With the increased crime, many people have taken the law into their own hands. Owning a gun might seem like an excellent option to protect you and your family, but you must be aware that people must follow strict rules if they choose to own, use or possess a gun.
You could be charged with a criminal offence if you do not follow these rules and regulations. If you have found yourself in this position, you would be wise to seek counsel from a qualified criminal defence lawyer.
What are Firearms?
A firearm can shoot an object (shot, bullet etc.). This happens when gases made in the gun expand.
There are two kinds of firearms:
- Handguns
- Longarms
A firearm remains a firearm regardless of whether it is functional or made dysfunctional permanently or for a short time.
How a Criminal Lawyer Can Help You With Firearm Law
You can only purchase or own a gun once you turn 18. Firearms must be registered, and you need a licence to own one. You must follow specific guidelines to own or carry a weapon.
Some people are not permitted to get a licence. They cannot hold, own or possess guns or other weapons. Those excluded include:
- Someone who has an intervention order;
- Someone who has served time in jail; or
- Anyone who is under a community corrections order.
If you are between 12 and 17 years old, you may get a licence from the police to use a gun for learning or sports purposes. There are a few conditions that you must follow first:
- You need written permission from your parents or guardians.
- You must be a member of a certified shooting club.
- You have to undergo a course in firearms safety.
- You need to be responsible.
If you qualify for a licence, you can only use the gun with someone over 18 who has a firearm’s licence.
Before you purchase a gun, you should contact a lawyer to ensure that you follow all the laws. Firearm law can get quite technical.
The Authority That Police Have To Search for Weapons
Police are allowed to search your person, bag or vehicle without having a warrant if they have a good reason to believe that you are holding a weapon unlawfully.
Being around a place with violent crime could be reason enough for police to search you without a warrant.
There are specially assigned areas marked for weapon searches. If you are in this area, you can be searched. People know this is a search area because this is usually made known in the local newspaper. While police do not need a valid reason to search you in this area, they have to show you a search notice before searching you.
If you resist the police searching you and they have the required authority to do so, the police can charge you with an offence.
Conclusion
So many rules and regulations come with owning and using a gun. Any slight deviation from these rules could land you on the wrong side of the law.
A criminal offence regarding illegal gun use has severe consequences and widespread repercussions. If you find yourself in this position, contact a trusted criminal defence lawyer so you can be armed with the law when deciding how to navigate your case.
