Gun Crime Lawyer Prince William County — Defending Your Rights and Future
A gun charge in Prince William County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict firearm laws. Convictions can lead to mandatory prison time, permanent loss of gun rights, and a felony record. As a Gun Crime Lawyer Prince William County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Gun Crime Laws and Penalties
Virginia categorizes firearm offenses under Title 18.2 of the state code. A common and severe charge is possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, classified as a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. This charge alone carries a potential sentence of 1 to 5 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of 2 years for a second offense. Other charges include carrying a concealed weapon without a permit (§ 18.2-308) and using a firearm in the commission of a felony (§ 18.2-53.1), which adds a mandatory consecutive prison term.
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to these complex cases. Our team understands the severe implications a gun conviction carries for your future.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s firearm statutes, refer to the official Virginia General Assembly website for Title 18.2, Chapter 7. Court procedures and filings for Prince William County are handled through the Prince William County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Gun Charges in Prince William County
Gun charges in Prince William County typically begin in the General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue in Manassas for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings for felonies. Felony trials proceed to the Prince William County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. An experienced Gun Crime Attorney Prince William County can challenge the legality of the search, the chain of custody of the weapon, and the intent required for conviction.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty in Prince William County General District Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): The prosecution must show probable cause for the felony charge to proceed to Circuit Court.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will work to have charges reduced or dismissed. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your attorney will argue for the most lenient sentence possible under the circumstances.
Potential Penalties for Gun Crimes
In Prince William County, gun crime penalties range from misdemeanor fines to decades in prison, with many charges carrying mandatory minimum sentences that limit judicial discretion.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession by Convicted Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (mandatory min. for repeat) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Permanent loss of firearm rights |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (Va. Code § 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Forfeiture of weapon |
| Use of Firearm in Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1) | Separate Felony | Mandatory 3 years (min.), consecutive to other sentences | N/A | N/A | Severe sentencing enhancement |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Gun Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings a formidable combination of former prosecutorial insight and defense experience to every case. Our team, which includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, has a deep, practical understanding of how firearm cases are investigated and built by law enforcement. This perspective is invaluable in identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, from improper traffic stops to flawed search warrants. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of defending clients in Prince William County. For instance, our team, including experienced attorney Kristen Fisher, has successfully argued for the suppression of evidence in firearm cases, skilled to dismissals. In other matters, we have negotiated reductions from felony to misdemeanor charges, avoiding mandatory prison time.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts. We provide a Gun Crime Lawyer near Prince William County for communities including Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, and Dumfries. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Gun Crime Defense FAQs in Prince William County
What should I do if I’m arrested on a gun charge in Prince William County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case or your firearm with anyone until you have spoken with a Gun Crime Lawyer Prince William County. Anything you say can be used against you.
Can I get a gun charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia law (Va. Code § 19.2-392.2) allows expungement only for acquittals, dismissals, or cases where the prosecution declines to press charges (nolle prosequi). A felony conviction for a gun crime cannot be expunged, making a strong defense from the outset critical.
What is the difference between state and federal gun charges?
State charges are prosecuted under Virginia law in county courts. Federal gun charges (e.g., felon in possession under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal court and typically carry longer sentences without parole. Our firm has attorneys experienced in both arenas.
Do I need a permit to have a gun in my car in Virginia?
Yes, if the firearm is concealed. A concealed handgun permit (CHP) is required. A firearm may be stored openly in a vehicle, but specific rules apply. Transporting a loaded, concealed firearm without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
What defenses are available for gun crime charges?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment violation), proving lack of knowledge or possession, asserting self-defense, or questioning the firearm’s operability. A skilled Gun Crime Attorney Prince William County will analyze all angles.
Related Practice Areas: For other legal needs in the area, see our Prince William County DUI Lawyer and Prince William County Criminal Defense Lawyer pages. For a broader view, 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.