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An Aboriginal Legal Services lawyer charged with the alleged 3D printing of a firearm had his practising certificate suspended.
Joshua David Gale, a solicitor employed by Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT) Limited, was arrested and charged by NSW Police last month with 16 offences, including the alleged manufacture of prohibited firearms without licence or permit.
Police said they executed a search warrant on the ALS city offices, where investigators allegedly seized a 3D printer, blueprints for firearms, and a number of digital devices.
A compliance check on a second property in northern NSW allegedly uncovered a bolt-action rifle, two pistols, a semi-automatic, privately manufactured firearm, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and ammunition manufacturing equipment.
Gale was subject to a firearms prohibition order at the time.
Earlier this month, the Council of the Law Society of NSW moved to immediately suspend Gale’s practising certificate for the year ending 30 June 2027.
Under the substance of conduct matter, the council cited that Gale had been “charged with a number of serious offences”.
According to media reports, Gale was refused bail.
During the hearing, Gale claimed his safety was compromised due to his employment as a criminal defence lawyer.
“During my time as a solicitor I received numerous pointed threats of violence from former clients,” Gale said.
“I maintain a large practice, I have numerous clients who will be substantially prejudiced if I’m bail refused.”
Gale is due to next face court in October.
