Weapon & Firearm Offences

These charges can be:

  •  Unauthorized possession of a firearm;

  •  Possession of a prohibited or restricted weapon;

  •  Unsafe storage;

  •  Unauthorized transportation;

  •  Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose; and/or

  •  Firearms trafficking or using a weapon during the commission of another criminal offence.

Weapon and firearm offences are prosecuted seriously in British Columbia and often carry

Depending on the circumstances, these allegations may proceed by indictment and can result in lengthy periods of imprisonment, mandatory firearm prohibitions, and a permanent criminal record.

Firearm investigations frequently involve the execution of search warrants, vehicle stops, searches of residences, and the seizure of firearms, ammunition, electronic devices, and other evidence. These cases often raise important legal issues concerning ownership, possession, knowledge, and whether police complied with the requirements of the Criminal Code and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms during the investigation.

A conviction can have consequences beyond the courtroom. It may affect your employment, ability to obtain or renew firearms licences, international travel, immigration status, and future opportunities. Given the seriousness of these allegations, obtaining legal representation at the earliest opportunity is essential.

Our Approach

Our firm understands that every firearm case presents unique legal and factual issues. We conduct a comprehensive review of the Crown’s disclosure, including search warrants, police reports, forensic evidence, witness statements, and the circumstances surrounding the seizure of any firearms or weapons.

Where appropriate, we examine whether your Charter rights were respected, whether police acted lawfully during the investigation, and whether the Crown can prove every essential element of the offence beyond a reasonable doubt. We provide practical advice throughout the legal process, advocate vigorously on your behalf, and develop a defence strategy tailored to your individual circumstances with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome.