Gun Crime Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearms charge in Arlington County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict gun laws. As a Class 1 misdemeanor or felony, a conviction can mean jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing gun charges in Arlington County General District Court and Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Gun Laws and Penalties
Virginia law categorizes firearms offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Common charges include possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2), carrying a concealed weapon without a permit (§ 18.2-308), and brandishing a firearm (§ 18.2-282). The classification and penalties depend heavily on the specific statute violated and the defendant’s criminal history. A gun charge defense lawyer Arlington County can analyze the details of your case to identify the applicable law and potential consequences.
In Arlington County, a conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony, carrying 1 to 5 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense (Va. Code) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession by Convicted Felon (§ 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Permanent felony record |
| Carrying Concealed w/o Permit (§ 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Potential permit denial | Criminal record |
| Brandishing a Firearm (§ 18.2-282) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Possible enhanced charges if used in felony |
| Reckless Handling of Firearm (§ 18.2-56.1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Can be charged as felony if injury results |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Court Process for Firearms Offenses in Arlington
Arlington County General District Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd) handles all misdemeanor gun charge trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Arlington County Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. For felony charges, after a finding of probable cause in General District Court, the case is certified to Arlington County Circuit Court for a jury trial. A firearms offense defense lawyer Arlington County with experience in both courts is critical to handle this process.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest. Your attorney can appear for you.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure, which is a common defense in gun cases.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges, potentially to a non-gun-related offense.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial in General District Court or a jury trial in Circuit Court for felonies.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for the most favorable sentence, which may include alternatives to incarceration.
- Appeal/Expungement: Your attorney can file an appeal or, if the case is dismissed, petition for expungement of the charge from your record.
Our Experience with Arlington County Gun Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of defending clients in Arlington County courts. Our approach involves a meticulous review of police reports, witness statements, and the circumstances of the seizure to protect your rights.
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 team includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, whose 15 years of law enforcement experience provide a unique advantage in analyzing police procedure and investigation tactics in firearms cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
In Arlington County, we have achieved favorable outcomes for clients facing various charges. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Gun Crime Lawyer Near Arlington County, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients throughout the county and is accessible for meetings regarding cases at the Arlington County Courthouse. We represent individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Firearms Charge Defense FAQs in Arlington County
What should I do if I’m arrested on a gun charge in Arlington County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with a gun crime lawyer Arlington County. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for 24/7 assistance.
Can evidence from an illegal search be thrown out in my gun case?
Yes. If the police lacked probable cause or a valid warrant, a firearms offense defense lawyer Arlington County can file a motion to suppress the evidence. If granted, the case is often dismissed because the prosecution cannot proceed without it.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and felony gun charge?
It depends on the specific statute. For example, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony. Felonies carry longer potential prison sentences and create a permanent felony record.
Can a gun charge be reduced or dismissed in Arlington County?
Yes, through pre-trial negotiations or successful motions. An experienced gun charge defense lawyer Arlington County may negotiate a reduction to a lesser, non-firearms offense or seek dismissal based on procedural errors, lack of evidence, or violations of your constitutional rights.
How long does a gun case take in Arlington County courts?
A misdemeanor case in General District Court may be resolved in 2-3 months. A felony case, which moves from General District to Circuit Court, can take 6 months to a year or more, depending on complexity, motions, and trial scheduling.
For more information on Virginia gun laws, see the official Virginia General Assembly website. For Arlington County court information, visit the Arlington County General District Court website.
If you are facing gun charges, do not delay. Virginia criminal defense lawyers at SRIS, P.C. are ready to help. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Alexandria. For other legal needs in Arlington, consider our DUI defense or family law services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.