Weapons and Firearms Charges

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Weapons offences involve the illegal use, sale, possession, distribution, or trafficking of a weapon. If you have been charged with a weapons or firearms offence in Melbourne or anywhere in Victoria, it is important to obtain legal advice immediately. Weapons offences can carry serious criminal penalties, including substantial fines, community correction orders, and imprisonment.

At Balot Reilly Criminal Lawyers, our experienced Melbourne criminal defence lawyers regularly represent clients charged with weapon offences, firearm offences, and prohibited weapon offences in courts throughout Victoria. Our legal team carefully examines the police evidence, identifies possible legal defences, and prepares a strong strategy aimed at achieving the best possible outcome in court.

Weapons and Firearms Lawyers in Victoria

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Frequently Asked Questions About Weapons and Firearms Charges in Victoria

A weapons offence is a criminal offence involving the unlawful possession, use, sale, trafficking, or importation of a weapon.

In Victoria, weapons offences are primarily governed by the Control of Weapons Act 1990 and the Firearms Act 1996.

A weapon offence may occur where a person:

  • possesses a prohibited weapon
  • carries a weapon without lawful excuse
  • uses a weapon in a threatening or dangerous manner
  • sells or traffics prohibited weapons
  • unlawfully possesses or uses firearms

Even everyday objects such as knives, baseball bats or tools can lead to criminal charges if police allege they were carried as a weapon.

Victorian law prohibits the possession of certain weapons unless a person holds a lawful exemption or permit.

Examples of prohibited weapons include:

  • flick knives
  • knuckle dusters
  • throwing stars
  • tasers or stun guns
  • pepper spray or mace
  • nunchaku
  • crossbows
  • imitation firearms

Possessing or trafficking these weapons without lawful authority may result in serious criminal charges.

Firearms Offences

Offences involving firearms may include:

  • unlawful possession of a firearm
  • use or discharge of a firearm
  • trafficking firearms
  • possessing an unregistered firearm

These offences are governed by the Firearms Act 1996 (Vic) and can carry severe penalties.

 

Prohibited Weapon Offences

Prohibited weapon offences may include:

  • possession of a prohibited weapon
  • carrying a weapon without lawful excuse
  • trafficking prohibited weapons
  • importing prohibited weapons

These offences are regulated under the Control of Weapons Act 1990 (Vic).


Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose

Police may charge a person with possessing a weapon if they believe the item was intended to be used to cause injury or threaten another person.

Even objects such as:

  • knives
  • bats
  • tools
  • improvised weapons

may result in criminal charges depending on the circumstances

OUR APPROACH

We assess the evidence, identify available defences, and develop a clear strategy to minimise penalties or avoid conviction where possible.

✔️ We will carefully listen to your story & support you

✔️ We will offer defense strategies to help you

✔️ We will advise you in plain-language, no legal jargon

✔️ We will minimise penalties and damage to your life where possible

✔️ We will offer the best legal representation in court

What You Can Expect

✔️ Clear, practical legal advice from experienced criminal defence lawyers

✔️ Strong representation in Melbourne courts from the outset

✔️ Strategic guidance tailored to your specific circumstances

✔️ Transparent communication at every stage of your matter

✔️ Proactive defence focused on minimising penalties and protecting your record