Can a convicted felon visit his children in their home where there is a licensed registered gun.?

Answer 1

That is an interesting issue. I would look specifically to the law in your state regarding possession of a firearm by a felon. In Texas, the rule is that a felon cannot have possession (or control) of a firearm. I would assume if he is visiting his children, he would not necessarily be in possession of everything that is in the house, so unless he was actually handling the weapon he would probably be okay. I'm sure, however, that gun laws in Texas are more lenient than in many other states, so you might check with the penal code in the state you are in.

Added: The legal status of the firearm, or the matter of to whom it may actually belong is immaterial. You need not actually be handling it or carrying it on your person to be charged with 'possession of a firearm.' "Possession refers to the exercise of dominion over property, or holding or having property in one's power. It is the right under which a person can exercise control over something. . . ." [see below link]

Being in close enough proximity to it, and near enough to "exercise control" over it is sufficient to make the charge.

If it were me looking at the possibillity of up to 15 years in federal prison, I'd avoid the situation, especially if this was a child visitation situation mandated by the court. The possibility of someone who is unfriendly to you, 'putting you in the bag' is FAR too great to risk.