Gun Crime Lawyer Prince George County — Defending Your Rights and Future
A firearms charge in Prince George County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict gun laws. As a Class 1 misdemeanor or felony, a conviction can mean jail time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Gun Laws and Penalties
Virginia law categorizes firearms offenses under Va. Code Title 18.2, Chapter 7. Common charges include possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (§ 18.2-308.2), carrying a concealed weapon without a permit (§ 18.2-308), and brandishing a firearm (§ 18.2-282). The severity of the charge depends on the specific statute violated and the defendant’s criminal history. Founded in 1997, our firm has handled complex criminal cases across Virginia, including those involving firearms.
Prince George County Court Process for Gun Charges
All gun crime cases in Prince George County begin at the Prince George County General District Court located at 6601 Courts Drive. This court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony charges proceed to the Prince George County Circuit Court for jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County vigorously prosecutes these cases. An experienced firearms offense defense lawyer Prince George County can handle this two-tier system, challenging the prosecution’s evidence at the preliminary hearing to seek dismissal or reduction of charges before a case ever reaches a jury.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate for a bond hearing. A lawyer can argue for your release on personal recognizance or a reasonable secured bond.
- General District Court Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea. Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all evidence against you.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): For felony charges, the prosecution must show probable cause. Your lawyer can cross-examine witnesses and seek to have charges reduced or dismissed.
- Trial or Appeal to Circuit Court: Misdemeanors are tried in General District Court. For any charge carrying jail time, you have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court, where the burden of proof is higher.
- Sentencing and Post-Trial Motions: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for alternative sentencing or probation. They can also file motions for appeal or expungement if eligible.
Potential Consequences of a Gun Conviction
In Prince George County, a gun crime conviction carries severe penalties including incarceration, fines, and the permanent loss of your right to possess firearms.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Permanent criminal record; loss of firearm rights |
| Possession of Firearm by Felon | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Mandatory minimum possible; felony record |
| Brandishing a Firearm | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Enhanced penalties if on school property |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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
Our Approach to Gun Charge Defense
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, we have the depth to handle serious charges. Our gun charge defense lawyer Prince George County team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, examines every detail—from the legality of the traffic stop or search that discovered the weapon to the chain of custody of the evidence. We explore all defenses, including lack of knowledge, unlawful search and seizure, mistaken identity, and restoration of rights.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, maintains a selective caseload to provide strategic oversight on complex matters. His multi-state practice and background in accounting and information systems offer additional insight for cases with financial or technical elements.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has 1 documented case result in Prince George County. While every case is unique, our attorneys work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome, whether that is a dismissal, reduction of charges, or favorable plea agreement.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Gun Crime Lawyer Near Prince George County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Prince George County courts. We are accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. We provide legal representation to individuals in Prince George and the Hopewell area.
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.
Gun Crime Defense FAQs for Prince George County
What should I do if I’m arrested on a gun charge in Prince George County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with your attorney. Contact a gun crime lawyer Prince George County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Can I get a concealed carry permit if I have a prior gun charge?
It depends. A conviction for most firearms offenses will disqualify you permanently under Virginia law. Even some misdemeanor convictions can be a bar. An attorney can review your specific record and advise if a pardon or rights restoration is possible first.
What’s the difference between state and federal gun charges?
State charges are prosecuted in Virginia courts like Prince George County Circuit Court. Federal gun charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in federal court, often for crimes like possession by a felon when there’s an interstate commerce element. Penalties are typically more severe in federal court.
Is there a first-time offender program for gun crimes in Virginia?
Generally, no. Virginia’s first offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 typically exclude violent offenses and many firearms charges. However, a skilled firearms offense defense lawyer Prince George County may negotiate a favorable plea to a lesser, eligible charge.
How can a lawyer help with a gun charge?
A gun charge defense lawyer Prince George County can challenge the legality of the stop, search, or arrest; file motions to suppress evidence; negotiate with the prosecutor for reduced charges; represent you at trial; and advocate for alternative sentencing to avoid jail time.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, our Prince George County DUI lawyer can also help.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.