Gun Crime Lawyer Virginia
Gun crimes in Virginia are serious offenses prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (possession by felon), § 18.2-308 (concealed carry), and § 18.2-53.1 (use of firearm in felony). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience across Virginia, with 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Understanding Gun Crime Laws in Virginia
Virginia law prohibits certain individuals from possessing firearms and regulates the carrying of weapons. Under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, it is unlawful for any person convicted of a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess a firearm. This offense is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for certain prior convictions. Additionally, Va. Code § 18.2-308 makes it a Class 1 misdemeanor to carry a concealed weapon without a valid permit, with enhanced penalties for subsequent offenses. The use of a firearm in the commission of a felony under § 18.2-53.1 carries a mandatory minimum of 3 years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence. 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 charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia General District Court (misdemeanor) and Virginia Circuit Court (felony) | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Official Virginia Gun Crime Statutes
For the complete text of Virginia’s firearm laws, consult the following official government sources:
- Va. Code Title 18.2, Chapter 7 (Crimes Involving Firearms) — Virginia General Assembly — official site
- Virginia Circuit Courts — Official Site
Insider Perspective on Virginia Gun Crime Cases
In Virginia courts, prosecutors routinely seek mandatory minimum sentences for firearm-related offenses. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney often files additional charges to use plea negotiations. Early intervention by a Gun Crime Lawyer Virginia can make a critical difference in the outcome.
- Do not speak to police without your attorney present.
- Preserve any evidence of lawful possession, such as permits or receipts.
- Contact a firearms offense defense lawyer Virginia immediately after arrest.
- Review the legality of the search and seizure with your attorney.
- Explore whether a first offender or diversion program applies to your case.
- Prepare for preliminary hearing in General District Court and potential trial in Circuit Court.
In Virginia, gun crimes carry penalties ranging from Class 1 misdemeanor to Class 6 felony, with mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Felon (§ 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (mandatory minimum 5 years for certain priors) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Permanent criminal record; federal prohibition |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon Without Permit (§ 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Loss of concealed carry permit | Second offense may be felony |
| Use of Firearm in Felony (§ 18.2-53.1) | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory minimum 3 years (consecutive) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Federal charges possible |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Gun Crime 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%. Our team understands the details of Virginia gun laws and the severe consequences of a conviction. We have handled numerous gun crime cases, from possession by a felon to use of a firearm in a felony, achieving dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements for our clients.
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 Virginia Gun Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Virginia, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. Our firm-wide favorable-outcome rate exceeds 93%. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 1.5 miles from the Fairfax County General District Court, with access via I-66 and Route 50. We serve as a gun charge defense lawyer Virginia for clients throughout the Commonwealth.
Gun crime lawyer near Virginia: Serving the communities of Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Richmond, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and all Virginia jurisdictions.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax Location
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gun Crimes in Virginia
What is considered a gun crime in Virginia?
Yes. Gun crimes in Virginia include possession of a firearm by a convicted felon under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit under § 18.2-308, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony under § 18.2-53.1. These offenses carry penalties ranging from Class 1 misdemeanor to Class 6 felony, with mandatory minimum sentences for certain violations. A Gun Crime Lawyer Virginia can explain the specific charges you face.
Yes. Gun crimes in Virginia include possession by felon, concealed carry violations, and use of a firearm in a felony.
Can a felon ever own a gun in Virginia?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, a convicted felon cannot possess a firearm unless their civil rights have been restored by the Governor or through a court order. Restoration of firearm rights is possible but requires a formal petition process. An experienced Gun Crime Lawyer Virginia can guide you through this process.
It depends. A felon may regain firearm rights through restoration of civil rights by the Governor or court order.
What are the penalties for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Virginia?
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-308, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second offense may be elevated to a Class 6 felony. A firearms offense defense lawyer Virginia can help negotiate alternatives.
A Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fine; second offense may be a felony.
How can a gun charge defense lawyer Virginia help with my case?
A gun charge defense lawyer Virginia can challenge the legality of the search or seizure, examine whether the firearm was lawfully possessed, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, and present mitigating factors at sentencing. Early legal representation is critical for preserving defenses and protecting your rights.
A lawyer can challenge searches, negotiate charge reductions, and present mitigating factors at sentencing.
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Last verified: April 2026