Facing a firearms offence can be life-changing, particularly where the law imposes mandatory minimum prison sentences of five years for certain prohibited weapons.
In this case study, Ruth Barber supported two elderly farming clients.
For context
Two separate elderly farming clients were found to be in unlawful (unlicensed) possession of firearms, shotguns and prohibited weapons. Neither had any prior experience of the criminal justice system.
Unlawful possession of weapons is treated extremely seriously by the courts. Upon conviction, possession of prohibited weapons now attracts a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years imprisonment unless exceptional circumstances can be shown.
What happened next
For both clients, being required to go through a police interview and potential criminal prosecution for the first time at a late stage of life was a stressful and daunting prospect. Ruth Barber engaged an expert whose reports resulted in the charges against both being reduced and amended. She engaged sensitively and constructively with both the clients and the police, clearly explaining the law and procedure, the potential outcomes to the client, and her client’s position to the police, to obtain an outcome that was both in the interests of justice and in the best interests of her clients.
The circumstances of both clients were exceptional, both in terms of their own personal circumstances and the facts of the case.
The outcome
Both clients obtained a caution for unlicensed possession of firearms and avoided a conviction and court proceedings.
Why tees made a difference
Tees provided more than just legal representation. Ruth delivered a strategic, sensitive, and highly personalised defence at a critical time:
- Early expert intervention: Challenged the prosecution’s position and reduced the charges
- Specialist firearms law expertise: Ensured the strongest possible defence in a highly regulated area
- Clear and compassionate support: Guided clients through an unfamiliar and stressful process
- Strong representation: Effectively engaged with the police to achieve a fair outcome
- Results-focused approach: Secured cautions and avoided life-changing consequences
Giving you the full picture
Shotgun and firearm regulations have become much stricter in the past 10 years. We can provide advice to ensure you are compliant and advise on appeals against the revocation of firearms licences.
In the unfortunate event you are charged with an offence, we will engage experts to challenge police evidence and engage with the police and prosecuting authorities to obtain the best possible outcome.
