Gun Crime Lawyer Chesterfield County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearms charge in Chesterfield County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict gun laws. A conviction can mean years in prison, heavy fines, and a permanent felony record. As your gun crime lawyer Chesterfield County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. We have documented results in Chesterfield County courts. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Gun Crime Laws and Penalties
Virginia law categorizes firearms offenses with severe penalties. The primary statute governing many charges is Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, which prohibits possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. This is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 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. Other common charges include carrying a concealed weapon without a permit (§ 18.2-308) and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony (§ 18.2-53.1), which carries a mandatory minimum sentence.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2, Chapter 7 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Chesterfield County General District Court website
Defending a Firearms Charge in Chesterfield County
Successfully defending a gun charge requires immediate action and a detailed understanding of both the law and local court procedures. In Chesterfield County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that many firearms charges are felonies, meaning your case will start in Chesterfield County General District Court for a preliminary hearing before potentially moving to Circuit Court for a jury trial. The right to a jury trial is absolute for any offense carrying jail time.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Contact a gun charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County immediately to protect your rights.
- Case Assessment & Investigation: Your attorney will review all evidence, including the legality of any search or seizure, witness statements, and the firearm’s history.
- Strategic Motion Filing: File pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the prosecution’s case before trial.
- Negotiation or Trial Preparation: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Firearms Offenses
In Chesterfield County, gun crimes carry severe penalties ranging from mandatory minimum prison sentences for use in a felony to years of incarceration for possession by a felon.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Permanent felony record |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (without permit) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible loss of permit eligibility | Criminal record |
| Use of Firearm in Commission of Felony | Separate Felony | Mandatory minimum 3 years (additional) | Court discretion | N/A | Sentence runs consecutively |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Firearms Offense Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a gun charge and provide a focused, case-specific defense strategy. Our team includes attorneys with deep knowledge of Virginia’s firearms laws and Chesterfield County court procedures.
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
Documented Case Experience
Our firm has a documented record of handling complex criminal cases. While every case is unique, our approach is thorough and strategic. For instance, our team has successfully defended clients against charges where the legality of a search was central to the case. Another attorney with our firm, Mr. Sris, brings his former prosecutor experience and multi-state practice to bear on complex legal challenges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Gun Crime Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1, serving communities including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Firearms Charge Defense FAQs
What should I do if I’m arrested on a gun charge in Chesterfield County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case or the firearm with police. Contact a firearms offense defense lawyer Chesterfield County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Can a gun charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the specific charge, your criminal history, and the evidence. Some felony firearm charges may be negotiated down to a misdemeanor or amended to a lesser charge. An experienced gun crime lawyer Chesterfield County can evaluate the possibilities in your case.
What is the penalty for a first-time gun charge in Virginia?
Penalties vary widely by charge. A first-time charge of carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail). Possession of a firearm by a felon is a Class 6 felony (1-5 years), even for a first offense of that specific charge.
How long does a gun case take in Chesterfield County?
A misdemeanor case in General District Court may be resolved in 2-3 months. A felony case will start with a preliminary hearing in GDC within a few months, then proceed to Circuit Court, potentially taking 6 months to a year or more for a jury trial.
Do I need a lawyer for a gun charge?
Yes. The consequences of a conviction are too severe to face without experienced representation. A gun charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County knows the laws, local prosecutors, and court procedures necessary to protect your rights and future.
Related Legal Resources
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Henrico County
- DUI Lawyer in Chesterfield County
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.