What is the Brady Bill and How Does it Relate to Gun Control?

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

These days, it seems as though national gun-related crimes are gaining frequency every time we turn on the news. And from all these reports and unfortunate events, the inquiry that never fails to arise is a question of whether or not the assailant should have had access to a gun. In the United States, every adult has the right to bear arms, according to our country’s constitution. But in today’s society, it is very easy for a person to lose their right to carry, posses, own, or purchase a firearm.

The state and federal governments can disqualify an individual of these rights based on their criminal record. In fact, there is a term called, Brady Disqualified that is used in gun control law. It is related to the Brady Bill, which we will discuss further in this blog. Continue reading to learn about the Brady Bill and how it relates to gun control in our country.

Brady Disqualifications

The Brady Bill, also called the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, was passed by congress in the mid-1990’s with the help of a man named James Brady. James Brady was an assistant and Press Secretary to Ronald Reagan . On March 30, 1981 in Washington, Brady and Reagan were walking in-between the Washington Hilton Hotel, on their way to the Presidential motorcade. During this walk, a man named John Hinckley Jr. shot Brady in an attempt to assassinate the President. James Brady suffered a gunshot wound to the left eye, leaving him alive, but in serious condition. He was not only blind in the left eye, he also suffered partial paralysis and slurred speech, causing him to spend the majority of his life afterwards in a wheelchair. From that day, Brady and his wife dedicated the rest of their lives lobbying for gun control. They wished for laws to place tight restrictions on handguns and other assault weapons. As a result of their passion and fervency, Brady was able to help facilitate the passing of the Brady Bill.

The Brady Bill altered the political landscape for gun ownership and possession. Any person that wished to purchase a firearm from a federally-licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer was required to pass a full background check. An FBI-based system called the NICS check, or National Instant Criminal Background Check System, is still used to this day to run these scans. It also placed specific exclusions and restrictions on the right to own, possess, or purchase firearms.

For example, if a person has a criminal conviction that was punishable by a jail term of more than one year, is a fugitive of the law, is a habitual substance abuser, has been adjudicated as being mentally ill or committed to a mental institution, is an illegal alien, has been dishonorably discharged from armed forces, has relinquished citizenship, or was convicted of stalking, harassment, Domestic Violence Lawyer, making threats, or other Violent Crimes Lawyer, they can be Brady Disqualified from owning or possessing a firearm.

In Indiana, in order to be Brady Disqualified under any of the above-mentioned exclusions, there has to be a court order and hearing addressing the specific events that disqualifies a person of their right to bear arms. To undo a Brady Disqualification, a court order is needed. It is best to discuss your rights with an experienced criminal defense attorney. They have the knowledge and resources to accurately assess your case and divulge your rights.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense Lawyer 317-636-7514

Call The Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for information about Brady Disqualifications in Indianapolis, Indiana. David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, is experienced in criminal defense that can help you with your legal problems. If you have been charged with a crime that could potentially preclude your right to bear arms, call Attorney David E. Lewis for help with your case. Call 317-636-7514 and schedule a free initial consultation for criminal defense in Indianapolis, IN today.