Firearm by Felon Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Henrico 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 Henrico County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending prohibited persons.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
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 prohibition is permanent and extends to ammunition. A separate charge exists for possession of a firearm while in possession of a controlled substance under § 18.2-308.4. These cases are prosecuted aggressively by the Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and are heard in the Henrico County Circuit Court.
Official Legal Resources
Defending a Firearm by Felon Charge in Henrico County
Building a defense requires immediate action. The prosecution must prove you knowingly possessed the firearm and that your prior conviction qualifies under the statute. Common investigative issues include illegal searches, lack of knowledge, or mistaken identity. In Henrico County, these cases often originate from traffic stops or probation searches.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators. Contact a firearm by felon lawyer Henrico County immediately to protect your rights.
- Case Assessment & Investigation: Your attorney will review the search, seizure, and arrest details to identify constitutional violations or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence obtained through an illegal search or statements taken in violation of your Miranda rights.
- Negotiation & Trial Strategy: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare a strong trial defense focusing on possession and knowledge.
- Sentencing Mitigation: If a conviction occurs, your attorney will advocate for the lowest possible sentence, presenting mitigating factors to the judge.
Potential Penalties for a Firearm by Felon Conviction
In Henrico County, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony carrying a mandatory minimum sentence 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 firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the severe consequences of a firearm by felon conviction and provide a focused, strategic defense. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we fight relentlessly for every client.
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 & Client Advocacy
In Henrico County, our firearm by felon lawyer Henrico County team has achieved documented results defending clients. Our approach involves meticulously analyzing police reports, challenging the legality of searches, and negotiating with prosecutors. For instance, our team, including seasoned attorney Mr. Sris, has successfully argued motions to suppress evidence, skilled to reduced charges or dismissals in complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firearm by Felon Lawyer Near Henrico County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Henrico County courts (4301 East Parham Road). We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295, near landmarks like Short Pump Town Center and the Innsbrook Corporate Center. We serve the communities of Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville.
Availability: 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 is the penalty for a felon in possession of a firearm in Virginia?
It is a Class 6 felony with a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison, a maximum of 5 years, and a fine up to $2,500 under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2.
Can a prohibited person ever legally own a firearm in Virginia?
It depends. A convicted felon may have their firearm rights restored by the Governor of Virginia or through a pardon. This is a complex process separate from having civil rights restored and requires specific legal petitions.
What if I didn’t know the firearm was in my car or home?
Knowledge is a key element the prosecution must prove. A defense can argue you were unaware of the firearm’s presence. Success depends on the specific facts, such as who owned the vehicle or controlled the premises.
Does a prior misdemeanor conviction make me a prohibited person?
No. The prohibition applies specifically to convictions for felonies and certain domestic violence misdemeanors. A standard misdemeanor conviction does not trigger the firearm ban under § 18.2-308.2.
What should I do if I’m arrested for this charge?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not answer questions or make statements. Contact a firearm by felon lawyer Henrico County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub, or our pages for Chesterfield County Criminal Defense and Henrico County DUI Defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.