There are very strict gun laws in Maryland. You cannot own or possess a firearm if you have been convicted of a felony or any misdemeanor that carries more than two years in jail. In fact, you cannot own or possess a firearm if you receive probation before judgment with the sole exception of a probation before judgment for a second degree assault charge that is not domestic violence. This means that if you receive probation before judgment for second degree assault that is related to domestic violence, you are prohibited from buying a firearm.

In addition, you cannot own or possess a firearm if you are a fugitive from justice, habitual drunkard, addicted to a controlled dangerous substance or habitual user, suffer from certain mental disorders, have been found incompetent to stand trial or not criminally responsible, have been voluntarily admitted to a mental institution for 30 consecutive days, or are under the protection of a guardian.

You cannot own or possess a gun if there is a protective order against you. The police will confiscate your guns at the time that you are served with a Protective Order.

There are numerous other prohibitions. It is illegal to apply to purchase a firearm while knowing that you are not eligible. If you have questions about your eligibility, speak with a lawyer.