Felon in Possession Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
A felon in possession charge in Manassas is a serious felony under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) and Virginia law (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2), carrying up to 5 years in prison. As a prohibited person, you need immediate legal help. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for individuals facing these charges.
Understanding Felon in Possession Laws in Virginia
Both federal and Virginia statutes make it illegal for certain individuals to possess firearms. These laws target “prohibited persons,” a category that includes convicted felons, individuals subject to certain protective orders, and those adjudicated as mentally incompetent. In Virginia, the primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. This law makes it a Class 6 felony for any person who has been convicted of a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess or transport any firearm. The prosecution must prove you were a convicted felon, you possessed a firearm, and you did so knowingly.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County Circuit Court & Manassas City General District Court | Virginia General Assembly.
External Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) on the Legal Information Institute’s .gov mirror. For local court procedures, visit the Prince William County Circuit Court website.
Defense Strategies for a Prohibited Person Gun Charge
A strong defense requires a detailed examination of the case. A prohibited person gun charge lawyer Manassas will first scrutinize the search and seizure. If the firearm was found during an illegal search, the evidence may be suppressed. Second, we examine whether you actually “possessed” the firearm—actual physical possession is different from constructive possession, which requires proof of dominion and control. Third, we challenge whether you had knowledge of the firearm’s presence. Finally, we investigate potential restoration of rights or pardon issues that may affect your prohibited status.
- Initial Case Review: Immediately after arrest, your attorney will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Motion to Suppress: If the firearm was seized without a warrant or probable cause, your lawyer will file a motion to suppress the evidence, which can lead to a case dismissal.
- Challenge Possession & Knowledge: Your defense will argue the prosecution cannot prove you knowingly possessed the firearm, especially in cases of constructive possession (e.g., a gun found in a shared car or home).
- Negotiation & Trial Prep: Your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or alternative sentencing. If a fair plea isn’t offered, we prepare a vigorous trial defense focusing on reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for a Felon in Possession Conviction
In Manassas, a felon in possession conviction is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm (First Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years in prison OR up to 12 months in jail | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently; impacts professional licenses. | Federal prosecution possible; creates a new felony record; impacts housing and employment. |
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm (Subsequent Offense or with Violent Prior) | Class 6 Felony (enhanced) | Mandatory minimum 2 years in prison, up to 5 years. | Up to $2,500 | Permanent loss of firearm rights. | Likely federal prosecution under Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA) with 15-year mandatory minimum. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the severe, life-altering consequences of a new felony conviction and fight to protect your future. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to relentless defense.
Case Results for Firearm Charges
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results in firearm cases. In one case, we successfully argued a motion to suppress a firearm found during an unlawful vehicle search, skilled to a full dismissal of felon in possession charges. In another, we negotiated a reduction from a felony to a misdemeanor for a client, avoiding prison time. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with decades of experience. His strategic insight is invaluable in building defense theories for prohibited person cases.
Local Defense for Manassas Residents
Our Ashburn location is approximately 15 miles from the Prince William County Courthouse in Manassas, accessible via VA-28 S and I-66. We serve as your dedicated felon with firearm defense lawyer Manassas for clients near the Manassas Museum and the surrounding communities of Centreville, Gainesville, and Haymarket.
Available 24/7 for phone consultations.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (571) 279-0110
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes someone a “prohibited person” under Virginia law?
Yes. In Virginia, a “prohibited person” includes anyone convicted of a felony, anyone adjudicated delinquent as a juvenile for an offense that would be a felony if committed by an adult, and any non-U.S. citizen illegally or unlawfully in the United States. Certain misdemeanor domestic violence convictions also create a prohibition.
Can a felon ever legally own a gun in Virginia again?
It depends. A convicted felon’s firearm rights can only be restored through an explicit pardon from the Governor of Virginia that specifically restores firearm rights, or through a restoration of rights order from the sentencing court if the felony conviction was for certain non-violent offenses. This is a complex legal process requiring a skilled attorney.
What is the difference between actual and constructive possession?
Actual possession means the firearm is on your person (e.g., in your hand or pocket). Constructive possession means you have knowledge of the firearm and the ability and intention to control it, even if it’s not on you (e.g., in a shared bedroom or car glovebox). The prosecution must prove knowledge and control for constructive possession.
If the gun wasn’t mine, can I still be charged?
Yes. You can be charged if the prosecution can prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the firearm, either actually or constructively. Simply being near a gun owned by someone else is not enough, but if you had control over the area where it was found, you could be charged. A strong defense attacks the proof of knowledge and control.
Should I talk to the police if I’m investigated for this charge?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney. Anything you say can be used to establish the “knowingly” element of the charge. Contact a felon in possession lawyer Manassas before speaking to any law enforcement officer.
Related Pages: If you are facing other serious charges, you may need a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer. For charges originating in a different Northern Virginia court, see our Felon in Possession Lawyer Fairfax page. For an overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.