Calgary Weapons Offences Lawyer

Having a weapons offence lawyer in Calgary represent you against weapons charges has a direct impact on obtaining positive results in your case. Paul Gracia has successfully represented clients facing all types of weapons offenses, from minor possession to more serious charges of using a weapon during the commission of another crime.

Weapons offences are defined by the Criminal Code of Canada. A weapon is defined as any object or item which may be used in such a manner for intimidation or to threaten harm, injury and/or death of another person or physically inflict injury or cause the death of another person. A weapon is not limited to prohibited and restricted weapons either. Mr. Gracia has represented clients in cases where iron pipes, pepper spray, pens, tire irons, belts, cups, rocks, letter openers, and other such non-traditional weapons were used in some form during the commission of the alleged crime.

When formally charging a person with a weapons offence, the Crown has to determine whether the weapon is one defined specifically in the Criminal Code as a restricted or prohibited weapon or might be considered a potential weapon depending upon how it was used in regards to the offence. Further, those being charged with a weapons criminal offence could be charged with other crimes by the Crown if the weapon was used during the commission of another crime, like robbery and assault offences.

Canadian laws have established minimum sentencing guidelines requiring a mandatory period of imprisonment for those found guilty of, pleading guilty to, or accepting a plea arrangement for weapons offences. First time offenders convicted of a weapons offence face a minimum of one year imprisonment with extended periods for repeat offenders. In cases where the weapon was used in conjunction during the commission of another criminal offence, the minimum imprisonment period for a first offence is automatically four years. Keep in mind these are only the recommended sentencing guidelines used by the court and judges are able to impose stricter penalties and longer periods of imprisonment if they so desire.

A guilty conviction in a weapons offence is serious because it not only means a period of imprisonment, but also has other consequences affecting the livelihood of a convicted person’s life, like not being able to travel, obtain employment, and participate in volunteer work in the community. Further, the weapons charge and any other criminal offences a person is found guilty of goes on their permanent criminal record.

Calgary weapons offence lawyer, Paul Gracia has successful defended clients facing weapons charges. He has obtained the best possible outcomes for his clients using his experience and knowledge of the criminal law system. There are numerous defences Mr. Gracia has used to help his clients which you can see for yourself in the “Results” section of the website.

If you are a loved one is facing a weapons charge, contact him today at 403-975-4529 to schedule a complimentary consultation appointment and to learn about possible defences for your charges.