Weapons Offences Charges in North York
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 North York, 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).
North York criminal cases have historically been heard at the Ontario Court of Justice at 1000 Finch Avenue West, one of Toronto's busiest criminal court locations. Some matters have been consolidated to 10 Armoury Street in downtown Toronto. Toronto Police Service handles law enforcement, and North York sees a wide range of criminal charges including domestic assault, weapons offences, drug trafficking, and robbery. Ryan Handlarski has secured multiple acquittals and charge withdrawals at 1000 Finch Court.
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 North York
Criminal charges in North York are heard at the Toronto North Court (1000 Finch Ave W). 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.