This is the first post in a series of articles discussing handling FOID Card appeals in Peoria, Illinois. The State of Illinois requires residents who wish to acquire and possess guns to obtain a Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) Card. Before purchasing or possessing a gun or ammunition, one must apply and be approved for a FOID Card through the Illinois State Police (ISP). There are several reasons why the ISP may deny a FOID Card or revoke a previously granted FOID Card. It is possible in some cases to appeal this decision. The goal of this series is to provide information about the FOID Card appeals process. It is also a goal of this series to emphasize the importance of hiring an experienced attorney to assist with your appeal. If you have been denied a FOID Card or your FOID Card has been revoked, contact my office to speak with a lawyer.
This series will focus on several key topics, including:
- The importance of hiring an attorney to handle a FOID Card appeal
- How an attorney can assist you in a FOID Card appeal
- What to expect when appealing a FOID Card denial or revocation
These factors are important when considering a FOID Card appeal for a variety of reasons. First, when handling the appeal, one will be required to present evidence in support of the appeal and meet a certain burden of proof to overturn the ISP’s decision. An experienced attorney will understand what types of legal arguments and evidence will be important to an administrative hearing officer or judge and how best to convey that information on your behalf. Second, an attorney will understand how to conduct investigations, subpoena necessary records, and otherwise gather the supporting evidence for your appeal. Further, a lawyer may help you avoid costly mistakes that could delay your appeal or result in its denial. Finally, it is important to have a reasonable expectation of what one can expect during the appeals process.
Being denied a FOID Card can have a drastic impact on your lifestyle. In some cases, it may prevent one from seeking employment in certain industries and can unnecessarily restrict your right to bear arms. If you need assistance appealing a FOID Card denial, contact my office today to speak to a Peoria lawyer. My office also represents clients in Bloomington, Decatur, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington. We also serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford.