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Inner West Criminal Lawyers provide clear, strategic criminal defence with honest advice and confidential representation when it matters most.

Firearms and Weapons

Firearms and weapons offences are treated with the utmost seriousness under New South Wales law.

Firearms and weapons offences are treated with the utmost seriousness under New South Wales law. These charges often attract severe penalties, including mandatory terms of imprisonment, lengthy disqualification periods, and permanent consequences for a person’s criminal record. Even technical breaches of firearms or weapons legislation can result in significant legal consequences.

Our lawyers are highly experienced in defending firearms and weapons charges and are best placed to guide you through the legal process and work towards the best possible outcome.

Unauthorized Possession or Use of Pistol or Prohibited Firearm

Firearms offences can arise in a wide range of circumstances, including possession without a licence, unauthorised use, unsafe storage, or possession of a prohibited firearm.

Common firearms offences include:
● Possession of an unlicensed firearm
● Possession of a prohibited firearm
● Use of a firearm without authority
● Failing to safely store a firearm
● Carrying a firearm in a public place

To prove a firearms offence, the prosecution must establish that the accused knowingly possessed, used, or controlled a firearm and did so without lawful authority or excuse.

Penalties for Firearms Offences can include:
● Criminal Conviction
● Heavy fines
● Firearms licence cancellation or disqualification
● Mandatory or discretionary imprisonment (depending on the offence)

Defences may be available depending on the circumstances, including lack of knowledge, lawful authority, or challenging the legality of police searches and seizures.

Unauthorized Possession or Use of Prohibited Weapon

Weapons Offences can include the possession, use, or carrying a prohibited weapon without proper authorisation. Prohibited weapons include a wide range of items, even where no injury has occurred.

Examples of prohibited weapons include:
● Knives and flick knives
● Knuckle-dusters
● Batons and extendable batons
● Tasers and stun guns
● Firearms accessories and modified weapons

Possession alone is sufficient to constitute an offence, and police do not need to prove an intention to use the weapon.

To prove a charge involving a prohibited weapon, the prosecution must establish:
1. Possession or control of the weapon
2. That the item is classified as a prohibited weapon
3. Lack of lawful authority or excuse

Penalties for Prohibited Weapons Offences can include:
● Criminal Conviction
● Fines
● Community Service
● Imprisonment

Firearms Prohibition Orders and Weapons Prohibition Orders

Firearms Prohibition Orders (FPOs) and Weapons Prohibition Orders (WPOs) are preventative orders made under NSW law that significantly restrict a person’s rights, even where they have not been convicted of a firearms or weapons offence. These orders are commonly used by police in circumstances where they allege a person poses a risk to public safety.

Once an order is made, police are granted extensive enforcement powers, and breaching an order is a serious criminal offence.

It is our experience that these orders are often made with little oversight and that are being used by Police in order to absolute power to search a person and their house and their own discretion. You have limited time to appeal against an FPO and WPO so should seek immediate legal advice as soon as you are served with said order.

Firearm and Weapon Lawyer

If you’re searching for an expert firearms and weapons lawyer, you’re in the right place. Our firm in located in Sydney’s Inner West but represents clients across greater Sydney area and regional New South Wales.

We regularly appear at:
Sydney Downing Centre
Parramatta Local Court
Newtown Local Court
Burwood Local Court
Bankstown Local Court
Blacktown Local Court
Sutherland Local Court
Penrith Local Court; and
Hornsby Local Court

02 7262 6749

Common Offences and Maximum Penalties

Common Offences Maximum Penalties
s.7(1) Firearms Act – Unauthorised Possession or Use of Pistol or Prohibited Firearm 14 years imprisonment
s.51D(2) Firearms Act – Aggravated Unauthorised Possession of More Than Three Firearms 20 years imprisonment
s.51(1A) Firearms Act – Supply Pistol or Prohibited Firearm to Unauthorised Person 14 years imprisonment
s.51B Firearms Act – Unauthorised Supply Firearms on Ongoing Basis 20 years imprisonment
s.65 Firearms Act – Supply, acquisition and possession of ammunition 50 penalty unit fine
s.7 Weapons Prohibition Act – Offence of unauthorised possession or use of prohibited weapon 14 years imprisonment
s.93IB – Custody of knives in public places or schools 4 years imprisonment
and/or
40 penalty unit fine
Need Immediate Help?

When you need immediate legal help, you shouldn’t have to wait. Contact Inner West Criminal Lawyers at 02 7262 6749 or info@innerwestcriminallawyers.com.au or make a confidential inquiry for prompt advice, clear guidance, and strong representation from a team that understands your local courts and community.

02 7262 6749

What our Clients say

  • Jonty Willett Best criminal lawyer in Sydney

    I’m incredibly grateful to have had William in my corner. From the outset, he took the time to understand my situation truly, communicated every step of the process clearly, and gave straightforward, honest advice. Avoiding a conviction was crucial for me — it could have changed everything for me. Thanks to Will’s expertise, we achieved the best possible outcome. I have complete confidence in him and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone needing legal representation. Best criminal lawyer in Sydney!

  • Ian Spall Calm, strategic approach

    William is outstanding at what he does. His ability to negotiate and navigate complex situations is seriously impressive. He has a calm, strategic approach that gives you confidence straight away, even when things feel complicated or uncertain.
What really sets him apart is how clearly he explains your options and how thoughtfully he works through each step. He’s professional, sharp, and genuinely committed to getting the best possible outcome. You can tell he knows his craft and takes real pride in his work. With the launch of Inner West Criminal Lawyers, I have no doubt his firm will become a standout in the area. If you want someone who is switched on, highly capable, and exceptional at handling complex matters, William is the person to trust.

This webpage is intended to provide general information about matters that often come before the court and is not legal advice. For legal advice about this offence or any other criminal offence, please reach out to us and speak to one of our lawyers at info@innerwestcriminallawyers.com.au

Keep In Touch.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Keep in touch with our team to discuss your situation and understand your next steps.

    Inner West Criminal Lawyers Pty Ltd

    ACN 693 118 973

    02 7262 6749

    0493 836 340

    info@innerwestcriminallawyers.com.au

    Inner West Criminal Lawyers Pty Ltd

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