Firearms Offences 

Firearms Offence Lawyers Melbourne

Professional Legal Support for Weapons and Firearms Allegations

The laws surrounding firearms in Victoria are among the strictest in the world. Being charged with a weapons offence is a serious matter that can lead to life-altering consequences, including the permanent loss of your licence or imprisonment.

At Marco Man & Associates, we recognise that many firearms cases arise from complex regulatory misunderstandings or licensing oversights. Our team provides a calm, expert perspective to help you navigate these high-stakes situations.

Because firearms legislation is highly technical, having professional legal guidance at an early stage is vital. We work to ensure you understand the charges against you and that every possible defence is explored to protect your rights and your livelihood.

Facing a firearms charge? Call our Melbourne office today to speak with our team about your situation and obtain immediate legal advice.

What Firearms Offences Involve

Victorian law regulates not only guns, but also a wide range of items classified as prohibited weapons. Marco Man & Associates assists clients with matters including:

  • Unlawful Possession of Firearms: Allegations involving possession of a firearm without the appropriate permit or licence.
  • Storage Violations: Charges relating to failure to store firearms or ammunition in accordance with strict safety requirements.
  • Prohibited Firearms: Matters involving weapons that are entirely banned in Victoria, such as automatic or certain semi-automatic firearms.
  • Firearms Licensing Issues: Assistance with appeals against cancelled or suspended licences and “fit and proper person” assessments.
  • Police Firearms Seizure: Guidance following the seizure of firearms or weapons by police.

Potential Penalties & Consequences

Weapons offences are treated by the courts as serious public safety matters. Firearms penalties can be severe and often escalate depending on the nature of the weapon and the circumstances of the alleged offence.

Potential consequences may include:

  • Significant financial penalties and court-imposed fines.
  • Permanent cancellation of a firearms licence and forfeiture of firearms and equipment.
  • Being declared a “prohibited person,” preventing firearm possession for an extended period.
  • A recorded criminal conviction, which may affect employment opportunities and international travel.
  • Custodial sentences for serious breaches or unlawful possession.

How Marco Man & Associates Can Help

When engaging a firearms offence lawyer in Melbourne, you need a legal team that understands the technical detail of the Firearms Act. Our approach addresses both the legal requirements and the practical realities of your situation.

  • Technical Compliance Review: Assessing whether the item in question meets the statutory definition of a firearm or prohibited weapon.
  • Challenging Search Evidence: Investigating whether police searches, warrants, and seizures were conducted lawfully.
  • Licensing Advocacy: Representing clients before the Firearms Appeals Committee to restore licensing for work, sport, or recreation.
  • Court Representation: Providing focused and persuasive advocacy to ensure the court understands the context of the charges.

Speak to an experienced firearms lawyer today. Reach out to our team to review your case and protect your future.

Why Choose Our Firm?

Marco M

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does it mean to be a "prohibited person" in Victoria?

If you are convicted of certain offences, you may be automatically classified as a prohibited person. This means you cannot possess, carry, or use a firearm. Marco Man & Associates can advise you on whether your charges carry this risk and how to potentially avoid this classification. 

Can I be charged if I have an antique firearm that doesn't work?

The law regarding antique or “deactivated” firearms is very specific. Even if a gun cannot fire, it may still be classified as a firearm under the law if it can be repaired or if it looks like a modern weapon. Our team can help determine the legal status of your item. 

What happens if my firearms licence is suspended due to an Intervention Order?

In Victoria, if you are a respondent to an Intervention Order, your firearms licence is usually suspended or cancelled automatically. We can assist you in navigating the court process to address the order and, where possible, work toward the return of your licence.