Firearms Charges
Fail to store firearm correctly, Criminal damage, Unlawful assault
Facts
Client had a heated argument with his fiancee. It culminated in the fiancee getting home first and locking the door and making crazy claims with regard to the firearm that was at the location. The client called police.
Result
Some of the charges were withdrawn and the client pleaded guilty to damaging some property and to not storing the firearm properly. It was critical that the client receive a non-conviction outcome in relation to the criminal damage charge which was an indictable matter. The recording of a conviction would have resulted in the loss of the client’s security licence which was his livelihood.
The Magistrate was persuaded and imposed a community based order without conviction, the condition being work hours only. Any supervision condition would also have negatively impacted on the client’s ability to work in the security industry.
The area of law in relation to security licences is very technical and if not approached correctly could have severe repercussions.The law has recently changed so if you have been charged with firearms offences it is crucial that you speak to a lawyer so you can be advised of these changes.
