Can a Wisconsin Domestic Abuse Injunction Revoke Your Concealed Carry (CCW) Permit?

The Immediate Impact on Your CCW Permit

Wisconsin is a 'shall-issue' state for Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permits, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Madison. However, the privilege to carry a concealed firearm is instantly revoked the moment domestic violence allegations enter the civil court system. If a petitioner files for a restraining order in the Kenosha County Circuit Court, Kenosha or the Eau Claire County Circuit Court, Eau Claire, your Second Amendment rights are paused.

Under Wis. Stat. § 175.60(14), the Wisconsin DOJ must suspend or revoke a CCW license if the licensee becomes ineligible under state or federal law to possess a firearm. Because a domestic abuse temporary restraining order (TRO) and final injunction legally prohibit firearm possession under Wis. Stat. § 813.12, your CCW permit becomes void. If you are facing a restraining order and are worried about losing your right to carry, you should use our directory to consult with a local defense attorney.

Automatic Suspension of CCW During the TRO Phase

Many people assume their CCW is safe until a judge makes a final ruling. This is incorrect. The moment a court commissioner signs a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) based solely on the petitioner's initial written statement, you become a restricted person. The court clerk immediately notifies the DOJ, and your CCW permit is suspended pending the final injunction hearing. If you are caught carrying a concealed weapon during this two-week TRO phase, you can be charged with a crime.

Out-of-State Reciprocity Issues

Wisconsin CCW permits enjoy reciprocity with many other states, allowing you to carry concealed while traveling. However, when the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Madison revokes your permit, that information is pushed to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This means if you are pulled over in a state like Michigan or Iowa, law enforcement will see that your Wisconsin permit is invalid, and you could be arrested for illegally carrying a concealed weapon in that state.

Steps to Recover Your Permit

If you win your injunction hearing and the judge dismisses the case, your right to possess firearms is restored. However, your CCW permit may not automatically turn back on. You must verify that the Dane County Circuit Court, Madison (or whichever court handled your case) officially sent the dismissal notice to the DOJ. If a final injunction was granted and lasted for up to four years, your CCW permit is permanently revoked for that period. Once the injunction expires, you cannot just start carrying again; you must completely reapply for a new CCW license with the state.

Reinstatement Costs and Fees

Getting your CCW rights back involves state fees and potentially legal assistance to clear your record.

How Long Does Reinstatement Take?

If your case is dismissed at the final injunction hearing, the DOJ usually processes the reinstatement within 5 to 10 business days after receiving the court order. If your permit was fully revoked due to a multi-year injunction, you must wait for the exact expiration date of the order. After applying for a new license via the DOJ portal, the state has up to 21 days under Wisconsin law to issue the new permit or deny your application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)