Weapons Offences Charges in Newmarket
If you have been charged with unauthorized possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, weapons dangerous to the public peace, possession of a prohibited weapon, and use of a firearm in the commission of an offence in Newmarket, the consequences are serious. Unauthorized possession of a firearm carries a maximum of 5 years. Carrying a concealed weapon carries a maximum of 5 years. Using a firearm in the commission of an indictable offence carries mandatory minimums — 1 year for a first offence, 3 years for a second. Possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm carries a mandatory minimum of 3 years (5 years for a second offence).
The Newmarket courthouse serves all of York Region — one of Ontario's most populous regions. Criminal charges arising in Newmarket, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Aurora, Georgina, and surrounding communities are all heard here. York Regional Police is one of Ontario's largest police services, and the Newmarket court handles a substantial volume of criminal matters. Ryan Handlarski regularly appears at this courthouse and has secured acquittals after trial in sexual assault, drug trafficking, and other serious matters.
How We Defend Weapons Offences Charges
Every weapons offences case is different, but experienced defence lawyers look for weaknesses in the Crown’s case at every stage. Common defence strategies include:
- Lawful possession — valid licence, registration, or authorization
- Lack of knowledge that the item was a weapon or was prohibited
- Charter violations in the search, seizure, or arrest
- No intent to use the item dangerously or to carry it for a dangerous purpose
- Challenging constructive possession — control and knowledge not proven
- The item does not meet the legal definition of a prohibited or restricted weapon
The Court Process in Newmarket
Criminal charges in Newmarket are heard at the Newmarket Courthouse. Your first appearance will typically be scheduled within a few weeks of being charged. At that appearance, your lawyer will receive disclosure (the Crown’s evidence against you) and begin assessing the strength of the case.