Questions about Criminal Record and Appeal?

Questioner

I have been prosecuted under the Weapons and Ammunition Act, art 55 section 3 ahf/ under b and under the Weapons and Ammunition Act, art 13 section 1. I was wondering whether or not I have a criminal record, if so, for how long, and does it make sense to appeal?? I returned from my internship abroad and had a prohibited category 1 weapon in my hold luggage.

Lawyer

Dear questioner, You write that you were prosecuted, but were you also convicted by a judge? In that case, you do indeed have a criminal record. You also write that you had a prohibited category I weapon in your hold luggage. I assume you knew that you had this weapon with you. You may not have known that it was a prohibited weapon, but unfortunately that will not help you in a possible appeal. An appeal can be lodged up to 14 days after the judge in first instance has convicted you (I assume this is the police judge). If you have a criminal record and you want to apply for a certificate of good conduct, a period of four years will in principle be examined. If you have not yet been convicted and your case is still pending in court, I advise you to hire a lawyer. He/she can request the file and prepare the defense with you. Good luck with that.