Restoring Gun Rights in South Carolina

In South Carolina, firearm rights lost due to conviction can be restored via:

1. Expungement: Eligible offenses (mostly non-violent, first-time) removed from record → rights restored automatically. File with Solicitor's Office.
2. Governor's Pardon: Restores civil rights (including firearms). Application to Governor's Office; considers nature of crime, time elapsed, rehabilitation. Not automatic.
3. Executive Order: Rare; for groups with common circumstances.
4. Private Relief Act: General Assembly passes bill for individual. Very rare.

Federal prohibition (felony, domestic violence) also applies; state restoration may not override federal law. Consult a SC firearms attorney before proceeding.