Unlawful Dealing In Firearms Lawyer Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Unlawful dealing in firearms in Virginia is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2:2, carrying severe penalties. As an unlawful dealing in firearms lawyer Virginia, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these complex charges. Our firm has documented case results across Virginia courts. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
If you are charged with unlawfully dealing in firearms, you face a complex legal battle with significant consequences. Virginia law strictly regulates the sale, purchase, and transfer of firearms, and violations are prosecuted aggressively. A conviction can result in lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and the permanent loss of your right to possess firearms. You need a skilled unlawful dealing in firearms lawyer Virginia who understands both state statutes and federal regulations to protect your rights and future.
Virginia Law on Unlawful Dealing in Firearms
The primary statute governing unlawful dealing in firearms in Virginia is Va. Code § 18.2-308.2:2. This law makes it a felony to sell, rent, trade, or transfer a firearm to any person you know is prohibited from possessing one. Prohibited persons include convicted felons, individuals adjudicated mentally incompetent, undocumented immigrants, and those subject to protective orders. The statute also addresses straw purchases, where someone buys a firearm on behalf of a person who cannot legally do so themselves. Each illegal transaction can be charged as a separate offense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-308.2:2 (official Virginia General Assembly). For information on court procedures, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
- Secure immediate legal representation before speaking to investigators.
- Your attorney will review all charges, police reports, and evidence.
- We will challenge the legality of any searches or seizures.
- We investigate whether you had knowledge of the buyer’s prohibited status.
- We negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or explore pre-trial diversion.
- If necessary, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial.
Potential Penalties for Unlawful Dealing in Firearms in Virginia
In Virginia, unlawful dealing in firearms is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlawful Sale/Transfer (Single Firearm) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent loss of firearm rights | Federal prosecution possible |
| Multiple Firearms / Trafficking | Enhanced Felony | Mandatory minimum sentences apply | Higher fines | Permanent loss of firearm rights | Asset forfeiture, federal charges |
| Straw Purchase | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent loss of firearm rights | Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(6) |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Firearms Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive representation. We have a documented track record of handling complex criminal cases, including weapons offenses. Our attorneys understand the technical aspects of firearm laws and the strategies prosecutors use.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our weapons attorney team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, works diligently to challenge the evidence and protect your rights.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Unlawful Dealing In Firearms Lawyer Virginia | Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location — By appointment only.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves all Virginia communities. As your nearby unlawful dealing in firearms lawyer Virginia, we are accessible for clients across the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “unlawful dealing in firearms” mean in Virginia?
It is a felony to sell, rent, trade, or transfer a firearm to someone you know is legally prohibited from possessing one, such as a convicted felon or a person under a protective order. Straw purchases are also included.
Can I face both state and federal charges for the same act?
Yes. The same illegal firearm transaction can violate both Virginia law (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2:2) and federal law (e.g., 18 U.S.C. § 922). Federal penalties are often more severe, with mandatory minimum sentences. You need a firearms defense lawyer experienced in both systems.
What are common defenses against these charges?
Defenses include lack of knowledge that the recipient was prohibited, entrapment by law enforcement, unlawful search and seizure violating the Fourth Amendment, and challenging the authenticity or chain of custody of evidence. A gun charges lawyer can identify the best strategy for your case.
What should I do if I’m under investigation?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact a weapon offense defense attorney. We can intervene, advise you on your rights, and potentially prevent charges from being filed.
Why is a former trooper like Bryan Block an advantage for my defense?
His 15 years as a Virginia State Trooper provide insider knowledge of police procedures, investigative standards, and how evidence is gathered in firearms cases. This perspective is powerful for finding weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients with related matters like Traffic violations in Virginia. To speak directly with an attorney, call (888) 437-7747.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
An unlawful dealing in firearms case is one part of our Virginia federal practice, and our page on federal criminal lawyer Virginia covers how these matters are handled.