Firearm Offences

Twelve Tabulae Criminal Defence Solicitors: Expert Legal Representation and Defence

Firearm offences encompass various illegal activities related to the use, possession, and acquisition of firearms and ammunition. These offences are heavily regulated to maintain public safety and order.

Given the complexity and seriousness of these offences, it is crucial to have expert legal representation. Twelve Tabulae criminal defence solicitors offer invaluable assistance in navigating firearm offences, ensuring that clients receive the best possible guidance and representation.

This article covers the various aspects of firearm offences, highlighting key terms and providing guidance on understanding the legal landscape.

What are the three types of firearms?

Firearms come in various forms, with pistols, rifles, and shotguns being the primary categories. Additionally, there are other types such as revolvers and semi-automatic firearms. For a comprehensive list and detailed guidance, visit the YouGov website or the CPS website. Firearms are also categorised based on specific characteristics:

• Antique Firearms: These are firearms manufactured before a certain date and are often exempt from many regulatory controls due to their historical value and lower likelihood of being used in crime.
• Air Weapons: This category includes air rifles and air pistols that utilise compressed air to fire pellets. While they are generally subject to fewer regulations, they can still pose significant risks and are governed by specific laws.
• Barrelled Weapons: This category encompasses modern firearms such as rifles, shotguns, and handguns designed to fire live ammunition. These weapons are heavily regulated due to their potential for serious harm.
• Imitation Firearms: These include realistic imitation firearms that resemble real guns but are non-functional. Despite their lack of functionality, the use of imitation firearms in criminal activities can lead to severe penalties.

What Are Firearm Offences?

Firearm offences refer to violations of laws and regulations governing the use, possession, acquisition, and distribution of firearms and ammunition. These laws are designed to prevent crime, ensure public safety, and regulate the types of weapons individuals can own. Firearm offences can range from illegal possession to the criminal use of firearms in violent crimes.

If you or someone you know has been arrested or charged with firearm-related offences, it is natural to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and uncertain about the legal consequences that lie ahead. Here are some common firearm offences:

• Illegal acquisition and possession of a firearm: This occurs when someone has a gun, ammunition, or a prohibited weapon without the necessary certification.
• Possession of an imitation firearm: This charge applies if you have an object that looks like a gun.
• Criminal use of a firearm: This includes carrying a gun to threaten life with criminal intent, instil fear, resist arrest, or help someone avoid capture.
• Illegal conversion of weapons: Examples include shortening a shotgun barrel beyond the legal limit or converting an item into a weapon.
• Illegal importation of firearms: This involves receiving goods that have been unlawfully removed from a warehouse, have unpaid duties, or are restricted or prohibited items.
• Possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear or violence: Conviction for this offence does not require actual harm, only the intention to cause fear.

Other items, such as weapon components or devices that can silence a gun, can also result in firearm-related charges if found in your possession.

It is crucial to seek the advice of an experienced solicitor, as their guidance may help reduce a prison sentence or potentially avoid one altogether.

Legal Framework and Regulations

The Firearms Act is a crucial piece of legislation that outlines the legal requirements for the possession, acquisition, and use of firearms and ammunition. It defines key terms such as barrelled weapon, imitation firearm, and realistic imitation firearms. The Act also sets out offences related to firearms and provides guidance on sentencing offenders.

Possession of Firearms Sentencing and Penalties

Firearm offences are taken very seriously, though they don’t always lead to a prison sentence. By taking appropriate actions, you may even have your case dismissed before it reaches court.

Recent updates to sentencing guidelines provide courts with a framework for determining appropriate penalties for firearm offences. These guidelines consider factors such as the type of weapon, the intent behind its possession or use, and any previous criminal history.

Certain firearm offences carry mandatory minimum terms, reflecting the severity of these crimes. For example, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life can result in a lengthy prison sentence.

The sentence you receive for a firearm offence depends on the severity of the crime. Generally, the minimum prison sentence is five years for adults and three years for 16 or 17-year-olds.

A guilty plea can influence sentencing outcomes, often resulting in reduced sentences for offenders who admit their guilt and cooperate with authorities. Typically, the maximum prison sentence is ten years, but this can increase to life imprisonment if other crimes are involved.

Here are some specific examples of sentences for firearm offences:

• Trading firearms without being a registered dealer can result in a sentence ranging from six months to five years.
• Testing or repairing a firearm without proper certification can also lead to a sentence of six months to five years.
• Modifying a firearm, such as shortening a shotgun barrel, can result in a sentence of six months to seven years and possibly a fine.

If you have been charged with a firearm offence but possess an antique or ornamental gun made before 1939, you might have been falsely accused. In such cases, it’s crucial to seek advice from a skilled and experienced criminal solicitor as soon as possible.

Acting quickly can help you work with your solicitor to clear your name and get the case dismissed.

Prosecution and Legal Representation

Prosecution of firearm offences involves presenting evidence in court to prove the accused’s guilt. Successful prosecution often requires demonstrating the illegal possession, acquisition, or use of a firearm beyond a reasonable doubt. Criminal lawyers and solicitors specialising in firearm cases can provide essential legal representation for individuals accused of firearm offences.

Early legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case by providing immediate support and expert advice during critical moments. We are here to offer guidance, court representation, and help navigate the complex legal landscape of possession of firearms.

We advise that you contact us as soon as possible, ideally at the stage of the police interview, to ensure that you receive proper guidance and are not instigated with a criminal offence.

How we can help with firearm offences

Firearm offences are serious charges that require expert legal representation to navigate successfully. Stephen Vullo KC at Twelve Tabulae stands out as a premier choice for individuals facing such charges, offering comprehensive legal services that include case evaluation, court representation, and guidance on legal compliance.

Our deep understanding of firearms laws and commitment to client welfare ensures the best possible outcomes, making us an invaluable ally in the face of firearm offence charges.
By providing robust defence strategies, staying abreast of new sentencing guidelines, and offering unwavering support, Twelve Tabulae helps clients navigate the complexities of firearm offences with confidence.

Whatever the alleged firearm offence, our expertise ensures that our clients receive the representation they need. Contact us today to ensure the best possible defence and expert legal representation.

Stephen Vullo KC

King’s Counsel // Criminal Barrister // Head of Criminal Defence and Individual Conflict