Firearm by Felon Lawyer in Rappahannock County, Virginia
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Rappahannock County is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, punishable by 1-5 years in prison and a permanent felony record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for prohibited persons facing these serious charges. Our firearm by felon lawyer Rappahannock County team offers 24/7 consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Rappahannock County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia law strictly prohibits any person convicted of a felony from possessing, transporting, or carrying any firearm. This charge, often called “felon in possession,” is aggressively prosecuted in Rappahannock County and carries severe consequences that extend far beyond a prison sentence, impacting future employment, housing, and civil rights.
Virginia Law on Firearm Possession by Prohibited Persons
The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. A “convicted felon” includes anyone found guilty of a felony in any state or federal court. The law applies regardless of how the firearm is obtained or how long ago the felony conviction occurred. The charge can be filed even if the firearm was not used in a crime.
- Initial Arrest & Bond Hearing: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. For a Class 6 felony, a secured bond through a bail bondsman is common.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your case begins in Rappahannock County General District Court, where the Commonwealth must show probable cause.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If probable cause is found, the case moves to Rappahannock County Circuit Court for formal arraignment.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and reviews all prosecution evidence.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: The case may resolve through a negotiated plea or proceed to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia’s discretionary sentencing guidelines.
Penalties for a Firearm by Felon Charge in Rappahannock County
In Rappahannock County, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony carrying a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison upon a second conviction, with a maximum penalty of 1 to 5 years in prison and loss of civil rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense (Felon in Possession) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, possible federal charges |
| Subsequent Offense | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years, up to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Enhanced penalties, longer prison term |
| Possession of Firearm while in possession of Schedule I/II drugs | Separate felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years, consecutive to other sentences | Up to $2,500 | Severe mandatory sentence under Va. Code § 18.2-308.4 |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Defense Approach for Prohibited Person Gun Charges
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to building a strong defense. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand how these cases are investigated and argued. We examine every detail, from the initial police stop to the chain of custody of the firearm.
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
Our second attorney on these matters is Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience. His background provides a unique advantage in analyzing police reports, search procedures, and investigation tactics relevant to your firearm by felon defense.
In Rappahannock County, we have documented case results defending clients against serious charges. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firearm by Felon Lawyer Near Rappahannock County
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Rappahannock County, Washington, Sperryville, and Flint Hill. We are accessible via Route 211 and Route 522.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
FAQs: Firearm by Felon Charges in Rappahannock County
What is the penalty for a felon in possession of a firearm in Virginia?
It is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. A second conviction carries a mandatory minimum 2-year prison sentence.
Can a prohibited person ever legally possess a firearm in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia law allows for restoration of firearm rights by the Governor or through a pardon. For certain non-violent felons, rights may be restored by a Circuit Court after a waiting period and petition process. This is complex and requires legal guidance.
What defenses are available for a firearm by felon charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment violation), arguing lack of knowledge or possession of the firearm, mistaken identity, or questioning the validity of the underlying felony conviction. A felon with firearm defense lawyer Rappahannock County can evaluate which strategy applies.
Can this charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, in some cases. Outcomes depend on the evidence, your criminal history, and negotiation. A dismissal may be possible if the search was illegal. A reduction to a misdemeanor or an alternative disposition like a first offender program may be negotiated. Results may vary.
Do I need a lawyer for a firearm by felon charge?
Yes. This is a serious felony with prison time. A prohibited person gun charge lawyer Rappahannock County can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will prosecute aggressively.
If you are facing a firearm charge as a prohibited person in Rappahannock County, contact a firearm by felon lawyer Rappahannock County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. immediately. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Internal Links: For more on criminal defense, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax County. For related charges, see our page on Rappahannock County DUI defense.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. For current guidance, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.