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Weapons Offences in Canada: Hiring a Weapons Offence Lawyer

When it comes to weapons offences or firearms crimes in Canada, the stakes are incredibly high. Without a weapons offence lawyer you can face fines and license suspensions to prison sentences that can last decades, the consequences of these charges can alter the course of your life. Having an experienced weapons offence lawyer by your side can make all the difference in navigating this legal minefield.

Weapons offences under Canada’s Criminal Code are not limited to the possession or use of firearms. They also encompass crimes involving other prohibited weapons, devices, and ammunition. In this article, we’ll break down some of the most common weapons offences, their penalties, and why working with a Toronto weapons offences lawyer is crucial.

Common Types of Weapons Offences in Canada

1. Use Offences: Using Firearms in the Commission of a Crime

Using a firearm while committing, attempting, or fleeing from an indictable offence is a serious crime, regardless of whether you intended to cause harm. This applies not only to firearms but also to imitation firearms.

Punishments:

  • For a first offence, the penalty is imprisonment of 1 to 14 years.
  • For a second offence, the mandatory minimum increases to 3 years, with a maximum of 14 years.

2. Careless Use of Firearms or Weapons

This includes using, carrying, handling, shipping, or storing a firearm, prohibited weapon, restricted weapon, or ammunition in a careless manner, without reasonable precautions for the safety of others.

Punishments:

  • Indictment: Up to 2 years for the first offence and up to 5 years for subsequent offences.
  • Summary conviction: A fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to two years less a day—or both.

3. Pointing a Firearm

If someone points a firearm at another person, whether it’s loaded or unloaded, they can be charged with a weapons offence.

Punishments:

  • Indictment: Imprisonment for up to 5 years.
  • Summary conviction: A fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to two years less a day—or both.

4. Possession of Weapons for Dangerous Purposes

Carrying or possessing a weapon, imitation weapon, or ammunition for the purpose of committing an offence or disturbing public peace is a serious crime.

Punishments:

  • Indictment: Up to 10 years in prison.
  • Summary conviction: A fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to two years less a day—or both.

5. Carrying a Concealed Weapon

Carrying a weapon or prohibited device in a concealed manner without authorization is another common weapons offence.

Punishments:

  • Indictment: Up to 5 years in prison.
  • Summary conviction: A fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to two years less a day—or both.

Why You Need a Weapons Offence Lawyer

Weapons offences are not only complicated but carry severe penalties that could impact your freedom, career, and reputation. Hiring a weapons offence lawyer ensures that your case is handled with expertise and care. Here’s why legal representation is essential:

1. Understanding the Complexity of the Law

Weapons laws in Canada are intricate, with many offences falling into hybrid categories that can be prosecuted as either indictable or summary convictions. A skilled lawyer can evaluate the evidence and determine how best to defend your case.

2. Building a Strong Defence

An experienced lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s case, identifying procedural errors, lack of evidence, or violations of your rights. They’ll build a defence strategy tailored to your situation, whether it’s proving a lack of intent or arguing for a reduction in charges.

3. Ensuring Your Future

A weapons conviction doesn’t just mean fines or prison time. It can leave a permanent mark on your criminal record, affecting job opportunities, travel prospects, and personal relationships. A Toronto weapons offences lawyer works to minimize or mitigate these long-term consequences.

What Should You Do if Charged with a Weapons Offence?

If you’ve been charged with a weapons offence, the following step can help protect your case:

Contact a Weapons Offence Lawyer Immediately: Early legal intervention can make a huge difference in the outcome of your case.

  • Myth 1: “If I didn’t use the weapon, I can’t be charged.”
    Wrong. Simply possessing a prohibited or restricted weapon without proper authorization can result in serious penalties.
  • Myth 2: “First-time offenders don’t go to jail.”
    Not true. Even a first offence can lead to mandatory minimum prison sentences, depending on the charge.
  • Myth 3: “I can handle this without a lawyer.”
    Navigating the criminal justice system is complex. Without expert legal help, you could face harsher penalties or miss opportunities to reduce your charges.

Weapons and Firearms Toronto Lawyer

Weapons and firearms crimes are serious and detrimental to your life. 

If you’re facing weapons charges call Juzkiw Law, our experienced team specializes in defending clients against even the most complex weapons offences. We’ll guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and build a robust defence tailored to your case.

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Let a trusted weapons offence lawyer fight for your future.
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