Our firearms law specialist Laura Saunsbury has been instructed in a number of cases recently where certificate holders have been the subject of review by their local police firearms licensing department.

Long delays by the police in processing reviews and renewals are becoming an increasingly common problem in the current climate of government cutbacks. Over the past year or two many police firearms licensing departments have had redundancies leading to reduced staffing levels, particularly following mergers of the licensing departments of two adjoining police forces, which has been taking place in many parts of the country.

In one recent case Laura Saunsbury was instructed by a keen shooter in East Anglia whose shotguns and certificate were seized from him by the police following a malicious allegation by his ex-partner. Although our client was never even arrested for any criminal offence, some 5 months later he was still trying to get answers from the licensing department as to why they were continuing to retain his shotguns and certificate, and when they might be returned to him. He decided it was time to engage the help of a solicitor experienced in firearms licensing law to resolve his situation. Laura then wrote a firm letter to the police on our client's behalf, and just two weeks later our client's shotgun certificate and his prized guns were delivered back to him. Needless to say, our client was delighted and considered the legal fees involved worth every penny.

The difficulties this client faced in getting answers from his local firearms licensing department are not uncommon, and his 5 month wait is by no means exceptional. We have had other clients who have waited even longer.

If you are experiencing significant delays in your shotgun or firearm certificate being reviewed or renewed by the police, we can help. For specialist advice on these and other firearms licensing issues, contact Laura Saunsbury.