Weapons Law – from Lingen (Ems), nationwide

Experienced representation in weapons law

The Weapons Act (WaffG) imposes strict requirements and severe penalties for violations, up to revocation of the firearms possession card and criminal prosecution. I have many years of practical experience and represent you before authorities and administrative courts.

Services in weapons law

• Support in licensing procedures (WBK, small firearms permit)
• Objections and lawsuits against weapons confiscation
• Defense in criminal proceedings under the Weapons Act
• Advice in find and inheritance cases involving weapons-related items
• Advice for sport shooters, hunters and collectors
• Advice for dealers and manufacturers

Emsland weapons authority, revocation and legal action

Since early 2024, firearms owners from Lingen have been dealt with by the weapons authority of the Emsland district rather than the town of Lingen. The authority reviews reliability and personal suitability regularly, at least every three years. If a firearms ownership card is revoked, quick action is needed: in Lower Saxony many decisions can no longer be challenged by an administrative objection; instead, an action must be brought within one month – for the Emsland district at the Osnabrück administrative court. The instructions on legal remedies in the decision are decisive.

When is someone considered unreliable?

Anyone who has been finally sentenced to a fine of at least 60 daily rates or to imprisonment is, as a rule, considered unreliable under firearms law for five years. Breaches of storage obligations, alcohol or drug issues and links to anti-constitutional activities can also lead to revocation. This is why the firearms consequences should already be considered in criminal proceedings – for example when a penalty order is issued.

Immediate enforcement and surrender of firearms

If the authority orders immediate enforcement, firearms and permits usually have to be surrendered at short notice, even if you bring an action. An urgent application can be made to the administrative court against this. Until the matter is resolved, it is often better to hand the firearms to an authorised person rather than having them hastily deactivated.

Sport shooters, hunters and collectors: need and safe storage

Anyone who wants to own firearms needs a recognised need in addition to reliability and expertise. Sport shooters usually demonstrate this through membership of a recognised club and regular training; the authority also reviews the need at intervals after the permit has been granted. Storage is just as important: firearms and ammunition belong in certified safes, and the authority may inspect how they are stored. Even an unlocked cabinet can lead to the revocation of all permits.

Frequently asked questions on weapons law