Charged with Unsafe Firearm Storage in Ontario? We Can Help.

Have police accused you of storing or transporting a firearm unsafely? Were you charged under section 86(3) of the Criminal Code of Canada?


This is more common than most people realize — and it can lead to criminal penalties, even if the firearm was legally owned and never used.


At Cordaie Paralegal, we defend clients charged under section 86(3) for:

  • Improper storage
  • Unauthorized transportation
  • Unsafe handling of ammunition
  • Regulatory breaches under the Firearms Act


We fight to protect your record, licence, and future.



Licensed firearm owner placing a rifle into a gun safe, following Canadian storage regulations under the Firearms Act.

What is Section 86(3)?


Section 86(3) states that it is a criminal offence to:

“Contravene a regulation made under the Firearms Act respecting the storage, handling, transportation, shipping, or carrying of a firearm or restricted weapon, prohibited weapon, prohibited device, or prohibited ammunition.”

This charge applies even if no harm occurred and no intent to commit a crime was present. It often stems from technical violations or simple mistakes.


Common Scenarios for s. 86(3) Charges


  • Storing a non-restricted firearm in a closet without a trigger lock
  • Leaving ammunition and a firearm stored together without separation
  • Transporting a restricted firearm without proper paperwork (ATT)
  • Storing a hunting rifle improperly during off-season
  • Firearms found during police visits unrelated to weapons


Potential Penalties

When prosecuted summarily, section 86(3) can carry:


  • Fines up to $5,000
  • Up to 2 years less a day in jail
  • A criminal record
  • A firearms ban (prohibition order)
  • Possible seizure of your other firearms
  • Damage to PAL/RPAL status and eligibility


Concerned individual reflecting on the legal consequences of a firearms storage charge under section 86(3) of the Criminal Code.
Licensed Ontario paralegal consulting with a client about summary firearm charges under section 86(3) of the Criminal Code.

Can a Paralegal Represent Me for s. 86(3)?

Yes — if the charge is prosecuted summarily (as many are).


As a licensed paralegal firm in Ontario, Cordaie is authorized to represent you under Law Society of Ontario regulations for this offence.


We defend these cases across Ontario, especially for:


  • First-time firearm owners
  • Hunters and sport shooters
  • Collectors and hobbyists



How We Help


  • ✔ Review all disclosure and police procedures
  • ✔ Identify unlawful searches or rights violations
  • ✔ Compare storage setup against regulations under the Firearms Act
  • ✔ Help present mitigating circumstances (e.g. no prior offences, clean PAL record)
  • ✔ Work to avoid conviction or seek charge reduction
  • ✔ Advocate for return of firearms where possible

Who Gets Charged Under s. 86(3)?


  • Licensed firearm owners who made a technical mistake
  • People unaware of a specific regulation
  • PAL/RPAL holders targeted during non-related police calls
  • Hunters storing equipment between seasons
  • People returning from the range or transporting firearms improperly


These are not “gun criminals” — they’re ordinary Canadians trying to comply with complex laws. We're here to help you get your life back on track.


Concerned licensed firearm owner handling a rifle at home, representing the type of individuals commonly charged under section 86(3) of the Criminal Code.
Paralegal explaining flat-rate legal fee sheet to a smiling client during a consultation.

Flat-Rate Legal Fees. No Surprises.

At Cordaie, we don’t charge by the hour.


You’ll get:

  • Transparent flat-rate pricing
  • Full case strategy explained up front
  • Free consultation to evaluate your charge and eligibility


Don’t Let a Storage Violation Ruin Your Record


Even a minor breach of a firearms regulation can leave you with a criminal conviction.


We can help reduce, withdraw, or resolve the charge before it gets that far.


Cordaie Paralegal –

Legal Defence for Responsible Gun Owners in Ontario


We know how complicated Canada’s firearm regulations can be. Let us help you fix a small mistake before it becomes a big problem.


Book a Free Consultation Now

Call Us Directly at 844-4-WIN-4-ME
Serving Clients in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, London, and Beyond


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • 1. Is this the same as careless use of a firearm?

    Not quite. s. 86(3) relates specifically to violating Firearms Act regulations. s. 86(1) is broader and relates to “careless” behaviour with a weapon. Both can be charged together.

  • 2. Will I lose my firearms licence?

    Possibly — especially if convicted. We’ll help you fight for your PAL/RPAL and avoid a prohibition order wherever possible.

  • 3. Can I just pay a fine?

    Not necessarily. Even summary conviction results in a criminal record unless the charge is withdrawn or reduced.

  • 4. Is a paralegal really allowed to handle this?

    Yes — as long as the Crown proceeds summarily. That’s the version we’re authorized to defend under the Law Society’s rules.

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