Possession of a knife

Carrying a knife is likely to get a person into more dangerous situations than it will ever protect them from. Even if they don’t use it, they can still be prosecuted for just carrying it. Simply carrying a knife, even if there was no intention to use it, may lead to a criminal charge.

 

It is a myth that carrying a knife provides a person with protection. It has been proven that someone carrying a knife is more likely to be hurt or threatened by someone else. A person is often wounded or killed with their own knife that they were carrying, putting them at greater risk.

 

There are very few available defences for being found in possession of a knife or offensive weapon. There are of course times when a person may need to carry a knife from one place to another for a good reason. The most reasonable defence would be if the object is a tool of their trade, for example taking knives used at work to and from the place of work.

 

However, those who use knives as part of their working lives, have a responsibility to transport them safely and securely, and to make sure that they minimise the risks of both dulling the blade and injuring themselves or others.

 

If challenged by the police, the person would need to prove that they had the article on them for the use of work.