PRACTICE AREA
Trusted Firearms Offence Lawyers in Melbourne
Tough times call for Criminal Lawyer Melbourne
With a history of successful legal representation in Melbourne, you can trust us to guide you on your criminal matters. We will listen to and support your side of the story.
Areas of Practice
Expert Legal Assistance for Firearm Offences
Facing firearm offence charges in Melbourne can be overwhelming, with significant consequences for your personal and professional life. Navigating the complexities of Victoria’s legal system without expert guidance is challenging. Haitch Legal’s dedicated team of firearm offence lawyers Melbourne is committed to providing exceptional legal representation to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
With extensive experience in the Magistrates’ Court, County Court, and Supreme Court, we offer tailored solutions to meet your unique needs.
For immediate assistance, contact us at 03 8590 8370 for a free, confidential consultation.
Why You Need Firearm Offence Lawyers Melbourne
Firearm offences in Victoria are governed by the Firearms Act 1996 and carry severe penalties, including hefty fines, imprisonment and the loss of your firearms licence. Whether you’re facing charges for unlawful possession, improper storage, or serious firearm-related crimes, the stakes are high. A conviction can impact employment, travel and personal relationships.
Our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne understand the gravity of these charges and provide strategic legal defence to protect your rights and minimise penalties.
At Haitch Legal, we combine in-depth knowledge of Victorian firearm laws with a client-centric approach. Our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne are skilled in analysing evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and representing clients in court, ensuring you receive robust support at every stage of the legal process.
Comprehensive Legal Services for Firearm Offences
Our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne specialise in defending clients against a wide range of firearm-related charges, including:
- Unlawful Possession of Firearms: Defending clients accused of possessing a firearm without a valid licence under section 7 of the Firearms Act 1996, which can result in up to 7 years’ imprisonment or fines exceeding $47,000.
- Improper Storage of Firearms: Representing individuals charged with failing to store firearms securely as required by section 121 of the Firearms Act 1996, facing fines up to $18,000 or 12 months’ imprisonment.
- Use of Firearms in Commission of a Crime: Handling serious cases involving firearm use during criminal acts, often prosecuted under the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic), with penalties exceeding 7 years’ imprisonment.
- Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm: Assisting clients charged under section 5 of the Firearms Act 1996 for possessing firearms while prohibited, facing up to 7 years’ imprisonment.
- Trafficking or Unlawful Sale of Firearms: Defending complex charges under section 101A of the Firearms Act 1996, which can carry up to 14 years’ imprisonment.
- Discharging a Firearm in a Public Place: Representing clients accused of reckless discharge under section 7B of the Firearms Act 1996, facing significant fines and imprisonment.
- Carrying a Firearm in a Prohibited Area: Defending charges for carrying firearms in restricted locations, such as schools, under section 7A of the Firearms Act 1996.
Our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne meticulously assess your case, challenge prosecution evidence, and explore defences, including procedural errors, lack of intent, or lawful justification.
Our Legal Process
When you engage Haitch Legal, our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne follow a structured approach to achieve the best outcome:
Initial Consultation: A free consultation to review your charges, evidence, and potential consequences, providing clear advice on your options.
Case Analysis: Detailed examination of police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Defence Strategy: Development of a tailored defence strategy, which may involve negotiating reduced charges, seeking diversion programs, or preparing for trial.
Court Representation: Confident advocacy in court by our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne, presenting compelling arguments to secure a favourable outcome.
Ongoing Support: Regular updates and practical advice to reduce stress and keep you informed throughout the process.
Client-Centric Approach
At Haitch Legal, we prioritise your needs. Facing firearm charges is stressful, and our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne are committed to making the legal process seamless. We offer:
- Personalised Legal Strategies: Solutions tailored to your case and circumstances.
- Transparent Communication: Clear, regular updates to ensure you understand your options.
- Compassionate Support: A responsive team that listens and advocates tirelessly for you.
- Convenient Representation: Advocacy at the Magistrates’ Court closest to your location, leveraging our familiarity with Victorian court procedures.
Understanding Firearm Offences and Penalties in Victoria
Firearm offences are treated seriously in Victoria due to public safety concerns, as outlined in the Firearms Act 1996. Penalties vary by offence:
- Unlawful Possession: Up to 7 years’ imprisonment or fines over $47,000.
- Improper Storage: Up to 12 months’ imprisonment or fines up to $18,000.
- Using a Firearm in a Crime: Penalties exceeding 7 years’ imprisonment, depending on the offence.
- Prohibited Person Possession: Up to 7 years’ imprisonment and significant fines.
- Firearm Trafficking: Up to 14 years’ imprisonment for large-scale offences.
Convictions may lead to firearms licence cancellation, a criminal record, and restrictions on future firearm ownership. Engaging firearm offence lawyers Melbourne is crucial to navigate these penalties and seek leniency.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Firearm Offence in Victoria?
Challenging a firearm offence requires expertise. Our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne can:
- Review Evidence: Scrutinise police procedures, search warrants, and evidence for legal errors, guided by the Victoria Police Firearms Licensing Information.
- Identify Defences: Explore lawful possession, lack of intent, or duress.
- Gather Evidence: Collect witness statements or expert reports to strengthen your case.
- Negotiate: Seek reduced charges or diversion programs for eligible cases.
- Court Advocacy: Present a robust defence to contest charges or mitigate penalties.
Top Frequently Asked Questions About Firearm Offences
Avoid making statements to police without legal advice, as they may be used against you. Contact our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne at 03 8590 8370 for a free consultation. We will review the charge, evidence, and circumstances, explaining your rights under the Firearms Act 1996. Early intervention allows us to explore options like contesting the charge, negotiating reduced penalties, or applying for a diversion program to avoid a criminal record.
Yes, our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne can advocate to protect your firearms licence, especially if it’s critical for employment (e.g., security or rural work) or recreational purposes. We may argue for alternative penalties, such as fines or community orders, or present mitigating factors to prevent cancellation, as outlined in Victoria Police Firearms Licensing Guidelines. Success depends on the offence’s severity and your history, but we maximise your chances.
Costs vary based on case complexity, court level, and representation required. Haitch Legal offers competitive rates and transparent billing. During your free consultation, we provide a detailed cost estimate, covering preparation, court appearances, and additional services. For general guidance on legal costs, visit the Law Institute of Victoria. We ensure cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
A conviction can lead to job loss, particularly in roles requiring security clearances or licences, and restrict international travel. Our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne aim to minimise these impacts by seeking non-conviction outcomes or reduced charges. We also advise on managing disclosure to employers and navigating criminal record checks, as explained in Victoria’s Spent Convictions Scheme.
Success depends on evidence, charge circumstances, and defence strength. Our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne analyse the prosecution’s case for weaknesses, such as unlawful searches or unreliable testimony, guided by Victoria Legal Aid’s Firearms Information. We pursue defences like lawful possession or lack of intent and negotiate for reduced penalties or diversion programs, significantly improving your outcome.
Contact Haitch Legal Today
Don’t face firearm offence charges alone. Our firearm offence lawyers Melbourne provide expert legal assistance and robust representation. Contact Haitch Legal at 03 8590 8370 or visit our website to schedule your free consultation. Protect your rights and secure a favourable outcome today.