Firearm Rights and Expunction

The Second Amendment protects the right to keep and bear arms, and Texas law gives gun owners specific tools to protect that right. GFA LAW represents gun owners in Temple, Bell County and across Texas in criminal cases involving firearms, in efforts to recover seized firearms, and in clearing records of past weapons arrests.

Unlawful Carry and Weapons Charges

Since September 1, 2021, most adults 21 and older who can legally possess a handgun may carry one in Texas without a license. Officers still make arrests for unlawful carry, places where weapons are prohibited, and possession by a prohibited person. We examine whether the stop and search were lawful, whether the location was properly posted, and whether the State can prove each element of the offense.

Getting Seized Firearms Back

When police seize a firearm, Texas law sets out a process for its return. Under Article 18.19 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, an owner who is not prohibited from possessing a firearm may ask for its return after a case is dismissed or ends without a conviction, and the court can order it released. Agencies often hold firearms until someone files the right request, so acting promptly matters.

Expunction of Past Unlawful Carry Arrests

House Bill 1927 created a path to expunge certain unlawful carry arrests and convictions for conduct that would be legal under the current permitless carry law. Other arrests may qualify for expunction or an order of nondisclosure depending on how the case ended. We review your records and tell you which option, if any, fits your history.

What to Gather

• Arrest paperwork, citations and property receipts

• Court documents showing how the case ended

• Serial numbers and proof of ownership for seized firearms

• Names of the officers and agency involved

This page is general information and is not legal advice for your situation. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes.