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(last modified October 1, 2025 at 5:18am)

Facing allegations related to firearms or offensive weapons can be a stressful and life-changing experience.

Whether you have been charged with illegal possession of a firearm, carrying a knife, or threatening someone with an offensive weapon, having an experienced firearms and offensive weapons defence solicitor is vital to protecting your rights and future.

If you're accused of possessing a firearm or offensive weapon, call our trusted criminal defence solicitors in London on 0203 959 7755 for expert legal advice.

Table of Contents

Understanding Firearms and Offensive Weapons Offences

The law in the UK takes firearms and offensive weapons offences very seriously. Under the Firearms Act 1968 and the Prevention of Crime Act 1953, it is a criminal offence to possess, carry, or use firearms and certain offensive weapons without lawful authority.

Offensive weapons include knives, swords, machetes, knuckle dusters, stun guns, and other items adapted or intended to cause harm. Even everyday tools can be considered offensive weapons if the police suspect you intended to use them to injure someone.

Key points to remember:

  • Possession offences can occur with or without intent to cause harm.
  • Penalties vary depending on the weapon and circumstances, ranging from fines to custodial sentences.
  • Threatening behaviour or use of the weapon can lead to harsher penalties.

Sentencing for Firearms and Offensive Weapons Offences

Sentences for offences involving firearms and offensive weapons depend on the type of weapon, the nature of the offence, and the offender's background.

Possession of Bladed Articles and Offensive Weapons

Possessing knives, swords, knuckle dusters, or stun guns is punishable by up to four years in prison. Offences can be tried in the Magistrates' Court or the Crown Court, depending on the severity. Other penalties can include fines or community orders.

Threatening with Bladed or Offensive Weapons

If a weapon is used to threaten or intimidate someone, the maximum sentence is also up to four years' imprisonment. Courts consider aggravating factors such as prior convictions or intent to harm and mitigating factors like an early guilty plea.

Firearm Offences

Illegal possession of a firearm carries significant prison sentences, often starting at five years. This applies even if the firearm was not intended for use or if you were unaware that it was in your possession. Firearm offences also include possession of imitation guns or illegal modifications to firearms.

How Sentences Are Decided

Courts consider multiple factors when sentencing for weapon possession, including:

  • The type and seriousness of the offence
  • Any previous convictions
  • The offender's intent and level of culpability
  • Aggravating or mitigating factors

Early guilty pleas may result in reduced sentences, reflecting remorse and cooperation with the court.

Defending Against Weapon Possession Charges

Facing weapon possession charges can be stressful, but having a specialist criminal defence solicitor can significantly affect the outcome. Our solicitors will:

  • Review the evidence carefully
  • Advise on the most effective defence strategy
  • Represent you in police interviews and court proceedings

Possible defences include:

  • Self-defence
  • Accidental possession
  • Provocation

Our specialist criminal defence solicitor can identify the strongest defence strategy and present it effectively in court.

Why You Need a Firearms and Offensive Weapons Defence Solicitor

Facing charges related to firearms or offensive weapons is complex and can carry severe legal consequences. Hiring a specialised criminal defence solicitor ensures that your case is handled professionally and that your rights are fully protected.

A defence solicitor can:

  • Review the evidence and identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
  • Provide guidance before and during police interviews to avoid self-incrimination.
  • Represent you in Magistrates' or Crown Court hearings.
  • Advise on possible defences, such as self-defence, accidental possession, or provocation.
  • Negotiate reduced charges or work toward dismissal of the case where possible.

Choosing a solicitor who specialises in firearm possession defence in the UK and knife and offensive weapon charges gives you the best chance of achieving a favourable outcome.

For professional legal support regarding firearm or offensive weapon offences, get in touch with our criminal defence solicitors on 0203 959 7755.

What Does a Firearms and Offensive Weapons Defence Solicitor Do?

Our firearms and offensive weapons defence solicitor in Hayes specialises in defending clients accused of offences involving knives, firearms, or other offensive weapons.

We provide expert advice at every stage, from police interviews to court hearings. Our role is to review the evidence, identify possible defences, and represent clients to achieve the best possible outcome.

Our criminal defence solicitors:

  • Provides expert legal advice on firearm and offensive weapon offences
  • Reviews evidence and identifies weaknesses in the case
  • Develops tailored defence strategies, including self-defence or accidental possession
  • Represents clients during police interviews and court proceedings
  • Negotiates reduced charges or seeks case dismissal where possible
  • Explains potential sentences and legal consequences
  • Advises on funding options like fixed fees, private funding, or legal aid
  • Supports clients throughout the entire legal process

What Types of Offences Do Offensive Weapons Defence Solicitors Handle?

Our offensive weapons defence solicitors handle a wide range of cases, including:

  • Illegal possession of knives, swords, or other bladed articles
  • Carrying or threatening with offensive weapons like knuckle dusters or stun guns
  • Possession of firearms, imitation firearms, or illegal firearm modifications
  • Threatening or violent use of weapons

Their expertise in criminal defence for knives and firearms ensures tailored advice and robust representation in court.

Accused of carrying or possessing a firearm or offensive weapon? Speak to our expert criminal defence solicitors at 0203 959 7755 for trusted advice.

What Should I Do If I've Been Falsely Accused of Illegal Possession of a Firearm or Offensive Weapon?

If falsely accused of illegal possession of a firearm or offensive weapon, contact Moeen & Co. Solicitors immediately at 0203 959 7755 for confidential legal advice.

Our criminal defence solicitors can guide you through the process, explain your legal rights, and help assess the strength of the case against you.

We will protect your legal rights, gather evidence to support your innocence, and challenge any false claims head-on. We also work with digital forensic teams to uncover inconsistencies in the prosecution's case.

When Should I Contact a Weapon Possession Solicitor?

It is important to contact a weapon possession solicitor as soon as you are accused of carrying or possessing an offensive weapon or firearm. Early legal advice can prevent mistakes during police interviews and ensure that all legal procedures are correctly followed.

Our criminal defence solicitors specialising in firearm possession defence can guide you through complex laws and help avoid unnecessary penalties.

Can a Solicitor Help Reduce Charges or Get My Case Dropped?

Yes. Our experienced criminal defence lawyer for knives and firearms can carefully review the evidence and, where possible, negotiate reduced charges or work toward dismissal. Possible defences include provocation, lack of intent, or acting under duress. Expert legal representation can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case, particularly in complex weapon possession cases in the UK.

Why Choose Our Firearms and Offensive Weapons Defence Solicitors

At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, we are experienced in defending individuals accused of Illegal possession of firearms and offensive weapons across England and Wales. We offer 24/7 legal support in urgent cases.

Our specialist sexual offence solicitors will:

  • Assess your case and provide expert legal advice.
  • Build a strong defence strategy.
  • Assess the evidence and identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
  • Challenge any weak evidence.
  • Highlight factors that might reduce your sentence.
  • Negotiate plea deals or reduced sentences.
  • Represent you in court and protect your rights.
  • Advise whether to plead guilty or not guilty based on the evidence.

Our criminal defence solicitors look for weaknesses in the prosecution's case. This can help to reduce charges, negotiate plea deals, or have the case dismissed entirely.

Contact Expert Firearms and Offensive Weapons Defence Solicitors Today

If you are facing allegations related to firearms, knives, or other offensive weapons, it is essential to act quickly. Early legal advice can prevent mistakes that may harm your case.

If you are accused of illegal possession of firearms and offensive weapons, contact Moeen & Co. Solicitors today at 0203 959 7755 for confidential advice.

At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, our expert team of firearms and offensive weapons defence solicitors in London provides professional, confidential support from your first police interview through to court representation.

There are several ways to contact our solicitors based in Hayes, London:

We are located near Hayes and Harlington Station on Hayes High Street, in Hayes Town Centre. 

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Moeen & Co. Solicitors before making any decisions based on the information provided on this website.

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