Gun Crime Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearms charge in Arlington County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict gun laws. A conviction can mean mandatory prison time, a permanent felony record, and the loss of your right to own firearms. As a gun crime lawyer Arlington County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Gun Laws and Penalties
Virginia law categorizes numerous offenses related to the illegal possession, use, or carrying of firearms. These are primarily found under Va. Code Title 18.2, Chapter 7 (Weapons). Charges range from misdemeanors to serious felonies with mandatory minimum sentences.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
For example, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of 2 years for a second offense. Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit (Va. Code § 18.2-308) is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The specific penalties depend heavily on the statute violated and the defendant’s prior record.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2, Chapter 7 — Weapons (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Arlington County General District Court Website
Defending a Firearms Charge in Arlington County
Arlington County prosecutors take gun charges very seriously. The process begins at the Arlington County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings for felonies. Felony trials are held in Arlington County Circuit Court. A strong defense often involves challenging the legality of the search that discovered the weapon, the chain of custody of the evidence, or the intent element of the charge.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: We analyze the police report, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Investigation & Motion Filing: We investigate the circumstances of the stop, search, or seizure. If Fourth Amendment rights were violated, we file a motion to suppress the evidence.
- Negotiation Strategy: We engage with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges, potentially to a non-gun-related offense.
- Trial Preparation: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, we prepare a full defense for trial, challenging the prosecution’s evidence and witnesses.
- Sentencing Advocacy: If a conviction occurs, we advocate for the most lenient sentence possible, presenting mitigating factors to the judge.
Potential Penalties for Firearms Offenses
In Arlington County, gun charges carry severe penalties, including mandatory prison time for certain felonies and permanent loss of firearm rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (2-year mandatory min. for 2nd offense) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent loss of firearm rights | Felony record; ineligible for expungement |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon w/o Permit (Va. Code § 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Potential driver’s license suspension | Misdemeanor record |
| Brandishing a Firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-282) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Can be enhanced if on school property |
| Use of Firearm in Commission of Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1) | Separate Felony | Mandatory 3 years (consecutive to other sentences) | N/A | Permanent loss of firearm rights | “Stacked” mandatory sentence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Gun 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 firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we use every available resource and strategy to protect your rights and future when you are facing a serious gun charge.
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
Documented Case Results in Arlington County
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients facing criminal charges in Arlington County. While every case is unique, our approach is consistent: thorough investigation, aggressive advocacy, and strategic negotiation. For instance, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges such as Destruction of Property and Fare Evasion in Arlington County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His experience amending Virginia law (Va. Code § 20-107.3) demonstrates a deep understanding of the legislative process that governs the very statutes used in prosecution.
Gun Crime Defense Serving Arlington County
Our Arlington location is strategically positioned to serve clients at the Arlington County courts. We are your local gun charge defense lawyer Arlington County, near the Courthouse area, serving Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gun Charges in Arlington
What should I do if I’m arrested on a gun charge in Arlington County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with your gun crime lawyer Arlington County. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for 24/7 assistance.
Can I get a concealed carry permit if I have a prior gun charge?
It depends. A conviction for most firearms offenses will permanently disqualify you from obtaining a permit in Virginia. Even some misdemeanor convictions can be a bar. An attorney can review your specific record and the details of the charge to advise on your eligibility.
What is the difference between state and federal gun charges?
State charges are prosecuted by the Arlington Commonwealth’s Attorney under Virginia law. Federal charges are brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office (often from the Eastern District of Virginia) under U.S. Code and typically involve interstate commerce, prior federal convictions, or crimes on federal property. Federal penalties are often more severe.
Is there a “first offender” program for gun crimes in Virginia?
No. Virginia’s first offender programs generally do not apply to firearms offenses. Certain felony gun charges carry mandatory minimum prison sentences that cannot be suspended. This makes having an experienced firearms offense defense lawyer Arlington County essential from the very start.
Can a gun charge be expunged from my record in Virginia?
No. Virginia law prohibits the expungement of convictions for most criminal offenses, including virtually all firearms-related convictions. Only charges that result in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi are eligible for expungement, highlighting the critical importance of fighting the charge effectively.
Related Legal Services in Arlington County: If you are facing other charges, we also provide representation for DUI, family law, and reckless driving matters. For more information on our statewide criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.