Firearms Offences
Firearms Offences
Firearms offences are taken very seriously by the courts and can result in substantial custodial sentences, including a life sentence for the gravest offences. If you have been accused of a firearm-related crime, you should speak to an expert firearms solicitor straightaway.
Seeking early legal representation is crucial, both to protect your rights and to ensure that as much evidence as possible is gathered in support of your position.
At Parnell and Peel, our firearms solicitors have the experience to put together a robust defence on your behalf. We will also look at the handling of your case. If there have been legal or technical errors made by the police or prosecuting authorities, we will ask the courts to dismiss any charges against you.
We have an outstanding track record in providing the best possible defence for our clients, including in complex and serious cases.
To speak to one of our firearms offences solicitors today, please call us on 033 00532252 or make a Free Online Enquiry for immediate assistance. All enquiries are completely confidential.
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Section 5 Firearms Act 1968 – Prohibited Weapons
Under Section 5 of the Firearms Act 1968, a person commits an offence if, without authority, they have in their possession, or they purchase or acquire weapons, including automatic weapons, machine guns, self-loading rifles, and short-barrelled weapons. A breach of Section 5 is extremely serious and can result in a lengthy prison term for anyone convicted.
It is also an offence, under the Firearms (Amendment) Act 1997 to own a handgun, with some exceptions, such as certain antique weapons and air pistols.
Firearms Sentencing Guidelines
There are no set sentencing guidelines for offences dealt with in the Crown Court, meaning judges will pass sentence in accordance with previous decisions made by the Appeal Court.
The sentence for possession, purchase or acquisition of a prohibited weapon or prohibited ammunition is a maximum of ten years in prison.
For carrying a loaded firearm in a public place, the maximum sentence is seven years.
Possession of a firearm or imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence has a maximum sentence of ten years.
When someone is convicted of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, or using a firearm or imitation firearm to resist arrest or carry out certain violent offences, or manufacturing or selling a prohibited weapon, they could face life imprisonment.
Defences To Firearms Offences
Firearms legislation is complex, and we will look at the details of your case and establish whether, in fact, an offence has been committed. This includes checking the sort of weapon you are alleged to have, whether it is prohibited, and whether you have a licence or permit.
We will also examine whether your case has been handled correctly, and whether the police or prosecutors have made any errors which could allow us to ask the courts to drop the charges against you.
If your case goes ahead, we will advise you of the strengths and weaknesses of your position and whether you have a valid defence. Potential defences to firearms offences include:
- You were unaware of the firearm
- You have the necessary paperwork authorising you to have the weapon
- The weapon does not belong to you
- You were under duress and forced to have the firearm
- You did not have the necessary intention to harm or commit an offence that is necessary for certain firearms offences
Contact Our Firearms Offences Solicitors
If you are facing allegations or legal charges in respect of firearms, contact our firearms offences solicitors today. We have the experience to give you the best possible defence, should the case against you proceed, and we will ensure you have the support and advice you need throughout.
Call us now on 033 00532252 or make a Free Online Enquiry for immediate assistance. All enquiries are completely confidential.
“From the first call with Abdul, I felt supported—he explained everything clearly and with real empathy. Mukesh and Rachel were also fantastic: friendly, professional, and genuinely understood my situation. I was incredibly stressed and needed expert advice. Parnell and Peel delivered exactly that. Thanks to their hard work, my case was dismissed before going to trial. Highly recommend!”
