Firearms Offences
If you do not have a valid firearms licence it is an offence to carry, purchase, or acquire a firearm.
Therefore, it is vital that if you are charged with a firearms offence, you have an experienced, talented, well-connected Firearms Solicitor on your side.
We are that law firm. And as one of the most highly recommended Crime Solicitors in Coventry and across Warwickshire and the Midlands, you can be confident that we will look after you and your family during this stressful time.
Based in Coventry, we are a diverse, multi-lingual law firm that uses best-in-class technology to provide clients with a streamlined, modern, and highly effective criminal defence. Furthermore, years of experience in criminal law means we have created relationships with some of the UK’s best Barristers and King’s Counsel. Our clients also benefit from our ability to instruct the country’s most respected expert witnesses who can provide the Court with the facts required to support a not guilty plea or mitigate the sentence handed down by a Judge.
Advising and representing people accused of committing a criminal offence
We are highly recommended as an expert criminal defence law firm for people accused of committing a crime. Our Coventry and Midland based solicitors provide 24/7 police station representation. Therefore, will be at your side, protecting your interests from the start. Because we understand the correct procedure the police must follow when making an arrest, we will carefully examine the circumstances surrounding you being detained and get the charges dropped if proper processes were not complied with.
Our criminal law team has in-depth experience in defending serious criminal charges, including firearms offences. We work with the country’s top expert witnesses and focus on providing you with advice and representation you can trust. We know that your reputation, your freedom, and your family’s financial security is at stake – therefore, we never give up until every appeal has been exhausted.
Below are several common questions clients ask us concerning firearms offences.
What are the different types of firearms offences?
There is a wide range of firearms offences from those involving air weapons and firearms certificates to more serious matters relating to possession of certain weapons. The most serious firearms offences are almost always dealt with in the Crown Court and can attract lengthy custodial sentences.
What is classed as a ‘firearm’?
The statutory definition of “firearm” is:
- a lethal barrelled weapon – meaning a barrelled weapon of any description from which a shot, bullet, or other missile, with kinetic energy of more than one joule at the muzzle of the weapon, can be discharged,
- a prohibited weapon,
- a relevant component part in relation to a lethal barrelled weapon or a prohibited weapon, which can be used as a part of a lethal barrelled weapon or prohibited weapon; or
- an accessory to a lethal barrelled weapon or a prohibited weapon where the accessory is designed or adapted to diminish the noise or flash caused by firing the weapon.
An air weapon is defined as an air rifle, air gun or air pistol and which is not of a type declared by rules made by the Secretary of State to be especially dangerous.
Can I sell or transfer a firearm without a licence?
Unless you are registered as a firearms dealer it is an offence to manufacture, sell, transfer, repair, test or proof test any firearm or ammunition. Antique firearms which are sold, transferred, purchased, acquired, or possessed as curiosities or ornaments are exempt from the provisions of firearms legislation. If you are dealing or buying an antique firearm, it is important to check that it fits the definition of ‘antique’ to ensure it does not fall under firearms legislation. Remember the old adage – ignorance of the law is no excuse.
What is possession of a firearm with criminal intent?
It is against the law to possess a firearm (with or without a licence) or an imitation firearm to be used for the intent to endanger life or enable another person to endanger life. It does not matter whether an injury or death has actually occurred.
The Prosecution must prove that you intended to endanger life, for example, you take a loaded firearm to the house of a person you have threatened with harm in the past. As your Criminal Defence Solicitor, we will gather and present evidence to show the Judge and Jury that you did not intend to endanger life.
What are the sentences for firearms offences?
The sentence for conviction of firearms defences is wide-ranging. For less severe offences, you may receive a sentence of six months imprisonment and/or a fine. The gravest offences carry a sentence of life imprisonment.
Do not underestimate the seriousness of firearms offences – sentences of five to ten years in custody are common. If you have been charged with a firearms offence, contact us immediately.
Why choose us?
Regardless of the charges against you, you are entitled to a criminal defence. We do not judge our clients; our only objective is to defend you against the Prosecution’s allegations. You can be confident that by instructing us to defend you, your chances of acquittal or a reduced sentence are greatly improved. The most important factor is to contact us as soon as you become aware of the criminal allegations.
People choose and recommend us not just in Coventry, Rugby and Leamington, but across the Midlands and the whole of the UK.
To receive expert advice and representation regarding firearms offences, please contact us using the form below.