Know the Laws: New Hampshire
UPDATED November 20, 2008
WomensLaw.org strongly recommends that you get in touch with a domestic violence advocate in your community for more information on gun laws in your area. Go to the NH Where to Fine Help page to find help.
- Basic Info
- Guns and Protective Orders
- Guns and Criminal Convictions
- More Information and Where to Get Help
Basic Info
back to topI am a victim of domestic violence and my abuser has a gun. Do I have legal options for getting the gun away from my abuser?
Yes. If you have a Protective Order against your abuser, or if your abuser has been convicted of a felony or domestic violence misdemeanor, then Federal law states that it is illegal for your abuser to buy, own or have a gun in their possession.*
In addition, New Hampshire state law says that a person cannot have a gun if s/he:
- Has been convicted of a felony for a crime of violence
- Has a victim protection order against him/her (from any state);
- Has been convicted of a drug-related crime; or
- Has been convicted of three or more felonies (any type of felony) **
Note: There are certain requirements that your PO order must meet for it to qualify under Federal law. See the next question to read more about what those requirements are.
* 18 USC Sec. 922(g)
** RSA§159:3, 3-a