Firearm by Felon Lawyer in James City County, Virginia
A firearm by felon charge in James City County is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, carrying a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison and up to 5 years. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented case results in James City County, with favorable outcomes in all reported instances.
Understanding Firearm by Felon Charges Under Virginia Law
Under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, it is unlawful for any person who has been convicted of a felony in Virginia or any other jurisdiction to knowingly and intentionally possess, transport, or carry a firearm. This prohibition applies to any firearm, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. The statute also covers individuals convicted of certain misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence. A violation is a Class 6 felony, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 2 years in prison, with a maximum of 5 years. The law is strict, and even temporary or constructive possession can lead to charges. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defend clients facing these serious allegations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Williamsburg/James City County GDC | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, visit Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on Virginia’s court system and procedures, see Williamsburg/James City County GDC (Virginia Courts — official site).
Insider Knowledge: How James City County Prosecutors Handle Firearm by Felon Cases
In James City County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek the mandatory minimum sentence for firearm by felon charges. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office places a high priority on these cases due to public safety concerns.
The court at 5201 Monticello Ave, Suite 4, Williamsburg, VA 23188 hears all preliminary hearings for felony charges. The key is to act before the case is certified to the Circuit Court.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve any evidence that may support your defense, such as receipts or records showing lawful possession.
- Contact a Firearm by Felon Lawyer James City County immediately to begin building a defense strategy.
- Attend all scheduled court appearances with your attorney.
- Review the facts of your case to identify potential defenses, such as an illegal search or lack of knowledge.
- Consider whether a plea agreement or alternative disposition is available.
Penalties for Firearm by Felon in James City County
In James City County, a firearm by felon charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carries a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison and a maximum of 5 years, along with significant fines and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firearm by Felon (First Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 2 to 5 years (mandatory minimum 2 years) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Loss of voting rights, difficulty with employment and housing |
| Firearm by Felon (Subsequent Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 2 to 5 years (mandatory minimum 2 years) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Enhanced sentencing under habitual offender statutes |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Firearm by Felon Defense?
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Our team understands the details of Virginia firearm laws and the local court system in James City County. We provide aggressive, strategic defense for clients facing serious felony charges. Advocacy Without Borders means we are available 24/7 to protect your rights and fight for favorable outcome in your case.
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
Case Results in James City County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented case results in James City County: all reported outcomes were favorable, including dismissals and reductions. While these results are specific to traffic and reckless driving matters, they demonstrate our firm’s ability to achieve positive outcomes in local courts. Results may vary. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 50 miles from Williamsburg/James City County GDC, with access via I-64 and Route 60. We serve as a felon with firearm defense lawyer James City County and a prohibited person gun charge lawyer James City County.
Firearm by Felon Lawyer near James City County — we are here to help.
Serving the communities of Williamsburg, Norge, Toano, and Lightfoot.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (804) 201-9009 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Firearm by Felon Charges in James City County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in James City County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in James City 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 Williamsburg/James City County GDC (5201 Monticello Ave, Suite 4, Williamsburg, VA 23188).
Can criminal charges be expunged in James City 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 James City County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in James City County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in James City County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Williamsburg/James City County GDC.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in James City 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 James City County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
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.
Related Practice Areas and Locations
Learn more about our services: Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Virginia (state hub).
Explore other locations we serve: Petit Larceny Lawyer Stafford County and Petit Larceny Lawyer New Kent County.
See our related practice areas: Business Compliance Lawyer James City County and Licensing Lawyer James City County.
Last updated: 2026-04-28
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
By appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. | (888) 437-7747 | 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225