Firearm by Felon Lawyer Colonial Heights — Defending Prohibited Persons
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Colonial Heights 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 Colonial Heights, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for prohibited persons.
Virginia Law on Firearm Possession by Felons
Last verified: April 2026 | Colonial Heights General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia law strictly prohibits any person convicted of a felony from possessing, transporting, or carrying any firearm. This prohibition is codified in Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. The statute applies regardless of how the firearm was obtained and includes both actual and constructive possession. A felon with firearm defense lawyer Colonial Heights must understand that the Commonwealth must prove you knowingly possessed the firearm and that you have a prior felony conviction. The law firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting and information systems provides an advantage in cases involving complex evidence.
External Legal Resources
For the official state statute, refer to the Virginia Legislative Information System (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2). Court information and procedures can be found on the Colonial Heights General District Court website.
Local Defense Strategy for a Prohibited Person Gun Charge
In Colonial Heights, prosecutors from the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office vigorously pursue firearm by felon charges. A key local procedural fact is that these cases often originate from traffic stops or probation searches. The defense for a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Colonial Heights often involves challenging the legality of the search, the proof of possession, or the validity of the underlying felony conviction.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will file a motion to suppress evidence if the search was unlawful.
- Your lawyer will scrutinize the Commonwealth’s evidence linking you to the firearm.
- Explore potential defenses or plea negotiations based on the case’s weaknesses.
- Prepare for a preliminary hearing in General District Court and potential jury trial in Circuit Court.
Penalties for a Firearm by Felon Conviction
In Colonial Heights, a conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 2 years, with a maximum of 5 years for a first offense, and is a Class 6 felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (First Offense) | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory min. 2 years, up to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Felony record, probation, possible federal charges |
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (Subsequent Offense) | Class 5 Felony | Mandatory min. 5 years, up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Enhanced penalties, longer probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Firearm by Felon Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and 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 with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how these cases are built and can be challenged.
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 Colonial Heights results are part of our broader record, our firm-wide track includes favorable resolutions in serious felony cases. For example, we have successfully negotiated reductions from felony to misdemeanor charges and secured dismissals where evidence was insufficient. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, maintains a selective caseload to ensure deep involvement in complex matters like firearm charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firearm by Felon Lawyer Near Colonial Heights, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients in Colonial Heights and is accessible via I-95 and Route 1. We are a local firearm by felon lawyer near Colonial Heights Courthouse on Boulevard. We serve the community of Colonial Heights. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Firearm by Felon Charges
What does “constructive possession” of a firearm mean for a felon?
Yes. It means the firearm was found in a place you controlled (like your car or home), and the prosecution can prove you knew it was there and had the ability to use it, even if it wasn’t on your person.
Can a felon ever legally possess a firearm in Virginia again?
It depends. Virginia law provides a process for restoration of firearm rights for certain non-violent felons, but it is complex and requires a petition to the Circuit Court. Federal law may still prohibit possession. A felon with firearm defense lawyer Colonial Heights can advise on your specific eligibility.
What are common defenses to a firearm by felon charge?
Common defenses include challenging an illegal search (Fourth Amendment), arguing lack of knowledge or possession, questioning the validity of the prior felony conviction, or proving the item was not a functional firearm. A prohibited person gun charge lawyer Colonial Heights will identify the best defense for your case.
Is there a mandatory minimum sentence for this charge?
Yes. A first offense under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carries a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison. A second or subsequent conviction carries a mandatory minimum of five years.
What should I do if I’m charged as a felon with a firearm?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact a firearm by felon lawyer Colonial Heights. Your lawyer will protect your rights, analyze the evidence against you, and begin building your defense strategy for court.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County and Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI cases and family law matters in Colonial Heights.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.