Gun Laws and Domestic Violence: Updates Restrictions and Protections

Gun laws and domestic violence now interact under a stricter national framework. Bill C-21 introduced new measures, most of which are now in effect, that expand the tools courts and police use when they believe firearm access could raise risk. The legislation forms part of the federal government's plan to strengthen gun control and reduce gun violence. 

The Criminal Code already allowed courts to impose prohibitions, but Bill C-21 strengthens the authority to act early when a peace officer or judge identifies a concern related to intimate partner violence or family violence. However, some mechanisms are not yet fully implemented, meaning not every domestic-violence situation triggers an automatic prohibition under the current framework.

This post can help you understand how gun laws and domestic violence intersect under these new rules, how these changes may affect individuals facing domestic-violence-related investigations or charges, and what legal rights and options remain available.

A domestic violence allegation often triggers limits before the case reaches a courtroom. Release conditions can prohibit possession of firearms where safety concerns arise.

These decisions usually arise at the start of an investigation when law enforcement officers respond to a volatile incident involving an intimate partner or a family member. The court focuses on stability and prevention during this stage.

A person subject to a protection order or a peace bond may be required to surrender firearms and related documents, and police can remove firearms once the order is active. These conditions are grounded in federal law and supported by research that shows a link between intimate partner homicides and easy access to guns. These rules also acknowledge the heightened danger in domestic violence or stalking cases and can cause clients to experience changes in their daily routines when these orders take effect.

A conviction for domestic violence creates long-term consequences for gun ownership. The Chief Firearms Officer reviews the file to determine if the person can retain or renew a licence under the Firearms Act. Under new measures that came into force in 2025, a firearms licence cannot be issued to anyone convicted of an offence involving the use, attempted use, or threat of violence against an intimate partner or family member.

The review considers risk factors, and courts can impose weapons prohibition orders that restrict access to all firearms.

Courts rely on risk assessments during both temporary and ongoing decisions, which consider prior calls for service, access to other weapons, and details from the incident itself. The court may find an urgent need to impose conditions if reasonable grounds to suspect harm exist. For licensing decisions, Chief Firearms Officers now have the authority to revoke a licence within 24 hours if they have reasonable grounds to suspect that the licence holder has engaged in domestic violence or stalking.

The conclusion of a criminal case does not automatically restore gun rights. Even when charges are withdrawn or resolved through diversion, prohibitions can stay in place until formally addressed. This process engages both the court and the Chief Firearms Officer, and administrative decisions require separate action. A careful approach helps rebuild eligibility and return to work or sport once the court and licensing authorities are satisfied.

These files progress without much warning. Police respond aggressively in many instances because the subject may present an immediate risk. We guide clients through these early events and prevent temporary measures from escalating into long-term barriers. Strong advocacy helps stabilize the file and gives you a clear path forward.

Our team at Jaswal & Krueger has deep experience with criminal defence related to domestic violence matters. 

If you need direction, speaking with an experienced domestic violence lawyer early can protect your position. You can also review our Criminal Law beginner guide for a clearer overview of Canadian criminal procedure. 

When you work with Jaswal & Krueger, you can expect counsel who approach your situation with discipline and sound judgment. Our goal is to protect your rights from the outset and to make sure any decision affecting your liberty or reputation is grounded in proper legal process. Contact us for a free initial consultation to discuss your situation.