ESTATE PLANNING LAW

GUN TRUSTS

GETTING A TITLE II FIREARM WITHOUT A GUN TRUST IS A COMPLEX PROCESS

Gun trusts, also known as firearms trusts, NFA trusts, Class 3 trusts, or firearms revocable trusts, are an excellent way to legally purchase and own a Title II firearm sold by Class 3 dealers, as well as regular firearms.

A Class 3 Dealer sells Title II firearms, which are defined to include a machine gun, silencer (suppressor), short-barreled shotgun or rifle, destructive device, and an AOW (any other weapon.) A gun trust can help you overcome situations where the chief law enforcement officer in your area is reluctant or unwilling to sign an ATF Form 4 or Form 1.

DO YOU NEED A GUN TRUST?

There are many other benefits to using a gun trust to purchase your firearms including protecting others, like a spouse, child or friend, from issues of constructive possession or other violations of Federal law.

A gun trust can allow other people to be authorized users of your Title II firearms without violation of the National Firearms Act. A gun trust is a very special type of trust that has been created to deal with the unique issues of firearms purchases, ownership, transfer, possession, and use of firearms.

A well-planned, drafted, and administered gun trust accomplishes other purposes as well and is needed in a variety of contexts.

People may collect guns for self-defense, target shooting, or hunting. Guns can be investments or heirlooms.

Many gun owners want their guns to be used responsibly and to be passed on to heirs or beneficiaries who will appreciate them.

Legacy planning for firearms is an issue that impacts millions of Americans and crosses all boundaries of race, political beliefs, gender, and profession.

Certain firearms and accessories are restricted by federal, state, and local laws, and there are regulations and issues surrounding the passing down of guns to one’s heirs.

Photo of a hunting rifle

Trust planning is an ideal solution for gun owners to plan for their families. In addition to the preparation of the proper estate planning documents, attorneys who represent gun-owner clients often need technical education as it relates to the National Firearms Act and BATF.

Given the significant concerns that can be raised by the ownership and transfer of firearms, careful and thorough planning can facilitate the process of including your firearms in a plan that will assure, preserve and advance your better legacy. Please contact our office for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Your better legacy depends upon the accuracy and completeness of your estate plan

Contact us today to talk to a Florida Bar board certified specialist who has the expertise to help you plan your estate.