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Firearms legislation in England and Wales is known as being some of the most restrictive and complicated in the world. Gun control is on the top priorities of law enforcement agencies. Offences involving guns or other firearms includes:
Possession of almost all firearms requires a licence and the penalties for unlawful possession can be severe. In many cases mandatory minimum sentences apply.
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Some firearms may be lawfully possessed with a Firearm and Shotgun Certificate. These are issued by the police and may permit lawful possession of a firearm or shotgun, as well as ammunition. A person must apply to their local police force demonstrating that they meet the conditions for possession (demonstrating a sporting, collecting or work-based reason) and that they are not a risk to the public. These certificates may be revoked and the firearm seized if the police consider a person no longer fit to own a firearm or without a legitimate reason.
This area of law also covers possession of imitation firearms in a public place, and possession of items such as stun guns and incapacitant sprays, which many people may have not expected to be covered by firearms legislation.
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Hodge Jones and Allen advise and represent a broad range of client in this area of law, ranging from:
Seeking early advice in all cases can be key and will often be the difference between losing a certificate or, in the more serious cases, receiving a mandatory minimum sentence.
Serious firearm offences, having a gun of whilst committing other offences or supplying others with guns and ammunition are complex matters that require careful consideration from an experienced legal team.
Often these arrests arise in the context of other investigations such as murder or drugs offences. Solicitors at Hodge Jones & Allen make sure that the police or other bodies have conducted their investigations within the rules and that any police operation has been properly authorised. We are used to dealing with high profile and complex matters at trial, where guns and firearms play a prominent part. By scrutinising the police evidence carefully and standing up for your rights, we make sure that you receive a fair trial and the best result possible.
We instruct barristers with a specific expertise in firearms legislation and have strong professional relationships with renowned expert witnesses.
Hodge Jones & Allen have decades of expertise in this area of law and a high success rate in avoiding immediate prison sentences on behalf of our clients in such cases. We are able to provide advice and representation nationwide and quickly.
Successfully argued that exceptional circumstances applied to a conviction of possession of a firearm where the mandatory minimum sentence is five years custody. Defendant received two and half year’s custody.
Successfully argued that an alleged ‘disguised’ firearm was actually a dual-purpose torch with a stun-gun feature. Mandatory minimum sentence therefore avoided and a non-custodial sentence ultimately achieved.
Acting for a Youth who had possessed a BB gun and was pretending to fire it at members of the public – careful representation at the police station meant that the youth was diverted away from the Criminal Justice system without a criminal record.
“D” arrested after undercover operation by Mets gang unit targeted him. Alleged that he would buy firearms and manufacture ammunition on a large scale before distributing to wider criminal network. Serious and complex case.
Our top ranking team have years of experience representing the innocent. We stand up to the prosecution who will always be represented by an experienced solicitor or barrister. We know how to fight and win cases.
Representing you at the Police Station or in Court If you need urgent representation call us today. Share a few details with us and we’ll let you know how we can help you.
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