Firearm Offence Lawyers in Sydney
Award-winning Sydney law firm recognised every year among the city’s best.
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Call us now on 1800 911 129 or fill out the form below
Firearm Offence Lawyers in Sydney
Award-winning Sydney law firm recognised every year among the city’s best.
Book your consultation
Call us now on 1800 911 129 or fill out the form below
Facing firearm charges? Get Sydney’s most trusted criminal defence lawyers on your side.
Firearm Offences in NSW – Expert Legal Defence
Being charged with a firearm offence in New South Wales is a serious matter. The law imposes some of the strictest penalties in Australia for unauthorised possession or use of firearms. Even first-time offenders can face prison sentences under the Firearms Act 1996 (NSW). At Best Criminal Lawyers Sydney, we represent clients facing firearm charges with urgency, expertise and discretion. We know the law, and we fight to protect your freedom.
Understanding Firearm Offences in NSW
The Firearms Act 1996 (NSW) regulates the ownership, possession, and use of firearms in New South Wales. It classifies firearms into categories (A, B, C, D, H) and requires all individuals to have the appropriate licence and permit to own or use a firearm.
Common Firearm Charges We Defend
Possession or use of a firearm without a licence Possession of an unregistered firearm Possession of a prohibited firearm (e.g. sawn-off shotgun) Firearm offences committed while on bail or parole Use of firearm to resist arrest or threaten violence Firearm offences linked to other crimes (e.g. robbery or drug trafficking)
Penalties for Firearm Offences
Penalties for firearm offences in NSW vary depending on the nature of the offence, the type of firearm involved, and whether the person is a repeat offender. Maximum penalties include:
5 years imprisonment for unauthorised possession or use of a firearm 10 years for possession of a prohibited firearm 14 years for using a firearm to resist arrest or commit another offence
Many of these offences carry standard non-parole periods, meaning that the court must impose a minimum time in custody unless special circumstances apply.
Charged with a firearm offence in NSW? The penalties are severe.
Possessing or using a gun without a proper licence in NSW can lead to jail time — even for a first offence. At Best Criminal Lawyers Sydney, we defend clients facing charges under the Firearms Act 1996, from unauthorised possession to supplying firearms. We move fast to protect your rights and fight for your freedom.
What the Police Must Prove
To convict someone of a firearm offence, the prosecution must prove certain elements beyond reasonable doubt. These include:
The object was in fact a firearm under the law The accused had possession or control of the firearm The accused was not authorised by licence or permit
In some cases, firearms are discovered in shared homes, vehicles or storage units. Our lawyers are skilled at challenging the prosecution’s claim that our client had knowledge or control of the item.
How We Defend Firearm Offences
Each case is unique. We carefully review the evidence, apply the relevant legal tests, and work to resolve matters either through negotiation or a defended hearing. Our strategies include:
Challenging unlawful police search or seizure Arguing lack of knowledge or control Negotiating to downgrade or withdraw charges Preparing compelling sentencing submissions
Why Choose Best Criminal Lawyers Sydney
We have defended numerous firearm-related charges across Sydney and understand the complexity of NSW firearms law. Our clients trust us because:
We act urgently when firearms are seized by police We appear in Local, District and Supreme Courts We have experience negotiating with NSW Police and prosecutors
Resources and Legal Support
Firearms Act 1996 – NSW Legislation Jameson Law – Firearm Defence Lawyers
Contact Our Firearm Lawyers Today
If you’ve been charged with a firearm offence or had weapons seized, contact us immediately. We can provide urgent advice and representation to protect your rights and challenge the charges.
Call (02) 8806 0866 or book a free consultation today.
FAQs
Your Questions Answered
What is considered a firearm offence in NSW?
A firearm offence includes any unauthorised possession, use, modification, or supply of a firearm without a valid licence or permit. It also includes offences like storing firearms improperly or using one in a crime.
Do I need a licence to own a gun in NSW?
Yes. All firearm owners must have a valid firearm licence issued by the NSW Police and a permit to acquire each firearm. Possessing a firearm without both is a criminal offence.
What happens if I’m caught with an unregistered or prohibited firearm?
Being found with an unregistered or prohibited firearm is a serious offence. Depending on the type of weapon and circumstances, you could face up to 10 years in prison — even if it was not used.
Can I go to jail for just having a firearm in my car or home?
Yes. If you do not have a licence and cannot prove lawful possession, the court may find you guilty of unauthorised possession, even if the firearm was not loaded or used. Sentences often include custodial penalties.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the firearm was there?
Possibly. The prosecution must prove you had knowledge and control over the firearm. If the gun was found in a shared space (e.g. car, house), your lawyer may argue you had no awareness or access to it.
Are all firearm offences dealt with in the same court?
No. Less serious offences may be heard in the Local Court, but most firearm matters are treated seriously and proceed to the District Court. Some offences carry standard non-parole periods, making legal representation essential.
How can a lawyer help with my firearm case?
A defence lawyer can help by:
→ Reviewing police evidence
→ Challenging the legality of the search
→ Arguing you had no knowledge of the firearm
→ Negotiating to reduce or dismiss the charge
→ Preparing for sentencing if pleading guilty