The new guidelines applicable to sentencing those offenders convicted of firearms offences are now in force (effective from 1 January 2021).

Previously, there were no sentencing guidelines in the crown court for offences involving firearms, with only one guideline in the magistrates' court for carrying a firearm in a public place, making this area quite a sentencing minefield.

It is hoped that the new guidelines will provide the courts with the necessary tools to achieve consistency, whilst making the sentencing process more understandable and transparent.

There are now eight guidelines, which apply to offences under the Firearms Act 1968 – Read more about the new firearms offenses guidelines here.

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