Trusted & Recommended by Clients. LED by Accredited Specialists
4.6 – 120 Reviews
The O'Brien Advantage
Proven Track Record
We have successfully defended clients against various firearm and weapon charges, ensuring the best possible outcomes. Our victories demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protecting our clients' rights and freedoms.
Firearms & Weapons Law Expertise
Our team has in-depth knowledge of firearm and weapon laws. We expertly navigate the complexities of the legal system to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients.
Personalised Approach
We understand every firearm or weapon case is unique. We take the time to understand your situation and tailor a strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.
Flexible Payment Options
We offer flexible payment plans to ensure you can access top-tier legal defence without financial strain.
Types of Firearms & Weapons Cases We Handle
UNLAWFUL POSSESSION
We defend clients charged with possessing firearms without the proper licences or permits, ensuring your rights are protected and exploring all options for dismissal or reduction of charges.
UNAUTHORISED USE
Our lawyers have extensive experience representing clients accused of using firearms without proper authorisation, working tirelessly to build a robust defence.
ILLEGAL MANUFACTURE
We handle complex cases involving allegations of manufacturing firearms or firearm parts without appropriate licences, ensuring a strategic approach to challenging the prosecution’s evidence.
UNLAWFUL SUPPLY
We represent clients charged with supplying firearms illegally, including allegations of trafficking or selling prohibited weapons without lawful authority.
PROHIBITED WEAPONS OFFENCES
Our firm assists clients facing charges related to prohibited weapons under NSW law, including possession, use, and supply offences.
OTHER FIREARMS OFFENCES
We handle a broad range of other firearms-related charges, ensuring comprehensive legal representation for any matter under the Firearms Act 1996 (NSW).
Protecting Your Rights: Actions We Can Take
At O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors, our firearms defence team understands the gravity of firearms charges and the potential impact on your freedom and future. Here’s how we can help:
Mitigation Strategies
We work to reduce charges and penalties through strategic negotiations and legal arguments, aiming to protect your criminal record and personal reputation.
Seeking Bail
Our lawyers are experienced in applying for bail and ensuring you have the best chance of being released while awaiting trial.
Negotiating Settlements
We aim for favourable outcomes through effective negotiation, including reduced charges or potential dismissal of your case.
Litigating in Court
When necessary, we vigorously defend you in court to achieve the best possible result, ensuring all aspects of your case are thoroughly examined and contested.
The best strategy depends on the specific circumstances and seriousness of your charges. Our lawyers will assess every angle of your case and advise you on the path most likely to secure a positive outcome.
Let us help you through this difficult time. Contact the expert firearms lawyers at O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors today for a free initial consultation or to book a 15-minute discussion with a member of our legal team.
Expert Firearm and Defence Law Firm
With decades of experience, our firearms offence defence team has established O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors as one of Australia’s leading criminal defence firms.
Led by our founder and Principal, Peter O’Brien, our dedicated and passionate team has represented clients in courts across the country, including appearances in the High Court of Australia.
No matter the complexity of your firearms charges, we are committed to providing clear, honest advice and a strategic roadmap to achieve the best possible result.
Our team at O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors are led by Law Society Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law and in Civil Law. To become an Accredited Specialist, a practitioner must undergo a structured assessment process. This process requires the individual to utilise their existing knowledge and skills to demonstrate their competency and expertise in their chosen area of law.
The Firearm & Weapon Defence Process
1. Free Initial Consultation
If you are facing firearm or weapon charges, contact O'Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors for a free consultation. Our expert lawyers will assess your situation, explain your legal options, and discuss flexible payment options.
2. Investigating & Building Your Case
Your Case: Your lawyer will meticulously gather evidence and develop a strategic defence, which may involve negotiating with prosecutors or preparing for trial.
3. Communication & Updates
Your lawyer will keep you informed about the progress of your case, explaining legal processes in clear terms. You'll collaborate with your lawyer to review documents and make key decisions.
4. Pursuing a Resolution
Our lawyers will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome – whether that involves negotiating a plea deal, getting charges dismissed, or representing you in court proceedings.
Remember: Firearm and weapons law is complex and seeking expert legal advice is crucial. Our experienced solicitors are here to guide you every step of the way and fight to protect your freedom.
What to Do if You've Been Charged with a Firearm Offence
Being charged with any charge can have serious legal and financial repercussions. Here’s what to do to protect your rights and build a strong defence:
- Stay Calm and Compliant
- Remain Silent: Politely inform the authorities that you wish to remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
- Cooperate with Authorities: Do not resist arrest or argue with the authorities. Remaining calm and compliant can help avoid additional charges or complications.
- Document Everything
- Record Details: As soon as possible, write down everything you remember about the incident, including the time, location, people involved, and any conversations with the authorities.
- Collect Evidence: Gather any documents or evidence that may support your defence, such as firearms licences, correspondence, or witness details.
- Contact a Firearm Lawyer Immediately
- Seek Legal Advice: Specialist firearm and weapon lawyers will assess your situation, advise you on your rights, and develop a strategy to protect your interests.
- Understand Charges: Your lawyer will explain the charges against you, potential penalties, and your options for defence.
- Bail Application: If you are taken into custody, your lawyer can assist with applying for bail to secure your release while awaiting trial.
- Avoid Discussing Your Case
- Do Not Talk About Your Case: Refrain from discussing the details of your case with anyone except your lawyer. This includes family, friends, and colleagues, as statements can be used against you.
- Social Media: Avoid posting anything related to your case on social media, as these posts can be monitored and used as evidence.
- Prepare for Court
- Legal Representation: Ensure you have a competent lawyer to represent you in court. Your lawyer will guide you through the legal process, prepare your defence, and advocate on your behalf.
- Court Appearance: Attend all scheduled court dates. Failure to appear can result in additional charges and a warrant for your arrest.
- Know Your Rights
- Right to a Fair Trial: You have the right to a fair trial, including the right to challenge evidence, call witnesses, and testify in your own defence.
- Right to Bail: You have the right to apply for bail, and your lawyer can help you present a strong case for your release.
- Act Quickly
- Timely Action: The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better your chances of building a strong defence and protecting your rights.
- Evidence Preservation: Swift action helps secure evidence and witness statements that are crucial to your defence.
Remember: Don’t face this alone. Let the firearm and weapon lawyers at O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors guide you and fight to protect your freedom and future. Whether you’re charged with unlawful possession, unauthorised use, or any other firearms offence, we are ready to help.
Voices of Justice: Client Reviews
Read what clients of O’Brien Criminal and Civil Lawyers have said in Google Reviews after we’ve helped clients restore their good names.
Wilson Tighe is the best criminal lawyer in Sydney. I highly recommended him not only for his highly competence in laws but also for his kindness and humanity. We thank him a lot for his help in our matter.
Used O'Brien solicitors for both of my criminal law cases which they managed to get all charges dismissed when I was looking down the barrel of 18 months jail. Then even more impressively ran my civil claim vs the police and I got a very good outcome and substantial pay out. Easy to talk to and actually listened and took my opinion into consideration which is a first. Highly recommend!
Dedicated, diligent and efficient! I had the good luck of being represented by O'Brien lawyers resulting in a favourable outcome. If you are looking for lawyers to represent you in a difficult criminal case, then look no further.
The quality of service provided far exceeded my expectations. The elegance and professionalism in which this firm conducts itself is to be admired. They don't treat you as just another client. I cannot recommend them enough for criminal and civil matters as they excel at both. Special thank you to Peter & Elle, I will never forget the impact this outcome has had on my life.
I recently had to engage the firm to represent me in a criminal matter. I initially liaised with Tim Rayner (criminal paralegal) who assisted with handling my case, whom I found to be professional and always responsive. Elliot Rowe (criminal solicitor) was assigned as my legal counsel. I highly commend Elliot for his consistently methodical and prudent handling of my case and his calm and patient demeanour, which provided some measure of reassurance to me during a particularly distressing period in my life.
I found myself facing the criminal justice system for the first (and hopefully only) time. Contacted O'Brien solicitors based on the number of positive reviews and was put through to Elliot. His patience with me was outstanding, helping me navigate and understand what lay ahead. Never felt rushed. He was very objective and not judgemental in any way. Gave me plenty of options which allowed me to arrive at a fair outcome. At sentencing he spent the whole day with me in court. I consider Elliot to be more an ally not just a lawyer. Can't recommend Elliot highly enough.
Me and my family have been working with O'Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors in regards to representing us for criminal defence in two cases. In both cases our solicitor Wilson Tighe was professional, transparent and provided us with professional advice throughout the procedures. I highly recommend their services to others.
Sidnie was thorough, informative and well versed. Her dedication and attention to detail, and ability to force the truth to be seen, were the reason I got the result that I should have. Highly recommended her and this firm.
O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors have been an outstanding service to me in both criminal and civil matters, if anyone or any organisation needs professional law support, this is an absolute dedication of people who have passionately studied and become experienced experts in getting results, thank you I am so grateful.
O'Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors is hands down the most reliable, understanding and professional firm I have dealt with. Peter, Tim and Wilson have helped me and my family through the roughest time and were able to provide us with an amazing outcome. I would definitely highly recommend this firm to anyone that requires Solicitors that offer professionalism and care. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH.
I highly recommend O'Brien solicitors, especially Peter O'Brien and Wilson Tighe. They went above and beyond. Easily contactable anytime I had a question, diligent, kept us up to date and always communicated each step and options with me.
As a client of O'Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors, I am extremely satisfied with the services provided by Tim Rayner and the entire team. From the initial consultation to the final resolution of my legal matter, I have been impressed with the level of professionalism, expertise, and attention to detail demonstrated by everyone involved.
FAQ’s on Firearm & Weapon Offence Law in Australia
Is it legal to own a firearm in Australia?
Yes, but it is heavily regulated. In Australia, you must have a valid firearms licence and a genuine reason for owning a firearm, such as hunting, sport shooting, or professional use. All firearms must be registered, and strict storage and transportation laws apply. Owning a firearm without a licence is a serious criminal offence.
What is the Firearms Act 1996 (NSW)?
The Firearms Act 1996 (NSW) is legislation introduced after the Port Arthur massacre to tighten gun laws across New South Wales. It regulates the possession, use, manufacture, and supply of firearms. The Act sets out licensing requirements, firearm classifications, safe storage obligations, and severe penalties for unauthorised possession or use.
What are prohibited weapons under NSW law?
Prohibited weapons include certain firearms, items like flick knives, knuckle dusters, and other dangerous weapons deemed illegal to possess, carry, or use without special authorisation.
The Weapons Prohibition Act 1998 (NSW) governs prohibited weapons and imposes severe penalties for unauthorised possession or use.
What happens if I’m caught with an unlicensed firearm?
Possessing an unlicensed firearm is a serious criminal offence in NSW and can lead to significant penalties, including imprisonment. Depending on the firearm’s type and circumstances, charges may carry mandatory minimum sentences. Legal advice is crucial if you’ve been charged with such an offence.
Can I go to jail for possessing an illegal firearm or weapon?
Yes. Penalties for illegal firearm or prohibited weapon possession in NSW are severe and may include substantial fines and prison sentences. The seriousness of the penalty depends on factors like the type of weapon, the circumstances of possession, and whether the offence is a repeat occurrence.
Do I need a licence to carry replica or imitation firearms?
Generally, yes. Even replica or imitation firearms can be classified as prohibited weapons under NSW law, depending on their appearance and functionality.
Carrying or possessing such items without proper authorisation can lead to criminal charges. Always seek legal advice if you’re unsure whether your item is regulated.
What should I do if I’ve been charged with a firearms or weapons offence?
Seek legal advice immediately. Firearms and prohibited weapons offences carry serious legal consequences in NSW. A specialist firearms lawyer can explain your rights, assess the evidence, and develop a strong defence strategy. It’s important not to speak to police without legal representation and to attend all scheduled court appearances.
