Firearms Licensing

The law governing firearms licensing in the UK is complex and difficult to navigate, so expert legal guidance is crucial at every stage. If you need advice applying for a firearm certificate, appealing against a certificate revocation, or any other firearms licensing-related issue, our expert firearms solicitors are ideally placed to assist.

Firearms Licensing Solicitors

Our specialist solicitors can advise on all issues arising from acquiring, possessing, and using a firearm, including:

• Submitting firearm certificate applications.
• Appealing against firearm certificate refusals.
• Appealing against firearm certificate revocations.
• Varying firearm certificate conditions.
• Applying for a firearm certificate with previous convictions.
• Advising on criminal law issues arising from firearms licensing.
• Advising on the unexpected possession of firearms.
• Possessing antique firearms.
• Hunting and the use of general licences.

Why choose DJMS Solicitors?

The law relating to possessing a firearm is vast, and the consequences of getting it wrong can be disastrous, with some cases warranting a mandatory prison sentence. It is therefore important to get expert legal advice when dealing with any firearms issue at any stage of the licensing process.

Our specialist lawyers have a deep understanding of the extensive legislation and regulations surrounding firearms ownership and are on hand to guide and support you through whatever issue you face. We have an excellent track record in all firearms matters, including securing firearm and shotgun certificates, successfully appealing refusals or revocations, and defending any firearms-related criminal charges.

How can I obtain a firearm certificate?

Gun ownership is tightly controlled in the UK. You need to apply to your local police force for a firearm certificate before you can acquire a firearm or buy ammunition.

The police will only grant a firearm certificate if you satisfy specific conditions, including that you are fit to be entrusted with a firearm and have a good reason for acquiring one, such as wildlife control. A firearm certificate generally lasts for five years.

Our solicitors understand the extensive requirements for obtaining a firearm certificate and how to fulfil them. We’ll prepare a watertight application that has the best possible chance of success.

Can I obtain a firearm certificate if I have a criminal conviction?

You are expected to declare any previous convictions, however minor, when applying for a firearm certificate. The police will then consider various factors, like the nature and seriousness of your offence, when deciding whether to issue a certificate.

If you received a custodial sentence of between three months and three years, you will likely be prohibited from owning a firearm for five years following your release. If your sentence was for longer than three years, you may face a lifelong ban. You can apply to the Crown Court to lift the ban.

If you are concerned that your previous convictions might jeopardise your application for a firearm certificate, speak to us. We’ll consider the circumstances of your case and advise on the likelihood of your application succeeding and how you might improve your chances of success.

When will the police revoke a firearm certificate?

Your local police force can revoke your firearm certificate for various reasons, including if they believe that you possessing a firearm poses a danger to public safety, you are of unsound mind, or you have ‘intemperate’ habits.

For example, they may revoke your certificate if you are involved in a domestic violence incident or there is a suggestion of drug or alcohol misuse.

Possessing a firearm without a licence is a serious criminal offence, so you should obtain immediate legal advice if your certificate is revoked.

Can I appeal a decision to refuse my application or revoke my certificate?

Yes, you can appeal a decision to refuse or revoke a firearm certificate to the Crown Court. Strict time limits apply, and it’s important to take expert legal advice as soon as you are notified of the decision to ensure we can prepare the strongest possible case within the time limit.

What happens if I possess a firearm without a certificate?

Possessing a firearm without a valid certificate is a serious criminal offence for which you can be imprisoned for up to 5 years. The maximum sentence is extended to seven years in cases involving converted firearms. The likely sentence depends on several factors, including the nature of the firearm and whether you intended to use it.

Possessing certain weapons, like machine guns or revolvers, subjects you to a mandatory minimum sentence of five years imprisonment.

If you are arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm without a certificate, you should seek urgent legal advice. At DJMS, we specialise in defending criminal charges of all types, including firearms licensing issues. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide the expert and robust advice and support you need.

How can DJMS Solicitors help?

If you require legal assistance with any matters relating to firearms licensing, please contact us to discuss your circumstances with a member of our experienced team.