Convicted Felon Rights in Kentucky

Kentucky governors may pardon felons to restore their civil rights.

Felons in Kentucky lose certain rights of citizenship because of their criminal convictions. Kentucky felons lose their rights to vote, serve on juries and possess firearms. In some circumstances, felons may regain these rights.

Voting

Section 145 of the Kentucky Constitution prevents convicted felons from voting. The Section applies to those convicted by any court of competent jurisdiction, not only to those convicted in Kentucky courts. The governor may pardon any such felon and restore the felon's voting rights.

Firearms

Kentucky Revised Statute Section 527.040 bans any convicted felon from possessing firearms unless the felon has been pardoned by the governor or the President of the United States. A felon in possession of a firearm may face Class D felony charges, carrying a possible prison term of one to five years. A felon possessing a handgun may face Class C felony charges and a prison term of five to 10 years.

Jury Service

According to the Kentucky Court of Justice, convicted felons may not serve on juries. Felons who have been pardoned or otherwise have regained their civil rights may serve on juries. However, pardoned felons face the same requirements as other potential jurors.

References

• Legislative Research Commission: Kentucky Constitution Section 145
• Legislative Research Commission: KRS 527.040 Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon -- Exceptions
• Commonwealth of Kentucky Court of Justice: You the Jury - Juror Handbook