the type of warrant and your location . While federal law has narrowed its definition of who is prohibited, many state laws remain much stricter, and attempting the purchase can lead to immediate arrest or new criminal charges. Under federal law ( 18 U
: As of 2017, the Department of Justice narrowed this definition to only include individuals who have (1) fled the state where the warrant was issued, (2) did so to avoid prosecution, and (3) are subject to imminent criminal prosecution.
: Regardless of fugitive status, you are federally barred from purchasing a gun if you are currently under indictment for any crime punishable by more than one year in prison (typically felonies). 2. State-Specific Restrictions Buying a gun while having an active warrant
Many states have stricter rules than the federal government and do not follow the narrowed "fugitive" definition.