Concealed Weapon Lawyer New Kent County, VA

If you are facing a concealed weapon charge in New Kent County, Virginia, the penalties could include jail time, a criminal record, and the loss of your right to carry a firearm. Under Va. Code § 18.2-308, carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor for a first offense—punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second offense can be charged as a Class 6 felony. Cases are heard at the New Kent County General District Court or, for felonies, the New Kent County Circuit Court, both located at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124. Mr. Sris appears regularly in New Kent County courts and brings an understanding of how local prosecutors and judges approach weapons charges. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What a Concealed Weapon Charge Means in New Kent County

Virginia defines a concealed weapon broadly. Any firearm that is “hidden from common observation” while on or about your person can trigger a charge under § 18.2-308, unless you hold a valid concealed handgun permit. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these offenses, and the arresting officer’s observations often become the central evidence. New Kent County is situated along the I‑64 corridor between Richmond and Williamsburg; traffic stops and interactions with law enforcement are a common way these charges arise. Our Richmond Location serves clients throughout New Kent, Providence Forge, Quinton, and the surrounding communities.

Misdemeanor concealed weapon cases are initially heard in the New Kent County General District Court, where there is no jury trial. Defendants have the right to appeal an unfavorable GDC ruling to the Circuit Court for a trial de novo before a jury. If charged as a felony (for repeat offenses or if the weapon is possessed by a convicted felon under § 18.2-308.2), the case proceeds directly to the Circuit Court. The firm’s attorneys are experienced with both court levels and can explain procedural options such as challenging the legality of the stop or the sufficiency of the evidence. In handling criminal matters at the New Kent County General District Court, we have observed routine scheduling practices and a familiarity among the bench and bar with the elements of the concealed weapon statute.

How Mr. Sris Handles Concealed Weapon Cases

Every concealed weapon case begins with a thorough review of the facts: whether the weapon was truly “concealed,” whether a valid permit existed at the time, and whether any exceptions—such as the weapon being in a secured container or falling under a recognized occupation—apply. Mr. Sris examines the initial police interaction, looking for potential constitutional issues that may weaken the prosecution’s case. He also assesses the strength of the Commonwealth’s evidence and the client’s background to determine whether a negotiated resolution or a trial is the better path.

In New Kent County, as in the rest of Virginia, plea bargaining is permitted under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia. The Commonwealth may agree to amend a concealed weapon charge to a non-weapons offense or to recommend a sentence that avoids a permanent firearm disability. The firm’s lawyers work to protect clients from the collateral consequences of a conviction, including the loss of the right to possess a firearm and the impact on employment and professional licenses. The approach is pragmatic: explore every lawful defense, negotiate when it serves the client’s interests, and, if necessary, take the case to trial with thorough preparation.

About Mr. Sris

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997. He is a former prosecutor and has practiced in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), demonstrating his engagement with Virginia’s legislative process. He limits his personal caseload to provide close attention to each matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the penalties for carrying a concealed weapon in New Kent County?

A first-offense concealed weapon charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308 is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second conviction is a Class 6 felony with a potential prison sentence of one to five years. If the defendant is a convicted felon, possession of a firearm is a separate felony under § 18.2-308.2 with mandatory minimum sentences in some cases. Penalties will be determined by the court based on the facts and the defendant’s record. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Can I get a concealed weapon charge dismissed in New Kent County?

Yes, a concealed weapon charge may be dismissed if the evidence does not support the offense or if a legal defense succeeds. For example, if the weapon was not actually concealed, or if the defendant held a valid permit that was not immediately available, the Commonwealth may be unable to prove its case. The firm’s lawyers examine the circumstances of the stop and search, any statements made by the defendant, and whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to investigate. Dismissal is one possible outcome, though no attorney can guarantee it. Results may vary.

Will a concealed weapon conviction affect my right to own a firearm?

Yes, a conviction for carrying a concealed weapon can affect firearm rights both under Virginia law and federal law. A misdemeanor concealed weapon conviction itself does not automatically trigger the federal firearm disability under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9) unless the offense is a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. However, a felony concealed weapon conviction will result in the permanent loss of the right to possess firearms. Additionally, a conviction under Virginia’s “felon in possession” statute (§ 18.2-308.2) carries its own firearm disability. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against concealed weapon charges?

Defense strategies for concealed weapon charges may include challenging the legality of the stop or search, arguing that the weapon was not “concealed” as the law defines it, or establishing that a valid permit existed. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-308. In some cases, negotiating an amendment to a non-weapons offense like disorderly conduct can preserve firearm rights and avoid a criminal record. Each defense is tailored to the unique facts of the case.

What should I do if I am facing a concealed weapon charge in New Kent County?

If you are facing a concealed weapon charge, exercise your right to remain silent and contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the incident with anyone other than your attorney. Preserve any documentation, including your permit, and write down your recollection of events while it is fresh. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris at (888) 437-7747.

Do I need a lawyer for a concealed weapon charge in New Kent County?

Yes, legal representation is strongly recommended for a concealed weapon charge because a conviction can carry jail time and a lasting criminal record. Even a first-offense misdemeanor may result in a fine, jail time, and repercussions for employment and firearm ownership. An attorney familiar with the New Kent County courts and the local Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office can identify defenses and procedural options that a person without legal experience might miss. Contact our firm at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.

Outbound primary sources: Virginia Code Title 18.2 – Crimes and Offenses | New Kent County General District & Circuit Courts

New Kent County General District Court is currently presided over by Hon. Wade A. Bowie. Court hours: Mon-Fri 8:00AM-4:00PM. Counsel appearing on criminal matters should plan filings accordingly.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.