Concealed Weapon Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia
Carrying a concealed weapon in Manassas without a valid permit is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-308, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Concealed Weapons
Virginia law strictly regulates the carrying of concealed weapons. Under Va. Code § 18.2-308, it is illegal to carry about your person any hidden weapon, including handguns, dirks, bowie knives, switchblade knives, ballistic knives, machetes, razors, or any weapon of like kind, without a valid permit issued by a Virginia circuit court. The statute defines “concealed” as hidden from common observation. A valid Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) is a defense to this charge. However, even with a permit, carrying a concealed weapon in prohibited places like schools, courthouses, or airports remains a separate violation.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Va. Code § 18.2-308 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms for Manassas cases are available through the Manassas General District Court website.
Defending a Concealed Weapon Charge in Manassas
In Manassas General District Court, prosecutors take weapons charges seriously. A strong defense often hinges on challenging whether the weapon was truly “concealed” and whether law enforcement had probable cause for the search that discovered it. The Commonwealth must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Case Evaluation: Immediately after a charge, consult with a defense attorney to review the arrest details, the search circumstances, and your permit status.
- Investigation: Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain the police report, bodycam footage, and any witness statements to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: If the weapon was found during a search, your lawyer may file a motion to suppress the evidence if your Fourth Amendment rights were violated.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal. If no fair offer is made, they will prepare to present your defense at a bench trial before a judge.
Potential Penalties for a Concealed Weapon Conviction
In Manassas, a concealed weapon violation under Va. Code § 18.2-308 is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying severe penalties and long-term consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Loss of CHP; potential impact on driver’s license | Permanent criminal record; firearm possession rights affected |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (Subsequent Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years, or up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Loss of all firearm rights | Felony record; loss of voting rights; ineligible for many jobs |
| Carrying in Prohibited Place (e.g., school) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory loss of CHP for 5 years | Enhanced penalties; separate charge |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Weapons Charges
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team understands both the legal statutes and the practical realities of Manassas courtrooms. Mr. Sris has personally handled complex criminal matters and provides strategic oversight. For weapons charge defense, our team includes attorneys with direct law enforcement insight, such as Of Counsel Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of experience in investigations.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results
Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes (dismissals, reductions, not guilty verdicts). While results are specific to each case, our systematic approach to challenging evidence and negotiating with prosecutors is applied to every concealed weapon charge we handle.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Concealed Weapon Defense Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We are your local concealed weapon lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown. We serve clients throughout the Manassas area.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Manassas?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second offense is a Class 6 felony.
Can I get a concealed weapon charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. If the charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecutor enters a nolle prosequi, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A conviction for carrying a concealed weapon generally cannot be expunged.
Do I need a lawyer for a concealed carry violation in Manassas?
Yes. The penalties are severe and include jail time and a permanent criminal record. A skilled concealed carry violation lawyer Manassas can challenge the legality of the stop or search, negotiate for a reduction, or take your case to trial.
What if I have a valid permit from another state?
Virginia recognizes concealed handgun permits from states with which it has reciprocity. If you have a valid permit from a reciprocal state, it is a defense to a charge under § 18.2-308. A weapons charge defense lawyer Manassas can verify your permit’s status and assert this defense.
What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and felony concealed weapon charge?
A first offense is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor. A second or subsequent offense is a Class 6 felony, carrying 1-5 years in prison and the long-term consequences of a felony record, including loss of firearm rights and voting rights.
For more information on related defenses, see our pages on Criminal Defense in Fairfax and DUI Defense in Manassas. Learn more about our firm on our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.