A firearm by felon charge in Hanover County is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carrying a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Hanover County with a favorable outcome. Firearm by Felon Lawyer Hanover County representation is essential to protect your rights.
Firearm by Felon Lawyer in Hanover County, Virginia
Under Virginia law, it is unlawful for any person convicted of a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess, transport, or carry a firearm. This prohibition is codified at Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, which makes it a Class 6 felony for a convicted felon to possess a firearm. A conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 2 years in prison, with a maximum of 5 years. The statute applies to any firearm, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. The prohibition also extends to persons convicted of certain misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence. If you are facing such charges, a Firearm by Felon Lawyer Hanover County can evaluate your case and develop a defense strategy.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on the court system, visit Hanover County General District Court (vacourts.gov).
In Hanover County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek the mandatory minimum sentence for firearm by felon charges. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Hanover County is particularly diligent in prosecuting these cases, given the serious nature of the offense.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a Firearm by Felon Lawyer Hanover County immediately.
- Preserve any evidence related to the firearm and the charge.
- Attend all court hearings at Hanover County General District Court.
- Work with your attorney to explore defense options, including challenging the legality of the search or the validity of the prior conviction.
- Consider negotiating with the prosecutor for a reduced charge or alternative disposition.
In Hanover County, a firearm by felon charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carries a penalty range of 1 to 5 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of 2 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firearm by Felon (First Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (mandatory minimum 2 years) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Loss of voting rights; difficulty with employment, housing, and professional licenses |
| Firearm by Felon (Subsequent Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (mandatory minimum 2 years) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Enhanced sentencing; potential federal charges |
Results may vary.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Hanover County: 1 dismissed or not guilty — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary. This demonstrates the firm’s commitment to achieving favorable outcome for clients facing serious charges like firearm by felon.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 20 miles from Hanover County General District Court, with access via I-95 and I-295. If you need a felon with firearm defense lawyer Hanover County or a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Hanover County, we are here to help. Serving the communities of Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
(804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Hanover County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Hanover County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Hanover County General District Court (7507 Library Drive, Suite 201, Hanover, VA 23069).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Hanover County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Hanover County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Hanover County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Hanover County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Hanover County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Hanover County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Hanover County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Hanover County?
Hanover County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Hanover County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against firearm by felon charges?
Defense strategies for firearm by felon in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing firearm by felon charges in Virginia?
If facing firearm by felon charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
For more information on criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Virginia page. You may also find these resources useful: Petit Larceny Lawyer Stafford County, Petit Larceny Lawyer New Kent County, and Business Formation Lawyer Hanover County.
Last verified: April 2026 | This page was last updated on 2026-04-28.