Gun Crime Lawyer Virginia — Defending Your Rights and Future
A gun charge in Virginia is a serious matter prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, with penalties ranging from a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison for a felon in possession to life sentences for certain armed offenses. As a Gun Crime Lawyer Virginia, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Courts | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia’s firearms laws are among the strictest in the nation. A conviction can result in lengthy prison terms, the permanent loss of your right to own a firearm, and a felony record that affects employment and housing. The specific statute governing your case, such as Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 for possession by a convicted felon, dictates the mandatory penalties. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to building your defense.
Official Virginia Gun Law Resources
Understanding the law is the first step. You can review the official Virginia statutes on firearms at the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2). For court procedures and locations, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
Virginia Gun Charge Defense Strategy
Successfully defending a firearms offense requires a case-specific approach. In Virginia courts, prosecutors aggressively pursue gun charges. A common procedural fact is that motions to suppress evidence based on an unlawful search are often critical. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, the firearm may be excluded from evidence, skilled to a dismissal.
- Secure immediate legal representation before any interview with police.
- Your attorney will file a motion for discovery to obtain all police reports and evidence.
- A motion to suppress evidence may be filed if the search or seizure was illegal.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor, seeking dismissal or reduction of charges.
- If no acceptable plea is offered, your attorney will prepare for a jury trial.
- If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible under the law.
Potential Penalties for Virginia Gun Crimes
In Virginia, gun crimes carry severe penalties, including long mandatory prison sentences 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 | Mandatory minimum 2 years, up to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Permanent loss of firearm rights |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon Without Permit (Va. Code § 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Forfeiture of weapon |
| Use of Firearm in Commission of Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1) | Separate Felony | Mandatory minimum 3 years, consecutive to other sentences | N/A | N/A | Enhanced penalty |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Virginia Gun Crime Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we use every available legal strategy. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how the other side builds cases. We have a documented record of achieving favorable results in complex cases.
Kristen M. Fisher, Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Kristen Fisher is a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland who now dedicates 75% of her practice to litigation in Virginia and Maryland courts. Admitted to the Virginia and Maryland State Bars, her prosecutorial background provides critical insight into constructing defenses against gun charges. She focuses on criminal defense, including firearms offenses.
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 Gun and Firearms Cases
Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While every case is unique, our experience spans a wide range of firearms charges. For instance, our team has successfully argued motions to suppress evidence, skilled to dismissed charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Gun Crime Lawyer Near Fairfax County, Virginia
Our Fairfax location serves clients across Northern Virginia, including Fairfax County. We are accessible via I-66, I-495, and Route 50. If you need a firearms offense defense lawyer Virginia, our team is here to help. We serve communities like Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, and Annandale.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Virginia Gun Charges
What should I do if I am arrested on a gun charge in Virginia?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with a gun charge defense lawyer Virginia. Anything you say can be used against you.
Can a gun charge be reduced in Virginia?
It depends. The prosecutor’s willingness to reduce a charge often hinges on the strength of the evidence and your defense attorney’s negotiations. Factors like a clean record, the circumstances of the arrest, and legal challenges to the evidence can lead to reductions.
What is the mandatory minimum for a gun charge in Virginia?
Mandatory minimums vary. For a convicted felon in possession of a firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2), it is 2 years in prison. For using a firearm in a felony (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1), it is 3 years, consecutive to the sentence for the underlying felony.
Will I lose my right to own a gun forever?
Yes, for most felony gun convictions. A felony conviction in Virginia results in the permanent loss of your right to possess a firearm. Some misdemeanor convictions can also lead to a loss of rights for a period of time.
How can a lawyer help with a firearms offense?
A lawyer can challenge the legality of the stop, search, or seizure that led to the discovery of the firearm. They can negotiate with the prosecutor, file motions to dismiss, and represent you at trial. An experienced firearms offense defense lawyer Virginia understands the nuances of state and federal law.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.