Firearm by Felon Lawyer Shenandoah County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Shenandoah County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, punishable by a mandatory minimum of two years in prison. As a firearm by felon lawyer Shenandoah County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending prohibited person gun charges.
Virginia Law on Firearm Possession by Convicted Felons
Virginia law strictly prohibits any person who has been convicted of a felony from knowingly possessing, transporting, or carrying any firearm. This statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, is a primary tool for prosecutors in prohibited person gun charge cases. The law applies regardless of how the firearm is obtained and covers both actual and constructive possession. A conviction carries severe, mandatory penalties that significantly impact your future.
Last verified: April 2026 | Shenandoah County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Penalties for a Firearm by Felon Conviction in Shenandoah County
In Shenandoah County, a conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony, carrying a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years; Up to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment/housing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Approach to Defending Firearm by Felon Charges
Our defense strategy begins with a meticulous examination of the facts. We scrutinize the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the firearm. If your constitutional rights under the Fourth Amendment were violated, we file a motion to suppress the evidence. We also investigate whether you were in actual or constructive possession of the firearm and challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Initial Consultation & Case Analysis: We review all charges, police reports, and evidence with you.
- Investigation & Motion Filing: Our team investigates the arrest circumstances and files pre-trial motions, such as motions to suppress.
- Case Strategy Development: We build a defense strategy based on the evidence, which may involve challenging possession or negotiating a resolution.
- Court Representation: We provide aggressive representation at all hearings in Shenandoah County General District and Circuit Courts.
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 & Firm Authority
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. In Shenandoah County, we have a documented record of handling complex criminal cases. Our approach is collaborative; for instance, Mr. Sris, with his background amending Virginia law, and attorneys like Bryan Block, with deep investigative insight, work together to assess cases from multiple angles.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Shenandoah County Firearm by Felon Lawyer
If you are a felon with firearm charges in Shenandoah County, immediate legal help is essential. Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients throughout the valley.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve clients in Woodstock, Edinburg, Strasburg, Mount Jackson, Toms Brook, and New Market. Our location is accessible via I-81, Route 11, and other major highways.
Firearm by Felon Defense FAQs in Shenandoah County
What does “possession” mean in a firearm by felon charge?
It depends. Virginia law recognizes both actual possession (the firearm is on your person) and constructive possession (you have control or dominion over it, like in your home or car). The prosecution must prove you knowingly possessed the firearm.
Can a felon ever legally possess a firearm in Virginia?
No. Virginia law provides no pathway for a convicted felon to restore firearm rights at the state level. Federal law also imposes a lifetime ban. A pardon from the Governor is the only potential, though exceedingly rare, exception.
What are common defenses to a prohibited person gun charge?
Defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment violation), arguing lack of knowledge or possession, mistaken identity, or questioning the validity of the prior felony conviction. A skilled prohibited person gun charge lawyer Shenandoah County can identify the best defense for your case.
What court handles firearm by felon cases in Shenandoah County?
Felony charges begin with a preliminary hearing in Shenandoah County General District Court. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is sent to Shenandoah County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Is there a mandatory minimum sentence?
Yes. A conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carries a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison. The judge has no discretion to suspend or reduce this minimum term.
Related Legal Information
For more on Virginia criminal law, visit the Virginia Courts website. If you need a firearm by felon lawyer Shenandoah County, our team is ready to help. We also assist with other Shenandoah County criminal defense matters and federal charges. For a broader view, see our Virginia criminal defense hub.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.