Gun Crime Lawyer in Falls Church, Virginia — Your Defense Strategy
A gun crime charge in Falls Church is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict firearm laws. As a Gun Crime Lawyer Falls Church, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against charges like possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) or carrying a concealed weapon.
Virginia Gun Crime Laws and Penalties
Virginia categorizes firearm offenses with severe penalties. Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon 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. Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. These cases are heard in the Falls Church General District Court for preliminary matters and the Falls Church Circuit Court for felony trials.
Last verified: April 2026 | Falls Church General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s firearm statutes, review the Virginia Code Title 18.2, Chapter 7. For court procedures and locations, visit the Falls Church General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Gun Charges in Falls Church
Falls Church gun crime cases begin with an arrest or summons. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Falls Church prosecutes these charges aggressively. A key local procedural fact is that while misdemeanor concealed weapon charges are tried in General District Court, felony firearm charges start with a preliminary hearing there before moving to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Initial Appearance: You will be arraigned at Falls Church General District Court (300 Park Avenue). The judge will read the charges and address bond.
- Secure Counsel: Retain a Gun Crime Legal Counsel Falls Church immediately. Early analysis of search and seizure issues can be case-determinative.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): For felony charges, a hearing is held in GDC to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence (police reports, lab tests) and file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial: Misdemeanors are bench trials in GDC. Felonies are jury trials in Falls Church Circuit Court, where the burden of proof is “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your attorney argues for mitigated sentencing. You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction to Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Gun Crimes
In Falls Church, gun crime penalties range from 12 months in jail for a misdemeanor to 5 years in prison for a Class 6 felony, with mandatory minimums for certain offenses.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; loss of right to possess firearms. |
| Possession by Convicted Felon | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None | Mandatory minimum possible; permanent felony record. |
| Brandishing a Firearm | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Can be enhanced if in certain public places. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Falls Church Gun Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. In Falls Church, we have a documented record of handling complex criminal cases. Our approach is informed by former prosecutors and law enforcement professionals on our team, including Of Counsel Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of investigative experience. This insight is invaluable when challenging the Commonwealth’s evidence in a gun crime case.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our commitment is to seek the best possible outcome in every case. In Falls Church, our documented work includes achieving dismissals and reductions in criminal matters. We prepare every case for trial, which often leads to more favorable pre-trial resolutions. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases involving technical evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Gun Crime Lawyer Near Falls Church
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Falls Church courts. We are accessible via Route 7, Route 29, I-66, and I-495, near the West Falls Church Metro.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve the Falls Church community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor gun charge in Falls Church?
A Class 1 misdemeanor like carrying a concealed weapon carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Cases are heard at Falls Church General District Court.
Can gun charges be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 is generally available only for acquittals, dismissals, or cases where charges were dropped (nolle prosequi). Most convictions for gun crimes cannot be expunged from your record.
Do I need a lawyer for a gun charge in Falls Church?
Yes. Gun charges are serious and carry jail time, fines, and long-term loss of firearm rights. The Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A lawyer can protect your rights and build a defense.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a gun case?
Falls Church General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Falls Church Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any charge with potential jail time.
What should I do if I am arrested on a gun charge?
Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with your attorney. Contact a defense firm like SRIS, P.C. as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI in Falls Church and reckless driving in Falls Church. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.