Firearm by Felon Lawyer in Roanoke County, Virginia
A firearm by felon charge in Roanoke County is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carrying a mandatory minimum 2-year prison sentence; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 34 documented results in Roanoke County, including 4 dismissals and 28 reductions, demonstrating extensive criminal defense experience in this jurisdiction.
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, transport, or carry a firearm. This prohibition applies to all individuals with prior felony convictions, regardless of whether the conviction was in Virginia or another jurisdiction. A violation of this statute is a Class 6 felony, punishable by a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of two years. The law also extends to persons convicted of certain misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence, as defined under 18 U.S.C. § 921(g)(9).
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience. The firm’s approach combines deep statutory knowledge with practical courtroom experience gained from thousands of cases across Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026 | Roanoke County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Official Legal References
Local Court Procedures in Roanoke County
In Roanoke County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek the mandatory minimum sentence for firearm by felon charges. We have observed that early intervention and a thorough review of the underlying felony conviction’s validity can create use for negotiation.
The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Roanoke County prosecutes these cases aggressively, but procedural errors in the arrest or search warrant are not uncommon.
Defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Roanoke County Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time, which includes all firearm by felon charges.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present.
- Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest.
- Preserve all evidence related to the firearm and the underlying conviction.
- Attend all scheduled court appearances at Roanoke County General District Court.
- Work with your attorney to identify any procedural errors in the investigation.
- Evaluate eligibility for alternative sentencing or plea negotiations.
In Roanoke County, a firearm by felon charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carries a mandatory minimum 2-year prison sentence as a Class 6 felony.
| 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 (permanent) | Permanent criminal record; loss of voting rights; employment and housing barriers |
| Firearm by Felon (subsequent offense) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (mandatory minimum 5 years) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights (permanent) | Enhanced sentencing; federal prosecution possible |
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., Advocacy Without Borders, 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%. The firm has handled numerous firearm-related cases in Roanoke County, including 34 documented results in this jurisdiction alone. Mr. Sris personally oversees complex criminal matters, applying his background in accounting and information systems to build data-driven defense strategies.
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
Case Results in Roanoke County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 34 documented results in Roanoke County: 4 dismissed or not guilty, 28 reduced or amended, 2 deferred — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Practice area breakdown includes 31 Traffic/Reckless Driving, 2 Other Criminal, and 1 Theft/Fraud/Property. Most common outcomes include reduced to speeding 79/60 and reduced to defective equipment.
Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Woodstock is approximately 90 miles from Roanoke County General District Court, with access via I-81 and I-581. We serve clients throughout the Roanoke Valley and Shenandoah region.
If you are searching for a firearm by felon lawyer near Roanoke County, we are here to help.
Serving the communities of Salem, Vinton, Cave Spring, Hollins, and Catawba.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Firearm by Felon Charges in Roanoke County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Roanoke County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Roanoke 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 Roanoke County General District Court (305 East Main Street, Salem, VA 24153). 3 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (33% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Roanoke 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 Roanoke County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 3 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (33% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Roanoke County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Roanoke County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Roanoke County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Roanoke 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 Roanoke County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Roanoke County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine; Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months, $1,000; Class 5 felony: 1-10 years (or up to 12 months…. Early legal representation is critical — Roanoke County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Roanoke County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals;… Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at Roanoke County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Roanoke County Circuit Court (felony) (305 East Main Street, Salem, VA 24153) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Roanoke County?
Roanoke County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Roanoke 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. Roanoke County General District Court (305 East Main Street, Salem, VA 24153) is the GDC location.
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
Page Last verified: April 2026. Content reflects current Virginia law and Roanoke County court procedures.