Firearm by Felon Lawyer Powhatan County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearm by felon charge in Powhatan County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, punishable by a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for prohibited persons facing gun charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Powhatan 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 possessing a firearm while in possession of certain controlled substances. The statute is a key tool for prosecutors, and a conviction carries severe, mandatory penalties.
Penalties for a Firearm by Felon Conviction in Powhatan County
In Powhatan County, a firearm by felon conviction is a Class 6 felony carrying a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison, with a maximum penalty of 5 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firearm Possession by Convicted Felon | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory 2-year minimum; 1-5 years max (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently; impacts professional licenses | Permanent felony record; loss of voting rights (until restored); ineligible for public housing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Defense Strategy for Prohibited Person Gun Charges
Our approach as your firearm by felon lawyer Powhatan County begins with a detailed case review. We scrutinize the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the firearm. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, we file a motion to suppress the evidence, which can lead to the charge being dismissed. We also examine whether you were in actual or constructive possession of the firearm and challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove this element beyond a reasonable doubt. For a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Powhatan County, exploring every procedural and factual defense is critical.
- Initial Consultation & Case Analysis: Contact our 24/7 line. We review the arrest details, your criminal history, and the specific allegations.
- Evidence Review & Motion Filing: We obtain all discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney. We file pre-trial motions, such as motions to suppress, if constitutional violations occurred.
- Preliminary Hearing (if applicable): If charged by warrant, a hearing is held in Powhatan County General District Court to determine if probable cause exists to send the felony charge to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court Arraignment & Trial Preparation: The case proceeds to Powhatan County Circuit Court for arraignment. We prepare for trial, negotiating with prosecutors for a favorable resolution up to the trial date.
- Trial or Resolution: We defend you at a jury trial or secure the best possible plea agreement, which may involve reducing the charge to a non-mandatory offense.
Why Choose Our Powhatan County Firearm Defense Lawyers
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+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Powhatan County, we have a documented presence and understand the local judicial field. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who provides invaluable insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases. We offer full representation, from the initial arrest through trial and appeal.
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
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a proven track record in criminal defense. While specific results are unique to each case, our strategic approach focuses on achieving dismissals, reductions, and favorable outcomes. For instance, our attorneys have successfully argued motions to suppress evidence in firearm cases, skilled to charges being dropped. In other matters, we have negotiated for clients to plead to misdemeanor offenses with no mandatory jail time, avoiding a felony conviction. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every client benefits from deep legal experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Powhatan County Firearm by Felon Lawyer
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients in Powhatan County and is accessible via major highways. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only. We serve the communities of Powhatan and surrounding areas.
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. The maximum penalty is 5 years incarceration and a $2,500 fine. A conviction results in a permanent felony record.
Can a felon ever legally own a gun in Virginia?
No, Virginia law imposes a lifetime prohibition on firearm possession for anyone convicted of a felony. The only potential exception is if the felon receives a full pardon from the Governor that expressly restores firearm rights, which is exceedingly rare.
What defenses are available for a firearm by felon charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment violation), arguing the defendant was not in actual or constructive possession of the firearm, or questioning whether the item qualifies as a firearm under the law. An experienced firearm by felon lawyer Powhatan County can identify the best defense strategy.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for this charge?
Powhatan County General District Court holds the preliminary hearing to determine if there is enough evidence for the felony charge to proceed. The actual trial for a firearm by felon charge is held before a jury in Powhatan County Circuit Court.
Why do I need a lawyer for a prohibited person gun charge?
A firearm by felon charge carries a mandatory prison sentence. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will vigorously prosecute. A prohibited person gun charge lawyer Powhatan County from our firm can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work to avoid the severe mandatory penalties associated with a conviction.
Related Legal Resources in Powhatan County
If you are facing other charges, our firm provides full legal support. We are also experienced DUI defense lawyers in Powhatan County. For broader legal context, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also represent clients in neighboring jurisdictions like Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.