Gun Crime Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearms charge in Henrico County is a serious matter under Virginia law, with penalties ranging from mandatory minimum prison sentences to permanent felony records. As a dedicated gun crime lawyer Henrico County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands the local prosecution strategies at the Henrico County General District and Circuit Courts.
Virginia Gun Crime Laws and Penalties
Virginia categorizes firearms offenses with severe consequences. Key statutes include Va. Code § 18.2-308, which prohibits carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, and § 18.2-53.1, which addresses use or display of a firearm in committing a felony. A conviction can lead to mandatory active incarceration, loss of firearm rights, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of both sides of the courtroom. This experience is critical when building a defense against complex gun charges where the prosecution often seeks maximum penalties.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s firearms laws, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website for Title 18.2, Chapter 7. Court procedures and filing information for Henrico County can be found on the Henrico County General District Court official website.
Local Court Process for Firearms Charges in Henrico
Firearms charges in Henrico County typically begin with an arrest or summons. Misdemeanor charges like first-offense concealed carry are heard in Henrico County General District Court at 4301 East Parham Road. Felony charges, such as possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (§ 18.2-308.2), start with a preliminary hearing in General District Court before potentially moving to Henrico County Circuit Court for a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Henrico County prosecutes these cases aggressively.
- Initial Appearance & Bond Hearing: After arrest, you will appear before a magistrate. An attorney can argue for personal recognizance or reasonable bond.
- Arraignment in General District Court: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea. Do not plead guilty without consulting a gun charge defense lawyer Henrico County.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and review all prosecution evidence for weaknesses.
- Trial or Resolution: Depending on the evidence, your case may proceed to a bench trial in GDC, be appealed to Circuit Court for a jury trial, or be resolved through a negotiated plea to a lesser charge.
Potential Penalties for Firearms Offenses
In Henrico County, gun crimes carry severe penalties, including mandatory prison time for certain felonies and permanent loss of the right to possess firearms.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concealed Weapon (First Offense) § 18.2-308 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Forfeiture of weapon |
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon § 18.2-308.2 | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years* | Up to $2,500 | Permanent firearm prohibition | Enhanced penalties for violent felons |
| Use of Firearm in Felony § 18.2-53.1 | Separate Felony | Mandatory minimum 3 years* | N/A | Permanent firearm prohibition | Sentence runs consecutively to underlying felony |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Mandatory minimum sentences require active incarceration.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Gun Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the Commonwealth builds its cases. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges. Our approach involves a meticulous review of the stop, search, seizure, and arrest procedures to protect your constitutional rights.
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
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
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of advocating for clients in Henrico County and across Virginia. While every case is unique, our strategic approach focuses on challenging the legality of searches, the chain of custody of evidence, and the specific intent required for a conviction. We work to have evidence suppressed, charges reduced, or cases dismissed where possible.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Secondary attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in cases involving forensic evidence or financial aspects.
Local Representation for Henrico County Residents
Our Richmond location serves clients throughout Henrico County, including Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, and Highland Springs. We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. If you need a firearms offense defense lawyer Henrico County near the Henrico County General District Court, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gun Crimes in Henrico County
What is the penalty for a first-time concealed weapon charge in Virginia?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The court may also order forfeiture of the firearm.
Can I get a gun charge expunged from my record in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia law allows expungement only for charges that resulted in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi (Va. Code § 19.2-392.2). A conviction for a firearms offense, even a misdemeanor, generally cannot be expunged, creating a permanent public record.
What is a “mandatory minimum” sentence for a gun crime?
A mandatory minimum is a prison term set by law that a judge must impose upon conviction. For example, possession of a firearm by a convicted violent felon carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years. These sentences cannot be suspended or probated.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor gun charge?
Yes. Even a Class 1 misdemeanor carries a potential jail sentence and creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and your right to possess firearms in the future. A gun charge defense lawyer Henrico County can protect your rights.
What defenses are available against gun charges?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the stop or search (Fourth Amendment), proving lack of knowledge or possession, asserting a valid permit or exemption, or questioning the firearm’s operability. The right defense depends entirely on the specific facts of your case.
For more information on related legal matters in our area, see our pages on Virginia criminal defense, or consider our services for DUI defense in Henrico County. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.