Alexandria Felon in Possession Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A felon in possession charge in Alexandria is a serious federal or state offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) or Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, carrying up to 10 years in prison. As a prohibited person, your prior record escalates penalties. A skilled felon in possession lawyer Alexandria from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Law on Firearm Possession by Prohibited Persons
Virginia law strictly prohibits individuals convicted of felonies from possessing firearms. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. This law makes it a felony for any person who has been convicted of a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess or transport any firearm or ammunition for a firearm. A conviction is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the firearm is possessed “on or about his person,” the mandatory minimum sentence is two years in prison.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria Circuit Court & U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our team’s combined experience exceeds 120 years, providing a deep understanding of the interplay between state and federal firearm laws.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the Virginia statute, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For federal law, see 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) via the Legal Information Institute. Local procedures can be found on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Local Defense Strategy in Alexandria Courts
Defending a felon with firearm charge in Alexandria requires handling either the Alexandria Circuit Court for state charges or the nearby federal courthouse. Prosecutors in these jurisdictions treat these cases severely due to public safety priorities. An effective defense often hinges on challenging the legality of the search that discovered the firearm or arguing a lack of knowledge or intent to possess.
- Case Assessment: Immediately after arrest, your attorney will secure all police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Motion to Suppress: If the firearm was found during a search, your lawyer will file a motion to suppress evidence, arguing the search violated your Fourth Amendment rights.
- Intent Defense: Your attorney will investigate whether the government can prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the firearm, which is a required element of the crime.
- Plea Negotiations: If the evidence is strong, your lawyer will negotiate with prosecutors for a reduced charge, such as a misdemeanor, or seek alternatives like a diversion program.
- Trial Preparation: If no fair plea is offered, your attorney will prepare a vigorous trial defense, challenging witness credibility and the prosecution’s evidence.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In Alexandria, a felon in possession conviction is a Class 6 felony under state law, carrying 1-5 years in prison, but federal charges can result in a decade-long sentence.
| Charge | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Firearms Rights | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession (State) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or 12 mos. jail)* | Up to $2,500 | Permanent loss | Felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Felon in Possession (Federal) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Permanent loss | Federal prison, supervised release, loss of federal benefits |
*Mandatory minimum 2-year prison sentence if firearm was on person.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive defense in both state and federal courts. We have a documented record of defending individuals accused of serious firearm offenses.
Documented Case Results
Our defense team has successfully defended numerous individuals facing serious weapon charges. In one case, we secured a dismissal for a client charged under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 after proving the search of his vehicle was unconstitutional. In another, our negotiations resulted in a felony charge being reduced to a misdemeanor with no jail time.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Alexandria Defense Resources
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Alexandria and surrounding communities.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our firm is positioned to defend clients in Alexandria. We are familiar with the procedures at the Alexandria Circuit Court and the federal courthouse. We serve clients from neighborhoods like Old Town, Del Ray, and West End. If you need a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Alexandria, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Felon in Possession Charges: Frequently Asked Questions
Can a felon in possession charge be dropped in Alexandria?
Yes. Charges can be dropped if the defense successfully files a motion to suppress evidence from an illegal search, proves a lack of intent or knowledge, or demonstrates mistaken identity. An experienced felon in possession lawyer Alexandria can identify these weaknesses.
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
It depends on the circumstances. State charges are filed under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 in Alexandria Circuit Court. Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) are filed in U.S. District Court and typically involve firearms that have traveled in interstate commerce, skilled to longer potential sentences under federal guidelines.
What are the best defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment violation), arguing the defendant did not knowingly possess the firearm, proving the firearm was not operational, or showing that the defendant’s civil rights had been restored, making possession legal.
Can I ever own a gun again after this charge?
No, not under current federal law and Virginia law. A felony conviction for this offense results in a lifetime prohibition on possessing firearms. Restoration of firearms rights is extremely rare and typically requires a gubernatorial pardon.
Should I speak to the police if I am investigated?
No. You have the right to remain silent. You should politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney. Anything you say can be used to establish knowledge and intent, which are key elements the prosecution must prove.
If you are facing investigation or charges, contact a felon in possession lawyer Alexandria immediately. Early intervention is critical. For related legal issues, you may also need a Virginia firearm lawyer or a federal criminal defense lawyer in Virginia. For charges in other areas, see our page for a felon in possession lawyer in Arlington.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Alexandria cases are handled by our Virginia felon in possession practice, where the whole process is set out.