Gun crimes in Chesapeake, Virginia are prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-308 (carrying concealed weapon) and related statutes, carrying penalties from Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 6 felony (1-5 years in prison). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed or not guilty — a favorable outcome in all reported instances.
Gun Crime Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia
Virginia law strictly regulates the possession, carrying, and use of firearms. Under Va. Code § 18.2-308, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor. More serious offenses, such as possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2), are Class 6 felonies punishable by 1-5 years in prison. A Gun Crime Lawyer in Chesapeake can help you understand the specific charges you face and build a defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
For the full text of Virginia’s firearms laws, see Va. Code Title 18.2, Chapter 7 (Virginia General Assembly — official site).
For court procedures and forms, visit Chesapeake General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site).
In Chesapeake General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek maximum penalties for gun crimes, especially when the defendant has a prior record. We have observed that early intervention — before charges are formally filed — can sometimes lead to reduced charges or diversion programs.
- Do not speak to police without your lawyer present.
- Contact a Gun Crime Lawyer in Chesapeake immediately.
- Preserve any evidence that may support your defense.
- Attend all court hearings on time.
- Explore whether a first-offender program or diversion is available.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable plea cannot be negotiated.
In Chesapeake, gun crimes carry penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to a Class 6 felony (1-5 years in prison).
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (Va. Code § 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; loss of right to carry |
| Possession of Firearm by Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent felony record; loss of voting rights; federal consequences |
| Use of Firearm in Commission of Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1) | Class 6 Felony | 3 years mandatory minimum | Up to $2,500 | None | Mandatory minimum sentence; federal charges possible |
Results may vary.
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%. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — has handled numerous criminal defense cases in Chesapeake, including gun crime charges. Our team understands the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures that can make a difference in your case.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed or not guilty — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary. Firm-wide, SRIS has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 90 miles from Chesapeake General District Court, with access via I-64 and I-464. A Gun Crime Lawyer near Chesapeake can provide the local representation you need. Serving the communities of Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (804) 201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gun Crimes in Chesapeake
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322). 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (favorable outcome in all reported instances). Results may vary.
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesapeake carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (favorable outcome in all reported instances). Results may vary.
Yes, but only for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
How does bail work in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesapeake. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesapeake 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).
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesapeake (City), 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 Chesapeake (City) General District Court (misdemeanor) and Chesapeake (City) 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 — Chesapeake General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Chesapeake Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals; the Commonwealth’s… Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at Chesapeake (City) General District Court (misdemeanor) and Chesapeake (City) Circuit Court (felony) (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesapeake?
Chesapeake General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesapeake 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. Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322) is the GDC location.
Chesapeake General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesapeake Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC.
For more information about criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Virginia hub page.
Explore related pages: Petit Larceny Lawyer Stafford County and Petit Larceny Lawyer New Kent County.
Also see our business law services in Chesapeake: Partnership Lawyer Chesapeake and Non Compete Lawyer Chesapeake.
Last verified: April 2026