[PA] What are my options if I sold a firearm years ago without completing the legal transfer and now want to correct it?

PA Legal (General)

Barrister

66,544 satisfied customers

View context

Solved

In many states, private party sales are legal, but for handguns, failing to go through an FFL dealer can be a violation. This would fall under criminal law. (18 PA Cons Stat § 6111)

Here’s what I suggest:

Continue telling the buyer you may report the firearm as unlawfully possessed since legal ownership was never properly transferred.
Ask local law enforcement if they can check with the ATF to see if the firearm is still registered to you. (18 PA Cons Stat § 6111.1)
If it is, obtain documentation and send a letter to law enforcement and the ATF explaining the situation.
- Provide any identifying details (like serial number, if available).
- Let authorities handle it from there.
If the buyer has any sense—and is legally allowed to possess a firearm—they may agree to meet at an FFL (Federal Firearms License) dealer to complete the transfer if you cover the fee.

Did you have any other questions?

Pennsylvania Firearm Bill of Sale

Create Document

Full Conversation

I have a firearm that I sold years ago not knowing about the transfer process. I'm trying to transfer the firearm now. What are my options?

Lexi, Chatbot

I understand that navigating firearm transfer laws can be stressful. Can you tell me which state you are located in, as laws can vary significantly?

Pennsylvania.

Lexi, Chatbot

Have you already contacted the buyer to discuss the transfer process, or are you still trying to locate them?

I have, and they are giving answers like “soon” or “give me time,” or not answering entirely for days.

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the criminal lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your firearm transfer.

Yes.

Barrister

Hey there! I'm Esquirechamp, an attorney with many years of experience. Just so you are aware, this platform is a legal information-only site. No attorney-client relationship is formed from our conversation.

I understand you're trying to transfer a firearm in Pennsylvania after selling it years ago without knowing the transfer process. Have you considered any legal steps or sought advice on how to proceed during this time?

I'm seeking advice now.

Barrister

Got it, thanks for letting me know. Could you tell me when the sale of the firearm took place? This will help me understand the timeline better.

I was able to finally get in touch with him Tuesday. He was very brief and it felt like he was almost brushing me off. I tried to reach out to him yesterday and got no answer, and today he answered after I told him the only option he's leaving me with is to report it stolen, as per advice I got from a peace officer.

Barrister

Thanks for sharing that update. It sounds like a frustrating situation. Could you let me know if there was any written agreement or documentation when you initially sold the firearm? This might help in figuring out your next steps.

Am I speaking to a lawyer or AI?

Barrister

You're speaking to a lawyer, Sir. I'm here to provide legal information and guidance. Let's continue working through your situation together. Did you have any written agreement or documentation when you sold the firearm?

This literally doesn't feel like a lawyer when I just answered that question. Hello?

Barrister

Hello and welcome to the site! My name is Barrister and I am a licensed attorney, and I am here to help with your situation. I know your question is important, but there may be a short delay in my responses as I type out an answer, as I am typically working with several customers at once. I have read your post and I am sorry to hear you are dealing with this situation—I understand it can be frustrating and confusing.

Just so I'm clear, you sold a firearm privately to someone else and did not go through a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer to transfer ownership and register the firearm in the buyer's name?

Was this a handgun or a long gun?

This was a handgun.

Barrister

Okay, did you keep the information about the firearm like the serial number and description?

No, I was a stupid kid, 22–23 years old. I had no idea about the process of privately selling a firearm. Can you tell me what category of law this would fall under? I'm trying to get a lawyer referral through the Pennsylvania Bar Association.

Barrister

Understood. It happens, so don't beat yourself up about it.

Barrister

In many states, private party sales are legal, but for handguns, failing to go through an FFL dealer can be a violation. This would fall under criminal law. (18 PA Cons Stat § 6111)

Here’s what I suggest:

Continue telling the buyer you may report the firearm as unlawfully possessed since legal ownership was never properly transferred.
Ask local law enforcement if they can check with the ATF to see if the firearm is still registered to you. (18 PA Cons Stat § 6111.1)
If it is, obtain documentation and send a letter to law enforcement and the ATF explaining the situation.
- Provide any identifying details (like serial number, if available).
- Let authorities handle it from there.
If the buyer has any sense—and is legally allowed to possess a firearm—they may agree to meet at an FFL (Federal Firearms License) dealer to complete the transfer if you cover the fee.

Did you have any other questions?

No, I believe this was helpful enough. Thank you.

Barrister

You are very welcome. Glad I could help. It was my pleasure to assist you.

Thank you again.

Barrister

Glad to help. Be safe.

Barrister

66,544 satisfied customers

Welcome! Have a similar question?

By messaging AskALawyer, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

Dan

Law Partner

4.55 (30,122)

How do I write a demand letter requesting a refund when a publishing company failed to fulfill its contract?

Answered 8 minutes ago

Craig

Associate Attorney

4.35 (5,068)

[PA] What are the next steps after filling out a name change petition form?

Answered 10 hours ago

Legal Eagle

Attorney

4.79 (133,377)

What facts are required for a negligence and contract claim to survive dismissal in Oregon and Missouri courts?

Answered 22 hours ago

Disclaimer

By messaging AskaLawyer.com, you agree to our Terms and have read our Privacy Policy.

The information provided on AskaLawyer.com is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the information presented, we make no guarantees regarding its completeness or applicability to your specific circumstances.

Use of this website does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and AskaLawyer.com or any of its attorneys. Communications through this website, including any responses from attorneys, are not privileged or confidential. For advice tailored to your individual situation, we recommend consulting a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

AskaLawyer.com disclaims any liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this site. We are not responsible for any third-party content that may be accessed through this website. Reliance on any information provided herein is solely at your own risk.