Firearm by Felon Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Manassas 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 Manassas, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for prohibited persons.
Virginia Law on Firearm Possession by a Prohibited Person
Virginia law strictly prohibits any person convicted of a felony from possessing, transporting, or carrying any firearm. This law, codified in Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, applies regardless of whether the firearm is operational. The statute defines a “firearm” broadly, including any weapon designed to expel a projectile by action of an explosion. A conviction carries severe penalties, including a mandatory minimum prison sentence.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, review Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms for Manassas can be found at the Manassas General District Court website.
Defending a Firearm by Felon Charge in Manassas
In Manassas, these cases are prosecuted aggressively by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. A key local procedural fact is that the prosecution must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the firearm. Defenses often challenge the legality of the search that discovered the weapon or argue a lack of knowledge or control over the firearm. The court at 9311 Lee Avenue handles preliminary hearings, while felony trials proceed to Manassas Circuit Court.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a firearm by felon lawyer Manassas immediately after arrest or charge.
- Case Review: Your attorney will scrutinize the arrest, search, and seizure for constitutional violations.
- Investigation: Gather evidence regarding your knowledge, control, and the firearm’s status.
- Motion Filing: File pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence.
- Negotiation or Trial: Pursue a plea to a lesser charge or prepare for a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for a Firearm by Felon Conviction
In Manassas, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony carrying a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison, with a maximum of 5 years, and a potential fine up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory Minimum: 2 years Maximum: 5 years |
Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently; impacts professional licenses | Permanent felony record; loss of voting rights until restored; difficulty securing housing/employment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Firearm Charge Defense
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 tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a high rate of favorable outcomes. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into building defenses against gun charges.
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
While specific results are confidential, our firm’s approach in cases involving prohibited persons focuses on challenging the prosecution’s evidence. We examine every detail, from the initial stop to the seizure of the firearm. Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who founded the firm and maintains a strategic role in serious felony defenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firearm by Felon Lawyer Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. If you need a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Manassas near the Manassas National Battlefield Park or Historic Downtown, we are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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
By appointment only.
We serve communities in and around Manassas. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a firearm under Virginia law for a felon in possession charge?
Yes, Virginia law defines a firearm broadly under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. It includes any weapon designed or intended to expel a projectile by the action of an explosion, combustion, or other mechanical means. This covers handguns, rifles, shotguns, and even antique firearms if operable. The law applies regardless of whether the firearm is loaded or functional at the time of possession.
Can a felon ever legally possess a firearm in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia law provides a narrow path for restoration of firearm rights. A convicted felon must first have their civil rights restored by the Governor. Then, they may petition the circuit court in their locality for restoration of firearm rights. This is a complex legal process with no guarantee of success, and it does not apply to federal law, which may still prohibit possession.
What are common defenses to a firearm by felon charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search or seizure under the Fourth Amendment, arguing the defendant did not have knowing possession or control of the firearm, proving the item was not a functional firearm as defined by law, or contesting the validity of the underlying felony conviction. A felon with firearm defense lawyer Manassas can evaluate which defense applies to your case.
Is there a mandatory minimum sentence for this charge in Manassas?
Yes. Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Virginia carries a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison upon conviction, as per Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. This mandatory minimum is a critical reason why securing experienced legal representation from a firearm by felon lawyer Manassas is essential immediately after an arrest.
What should I do if I am charged as a prohibited person with a gun?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Manassas immediately. Exercise your right to remain silent. Your attorney will guide you through the process, protect your rights during questioning, and begin building your defense strategy for proceedings in Manassas General District and Circuit Courts.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Manassas DUI Lawyer or Manassas Family Law Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.