Our firearms law specialist Laura Saunsbury has achieved another successful outcome for a keen shooter who challenged the Police’s refusal to renew his firearm certificate on medical grounds.

The case was listed for a two day appeal hearing at the end of January but little more than a week before the appeal was due to be heard the Police reconsidered their position in light of the strong evidence Laura had assembled to support our client’s appeal including detailed medical reports from two psychiatrists confirming our client was neither a danger to himself nor others. The settlement negotiated resulted in the Police issuing to our client voluntarily and almost immediately his firearm certificate plus the shotgun certificate for which he had also applied.

Laura’s careful preparation of the case was key to the successful outcome achieved. She was ably assisted by specialist firearms barrister Nick Doherty who represented our client at a preliminary hearing of the case, and had been instructed to present the appeal at the final two day hearing. This case highlights the difficulties that can arise when the Police are not provided with a full and accurate picture of the applicant or certificate holder’s medical history. It also demonstrates that a history of mild depression or anxiety should not necessarily be an absolute bar to an individual being granted a firearm or shotgun certificate. This client was referred to Laura through his membership of the Clay Pigeon Shooting Association (www.cpsa.co.uk ) since she is their Honorary Solicitor.

For specialist advice on firearms licensing issues contact us on 020 7387 2032 and ask for Laura Saunsbury or click here.