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Firearms Offence Lawyers in Melbourne - Weapon Offences & Charges
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Experienced firearms offence lawyers
Cases relating to firearms or weapons can incur harsh penalties, including the loss of your firearms license. If you have been charged by the Victoria police with firearms offences and gun charges in Melbourne, you will want to consult with an experienced criminal lawyer immediately.
Our criminal law specialists have dealt with countless firearms cases and provided excellent legal advice and representation. We also assist Melbourne clients with other weapons offences outlined under the Control of Weapons Act 1990.
Need help with your firearm offences? Call 03 8590 8370 for your free consultation with our Melbourne criminal law experts now.
What are firearms offences?
According to the Firearms Act 1996, it is illegal for anyone in Victoria to possess a firearm if:
- They do not have a firearms licence (or an appropriate license)
- They do not use the firearm in the manner specified by their licence
- They are a prohibited person (a respondent to an Intervention Order or someone who has previously lost their license)
Some examples of firearm offences include:
- Possessing a firearm without a proper licence
Possessing unregistered firearms - Possessing cartridge ammunition
Carrying or using a firearm in a prohibited place - Using a firearm in a dangerous manner
- Storing a firearm or ammunition in an insecure manner
- Possessing a firearm as a prohibited person
- Possessing a traffickable quantity of unregistered firearms
What is the maximum penalty for a firearm offence?
The Court will treat firearms offences very seriously, especially if you are a repeat offender. If you are found guilty, there may be serious repercussions that can impact employment, relationships and your future as a whole.
Maximum penalties for firearms charges include:
- 2 years imprisonment for possessing or using a longarm firearm if you are a non-prohibited person
- 10 years imprisonment for possessing or using a longarm firearm if you are a prohibited person
Typically, however, your sentence will include one or more of the following:
- Fine
- Imprisonment
- Community Correction
- Order
- Diversion
- Good Behaviour Bond (Adjourned Undertaking)
If you plead guilty, you may receive a criminal conviction and be found to be a prohibited person, meaning that your licence will be forfeit and you will have to surrender all your guns. This will depend on the severity of the charges and whether or not the weapon was used to commit another crime.
Our criminal lawyers will fight for the best possible outcome and ensure you get the quality advice and representation you deserve.
Do I have a criminal defence?
While firearms offences are incredibly serious, you may have a defence that will result in a not guilty finding or a lighter sentence. We'll explore:
- The circumstances around the offence and your intent
- The category of firearm and how many weapons were involved
- Your familiarity with relevant legislation
- Whether you were in possession of a firearm or other prohibited weapons
- Whether the prosecution has enough evidence to prove guilt
There are a number of potentially aggravating features when it comes to firearms possession cases and other firearm offences, which is why you'll want to seek legal advice from experienced criminal lawyers like us. We'll make sure to explore all your legal options with you to ensure you are aware of the avenues available to you.
Contact us
Want to get the best outcome for your firearms/weapons offence? Book your free consultation with our criminal lawyers in Melbourne now! You can call 03 8590 8370 or use our contact form here.