Firearm by Felon Lawyer Rappahannock County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Rappahannock County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, punishable by a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison. As a firearm by felon lawyer Rappahannock County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends prohibited persons facing these charges in Rappahannock County General District and Circuit Courts.
Last verified: April 2026 | Rappahannock County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia law strictly prohibits any person convicted of a felony from possessing, transporting, or carrying any firearm. This includes antique firearms and firearms that are inoperable. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, is a Class 6 felony, but carries a mandatory minimum sentence of two years imprisonment that a judge cannot suspend. A conviction creates a second felony record and severely limits future rights and opportunities.
For a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Rappahannock County, understanding the nuances of this law is critical. Defenses can include challenging whether the item was a “firearm” as defined by law, whether you had knowledge of its presence, or whether your civil rights have been properly restored. The prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (Possession of firearm by convicted felon; penalty) — Official Virginia statute.
- Rappahannock County Courts — Official website for Rappahannock County General District and Circuit Courts.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or charge. We will review the warrant, the specifics of the alleged possession, and your prior criminal history.
- Investigation & Evidence Challenge: We investigate the legality of the search or seizure, the status of the firearm, and whether you had constructive possession or knowledge.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence if constitutional rights were violated or to challenge the sufficiency of the charge.
- Negotiation & Trial Strategy: Explore all options, from negotiating a reduction to a non-firearm offense to preparing a vigorous defense for trial in Rappahannock County Circuit Court.
- Sentencing Mitigation: If a conviction occurs, present compelling mitigation to argue for a sentence at the low end of the guidelines, despite the mandatory minimum.
In Rappahannock County, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony with a mandatory minimum 2-year prison sentence, under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory Minimum: 2 years Maximum: 5 years |
Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently; impacts professional licenses | Creates a second felony record; severe immigration consequences; loss of voting rights until restored |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we commit fully to building the strongest possible defense for clients facing severe felony charges in Rappahannock County.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
In Rappahannock County, our firm has documented results defending serious felony charges. While every case is unique, our approach is thorough and aggressive from the start. We also work closely with Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state experience, on complex legal strategy.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM; emergency evenings/weekends
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Rappahannock County courts (250 Gay Street). As a firearm by felon lawyer near Rappahannock County, we are accessible via Route 211, Route 522, and Route 29. We provide representation to individuals in Washington, Sperryville, and Flint Hill. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — all meetings are by appointment only.
Firearm by Felon Defense FAQs for Rappahannock County
What is the penalty for a felon possessing a firearm in Virginia?
It is a Class 6 felony with a mandatory minimum prison sentence of two years. The maximum penalty is five years in prison and a $2,500 fine.
Can a felon ever legally possess a firearm in Virginia again?
It depends. A felon may have their firearm rights restored by the Governor of Virginia or through a pardon. This is a complex process separate from having your civil rights (voting, office holding) restored and requires specific legal action.
What if the firearm wasn’t mine and I didn’t know it was there?
This can be a defense. The prosecution must prove you knowingly possessed the firearm. If it was in a common area or someone else’s property, you may have a defense based on lack of knowledge or constructive possession.
Does the law apply to antique or inoperable guns?
Yes. Virginia’s definition of a “firearm” for this law is broad and includes any weapon designed to expel a projectile by action of an explosion, even if antique or temporarily inoperable.
What should I do if I’m charged with this offense in Rappahannock County?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a firearm by felon lawyer Rappahannock County immediately. Your case will begin in Rappahannock County General District Court for a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for trial.
For more information on related defenses, see our page on Virginia criminal defense. Clients in neighboring areas can consult our Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer. For other legal needs in Rappahannock County, consider our DUI defense lawyers.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.