Firearms (including prohibited weapons)
The law which governs firearms is complex. We have strong experience in this field, and will be able to advise you about all aspects of ownership and use.
A firearm is "a lethal barrelled weapon of any description from which any shot, bullet or other missile can be discharged"
The Firearms Act 1968 creates offences of:
- Possession of a firearm/specially dangerous air weapon and certain ammunition without a certificate
(This is an ‘absolute offence’ which means that the prosecution only has to show that the defendant knew he has something in his possession. It is irrelevant what he knew or thought it was)
- Possession of a "shotgun" without a certificate
- Possession of a “prohibited weapon”. These include machine guns, burst fire weapons, short barrelled rifles, handguns, revolvers, self-loading shotguns. Also tasers and CS gas canisters.
These are specifically defined terms within the Act. There are also specific rules which relate to "Imitation Firearms", which can be treated as firearms for the purposes of the law. A weapon which qualifies as an antique, or deactivated weapon is exempt from Firearms legislation.
All offences of possession are subject to certain exemptions which we can advise you about.
It is an offence under Firearms Act 1968 to possess, purchase, acquire, manufacture, sell or transfer certain ‘prohibited weapons’. Those offences are subject to a mandatory minimum sentence. This is five years imprisonment for an offender aged 21 and over and five years detention in a young offenders institute for those aged 18, 19 and 20 at conviction. There is a lesser mandatory sentence of 3 years for those aged 16 and 17.
The Firearms Act 1968 also creates offences relating to the use of firearms:
- Possession of a firearm or ammunition with intent to endanger life
- Possession of a firearm or imitation with intent to cause fear of violence
- Using a firearm or imitation to resist or prevent lawful arrest of himself - or another
- Possessing a firearm or imitation whilst committing certain offences
- Carrying a firearm or imitation with intent to commit an indictable offence or to resist arrest or prevent the arrest of another
- Carrying a loaded shot gun, air weapon, (whether loaded or not), any other firearm (whether loaded or not) together with ammunition suitable for use in that firearm or an imitation firearm in a public place without lawful authority or reasonable excuse
- Possession of an air weapon or an imitation firearm in a public place
- Entering a building or part of a building as a trespasser without reasonable excuse whilst having with him a firearm or imitation
- Possession of a firearm by persons previously convicted of crime
If you are facing an allegation under Firearms legislation, or require information about your entitlement to own or use weapons, contact us for comprehensive advice about this wide ranging area of law. It is often necessary for us to instruct an expert in cases where the weapon capability or classification is in dispute. Firearms offences carry lengthy custodial sentences and seeking legal advice at the earliest opportunity is crucial.
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We realise it can be daunting to challenge a police officer where you do not agree with what they say, but we have extensive experience of dealing with disputed police evidence, and will ensure you have the opportunity to get your side of the story across.
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The law which governs firearms is complex. We have strong experience in this field, and will be able to advise you about all aspects of ownership and use.
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Our firm has dealt with a number of these very serious matters over the years and we believe that our lawyers have the judgement and expertise to achieve the best outcome for our clients.
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These offences against the administration of justice are viewed as serious by the Courts and it is vital that you have access to our advice on these matters.
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Removal from the Sex Offenders Register is possible, even in cases where the notification period is said to be indefinite. There are now more applications to be removed from the Register than before because of a change in police policy. Call us free to discuss.
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This area of law can be particularly complex, and result in serious consequences for drivers. We are able to provide comprehensive advice and representation in relation to all road traffic and motoring offences
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