Gun Crime Lawyer Loudoun County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearms offense in Loudoun County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict gun laws, such as Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (possession by a convicted felon). Convictions can lead to mandatory prison time and a permanent felony record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Loudoun County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Gun Crime Laws and Penalties
Virginia law treats firearms offenses severely, with many charges classified as felonies. A common charge is possession of a firearm by a convicted felon under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, which is a Class 6 felony. Other offenses include carrying a concealed weapon without a permit (§ 18.2-308) and brandishing a firearm (§ 18.2-282). The specific statute applied depends on the alleged conduct and the defendant’s criminal history.
For a gun charge defense lawyer Loudoun County, understanding the nuances of these laws is critical. Defenses may challenge the legality of a search, question whether the item was a functional firearm, or argue lack of knowledge or possession.
Official Legal Resources
You can review the full text of Virginia’s firearms statutes at the Virginia General Assembly website. For local court procedures, visit the Loudoun County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Firearms Cases in Loudoun
Firearms offenses in Loudoun County typically begin with an arrest and an initial appearance before a magistrate. For felony charges, the case starts in Loudoun County General District Court for a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. If bound over, the case proceeds to Loudoun County Circuit Court for trial. Misdemeanor gun charges may be tried entirely in General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Loudoun County prosecutes these cases aggressively.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or upon receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all police reports, evidence, and witness statements.
- Pre-trial motions may be filed to challenge the legality of the stop, search, or seizure.
- Negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney may occur to seek a reduction or dismissal.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
In Loudoun County, a conviction for a felony firearms offense like possession by a felon carries 1 to 5 years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine at the jury’s discretion.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Felony record, ineligible for many jobs/housing |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon w/o Permit (Va. Code § 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Potential loss of concealed carry permit | Misdemeanor record |
| Brandishing a Firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-282) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Misdemeanor record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Gun Charge Defense
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 achieving favorable outcomes for our clients by building strong, evidence-based defenses.
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
Our firm’s secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides an advantage in cases involving technical or financial evidence.
Documented Case Results in Loudoun County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 42 documented criminal defense results in Loudoun County, with 35 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 5 reduced or amended, and 2 other favorable outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Gun Crime Lawyer Near Loudoun County
Our Ashburn location serves clients at the Loudoun County courts. We are a local gun crime lawyer Loudoun County residents can consult. We serve Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, South Riding, Brambleton, Aldie, Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, and Round Hill.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Ashburn/Loudoun
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza Suite 400 Room No 403, Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Firearms Offense Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Loudoun County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Loudoun County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Loudoun County General District Court (18 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176). 42 documented results: 35 dismissed/not guilty, 5 reduced/amended, 2 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate)
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Loudoun County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Loudoun County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Loudoun County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Loudoun County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Loudoun County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Loudoun County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Loudoun County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Loudoun County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Loudoun County?
Loudoun County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Loudoun County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related matters like DUI defense in Loudoun County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.