Understand Your Situation
Possession of a weapon in a public place carries the threat of mandatory prison sentences. We help you present a lawful defence or reasonable excuse.
Defending Possession Charges
The law on carrying knives or offensive weapons is strict, often imposing mandatory prison terms for repeat offenders or those carrying knives. However, possession charges are not open-and-shut cases. You may have a legitimate reason for having the item, or the police may have conducted an unlawful stop and search.
We investigate the circumstances of your arrest and the nature of the item. Was it for work? Was it a religious requirement? Did you have a reasonable excuse? We present your context clearly to the court, aiming to avoid conviction or minimise the sentence severity.
Stopped with a Weapon?
Mandatory sentences may apply. Get expert legal advice before your interview.
Plan Your Defence
Understanding the Statutes
Charges usually fall under *Section 1 of the Prevention of Crime Act 1953* (offensive weapons per se, or adapted for use) or *Section 139 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988* (bladed articles).
A key defence is 'reasonable excuse' or 'lawful authority'. For bladed articles, specific defences exist for use at work, religious reasons, or national costume. 'Instant arming' is another complex legal area we explore. Since 2015, 'second strike' offenders face mandatory minimum sentences (6 months for adults), making expert advocacy crucial to argue 'unjust' circumstances to avoid this minimum term.
Proving Reasonable Excuse
Using a tool for work or religion? We help prove your lawful reason for possession.
Legal Aid Availability
For many criminal matters, from police station interviews to Crown Court trials, public funding (Legal Aid) may be available to cover your legal costs.
Eligibility is determined by the seriousness of the case and, in some instances, a means assessment. Our team will conduct an immediate, confidential assessment of your eligibility to ensure that financial constraints do not stand in the way of a robust defence.
