In Gloucester County, Virginia, a firearm by felon charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 is a Class 6 felony carrying 1-5 years in prison with a mandatory minimum 2-year sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Gloucester County, including 9 documented case results across all practice areas.
Firearm by Felon Lawyer in Gloucester County, Virginia
Understanding Firearm by Felon Charges Under Virginia Law
Under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, it is unlawful for any person convicted of a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess or transport a firearm in Virginia. This prohibition also applies to individuals convicted of certain misdemeanor domestic violence offenses. A violation of this statute is a Class 6 felony, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not less than two years nor more than five years, and a fine of up to $2,500. The mandatory minimum two-year sentence cannot be suspended. The law applies regardless of whether the firearm was used in a crime or simply possessed. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knew you were a convicted felon and that you knowingly possessed the firearm. Defenses may include challenging the legality of the search, the validity of the underlying conviction, or the knowledge element.
Last verified: April 2026 | Gloucester 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.
Official Legal References
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on the Gloucester County General District Court, visit Gloucester County General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site).
Insider Perspective on Gloucester County Firearm by Felon Cases
In Gloucester County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek the mandatory minimum two-year sentence in firearm by felon cases. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Gloucester County is particularly focused on cases involving prior violent felony convictions.
Early intervention is critical. In our experience defending these cases, the most effective strategies involve challenging the legality of the search or seizure that led to the discovery of the firearm.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence, including any documentation related to the firearm.
- Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.
- Attend all scheduled court hearings at Gloucester County General District Court.
- Follow your attorney’s advice regarding plea negotiations or trial strategy.
In Gloucester County, Virginia, a firearm by felon charge carries a mandatory minimum two-year prison sentence and a maximum of five years, along with a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firearm by Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | 2-5 years (mandatory minimum 2 years) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights; potential professional license impact | Permanent criminal record; loss of voting rights; immigration consequences |
Results may vary.
Your Defense Team
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
Documented Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 9 documented case results in Gloucester County across all practice areas, with a favorable outcome in all reported instances. While specific firearm by felon results are not listed, our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 45 miles from Gloucester County General District Court, with access via Route 17 and Interstate 64.
Firearm by Felon lawyer near Gloucester County.
Serving the communities of Gloucester and Gloucester Point.
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
Phone: (804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Firearm by Felon Charges in Gloucester County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Gloucester County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Gloucester 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 Gloucester County General District Court (7400 Justice Drive, Room 102, Gloucester, VA 23061).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Gloucester County, Virginia?
Yes. 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 Gloucester County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Gloucester County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Gloucester County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Gloucester County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Gloucester 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 Gloucester County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Gloucester County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Gloucester County?
Gloucester County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Gloucester 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.
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Last updated: 2026-04-29