Manassas VA Firearm By Felon Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearm by felon charge in Manassas, Virginia, is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, carrying a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison. As a Manassas VA firearm by felon lawyer, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a full defense.
Virginia Law on Firearm Possession by a Convicted Felon
Virginia law strictly prohibits any person convicted of a felony from possessing, transporting, or carrying any firearm. This statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, is a primary tool for prosecutors in Manassas and across the Commonwealth. The charge is not limited to carrying a concealed weapon; it applies to any possession, including having a firearm in your home or vehicle.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for these cases in Manassas are handled by the Manassas General District Court for preliminary hearings and the Prince William County Circuit Court for trials.
Local Court Process for Firearm Charges in Manassas
Firearm by felon charges in Manassas begin with an arrest and an initial appearance at the Manassas General District Court. The case will proceed to a preliminary hearing in that court to determine if there is probable cause to certify the felony charge to the Prince William County Circuit Court for a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases due to the mandatory penalties involved. A gun charges lawyer must immediately work to challenge the evidence of possession and the validity of the underlying felony conviction.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate for a bond hearing, then have an initial arraignment in Manassas General District Court.
- Secure Legal Representation: Contact a Manassas VA firearm by felon lawyer immediately. Early intervention is critical for bail arguments and evidence review.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your attorney will challenge the prosecution’s evidence at a hearing in Manassas GDC to try to get the charge reduced or dismissed before it goes to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If certified, the case moves to Prince William County Circuit Court for formal arraignment on the felony indictment.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Negotiation: Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a possible plea to a non-mandatory charge.
- Trial or Resolution: The case will proceed to a jury trial or be resolved through a plea agreement that minimizes the mandatory prison time.
Penalties for a Firearm By Felon Conviction in Virginia
In Manassas, a conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 is a Class 6 felony carrying a mandatory minimum sentence of 2 years in prison, with a maximum of 5 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years; Maximum 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently; possible loss of voting rights | Permanent felony record; severe barriers to employment and housing; federal prosecution possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Manassas Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results, our team brings deep knowledge to complex felony defenses. Our Manassas weapon offense defense is led by attorneys who understand the local courts. For instance, Of Counsel attorney Bryan Block is a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, providing unique insight into how firearm investigations are conducted.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results are confidential, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. We have achieved favorable outcomes in thousands of criminal cases through dismissals, reductions, and acquittals. In firearm cases, a strong defense often involves challenging the legality of the search that discovered the weapon, the proof of possession, or the status of the prior conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Manassas Residents
Our Fairfax location serves clients facing charges at the Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230). We are accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We serve neighborhoods throughout Manassas. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a felon with a gun in Virginia?
It is a Class 6 felony with a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison and a maximum of 5 years, plus a fine up to $2,500 under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2.
Can a felon ever legally own a gun in Virginia?
No, Virginia law provides no pathway for a convicted felon to restore firearm possession rights. Federal law also imposes a lifetime ban. A weapons attorney can discuss rights restoration for other civil rights, but firearm possession remains prohibited.
What does “possession” mean in a firearm by felon charge?
“Possession” can be actual (on your person) or constructive (within your control, like in your car or home). The prosecution must prove you knew the firearm was present and had the ability to control it. A firearms defense lawyer challenges this proof.
What are common defenses to a firearm by felon charge?
Defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment), proving you did not know the firearm was present, arguing the item was not a functional firearm, or contesting the validity of the predicate felony conviction. A gun charges lawyer will identify the best strategy.
Do I need a lawyer for a firearm charge in Manassas?
Yes. The mandatory prison sentence makes experienced legal representation essential. A Manassas VA firearm by felon lawyer from our firm can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI defense in Manassas and reckless driving in Manassas. For a broader view of our criminal practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax and Prince William County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.