A handgun qualification license (HQL) is required by any Maryland citizen who wishes to purchase, rent, or receive a handgun. This is not the same as a wear-and-carry permit, which allows a Maryland citizen to transport or conceal carry their handgun on their person.
Getting an HQL in Maryland can be a difficult process for citizens. Maryland is known for being one of the strictest states when it comes to purchasing, carrying, and transporting handguns. Without a firearm attorney, many applicants are left with denied permits and no clarifying reason as to why or what to do next.
If you’ve been denied your HQL in Maryland, Saller Law can help. Here is what to do next and how to appeal your denied application.
Disclaimer: articles on sallerlaw.com are not intended as legal advice and should not be taken as such, please consult an attorney for advice about your individual situation.
Why You Were Denied Your HQL
A denied HQL in Maryland may be anything from an error in submitting your application to an old arrest on your record. It is important to be clear, honest, and timely when filling out your application. This is always the first place to check for a reason why your carry application may have been denied – deadlines and accuracy.
If all of your documents were submitted and completed on time, it may be an old arrest or other charge on your record that is the reason for your denied HQL application. Some arrests, without charges, from over a decade ago may be the reason for a denied handgun license in Maryland and may be holding up your application.
Maryland firearm lawyers can help review your application, examine old arrests, visit expungement history, and more to clarify and appeal why your application was denied.
Why Your HQL Application May Have Been Denied
- Requested documentation and verification, including Livescan fingerprints, was not submitted within the proper timeframe
- Verified proof of required firearm safety training was not received
- Criminal history
- Felony convictions
- Violent crimes
- Expunged records
- History of addiction to controlled dangerous substances
- Registered medical cannabis patient and/or user
- DUI or drunk history
- Peace order history
- Disqualifying medical history
How To Appeal Your Denied HQL in Maryland
1. Record the Date of Your Application
You will need this for data tracking and reference to ensure you do not miss any deadlines and stay within your window of appeal. Do not wait long after receiving your denial – there is a limited window to request an appeal to your application.
2. Contact a Firearm Defense Lawyer in Maryland
Once your denial notice is received, you want to contact a firearm defense lawyer in Maryland – within 3 – 5 days is recommended so you can quickly build your case and file for an appeal within the allowed window of time. An experienced firearm attorney will help you build your case and cover all details needed, and stay within your allotted timeframe.
3. Request an Official Appeal
An official appeal will allow you to clarify any reason for the denial with the handgun qualification unit. The appeal is how you and your lawyer will work to argue on your behalf to grant you your handgun license if you qualify under Maryland law.
4. Contact the Handgun Qualification Unit for Clarification on Your Denial
Before your appeal, you may need to contact the handgun qualification unit for clarification on why your application was denied. Your lawyer will advise on how and whom to contact to obtain this information if there is no obvious reason for your denial in your application or in your history.
5. Work with Your Firearm Attorney
Together, we will build your case, clearly outline your request, and respond to any issues with facts and reason. The objective is to showcase how your request fits all laws and requirements and cannot be legally denied. Your lawyer will ask questions, collect information, and present a solid argument on your behalf.
Why Work with Saller Law Gun Lawyers
Andrew Saller is dedicated to upholding the rights of the Second Amendment under the Constitution for Maryland citizens. It is your right to bear arms and he is here to represent you when you are facing challenges, denials, or other roadblocks.
In addition to being a top-rated criminal lawyer in Baltimore, Andrew Saller is a lifelong member of the NRA, co-host of the Urban Defense podcast, and executive member of Maryland Shall Issue. What you need is an informed, experienced lawyer, and Andrew Saller and the team at Saller, Ernstberger, & McElroy can help.
Call Now for Your Consult
Located in Baltimore, MD, we can consult on your Maryland gun law case. Call us today if you have been denied your HQL in Maryland to figure out what your next best steps are. Having an experienced legal team review your application and history can be exactly what you need to fight for your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was my Handgun Qualification License (HQL) denied in Maryland?
Your HQL may have been denied due to incorrect or late application submissions, old arrests (even without charges), criminal history, medical cannabis use, history of addiction, expunged records, or disqualifying medical or legal issues. A firearm attorney can help identify the specific reason.
How soon should I contact a lawyer after my HQL is denied?
You should contact a Maryland firearm defense lawyer within 3 to 5 days of receiving your denial to ensure you file an appeal within the required timeframe.
What is required to file an appeal for a denied HQL in Maryland?
You’ll need the date of your original application, a lawyer to help build your case, and a formal appeal request to the Handgun Qualification Unit. Your attorney may also contact the unit to clarify the reason for your denial.
Can an old arrest with no conviction cause my HQL to be denied?
Yes, even old arrests with no charges or convictions—sometimes over a decade old—can still result in a denied HQL in Maryland. A firearms attorney can help argue on your behalf in the case of dropped charges, expunged history, and more.
How can Saller Law help with a denied HQL?
Saller Law will review your application and history, clarify the reason for denial, assist with official appeal filings, and build a strong case to argue that you meet all legal requirements under Maryland law.
