Virginia Beach VA Concealed Weapon Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A concealed weapon charge in Virginia Beach is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-308, carrying penalties up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges. Our Virginia Beach VA concealed weapon lawyer understands local court procedures. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Concealed Weapon Law
Carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-308. This statute prohibits hiding any weapon, including firearms, knives, or other dangerous items, from common observation. A valid concealed handgun permit is a defense. The law applies on your person or within your vehicle’s reach. Penalties increase for subsequent offenses or possession by certain prohibited persons.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Weapon Charges
Weapon charges in Virginia Beach are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Virginia Beach General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for these offenses. A Virginia Beach VA concealed weapon lawyer can handle this process. The procedural steps are specific to this jurisdiction.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential plea agreements with the prosecutor, which may involve reduced charges.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to the Virginia Beach Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
In Virginia Beach, a concealed weapon charge carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, with enhanced penalties for repeat offenses or possession by felons.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Permanent criminal record |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (Subsequent) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Felony record |
| Possession by Convicted Felon | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Felony record, mandatory minimum |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Defense Approach for Weapon Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into case construction and police procedures. We have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our firm-wide case results total 4,739+ with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+. We focus on a detailed review of the stop, search, and arrest procedures in every case.
Our weapons attorney, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, brings additional strategic oversight to complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems is an asset in cases involving financial or technical evidence.
Case Results in Virginia Beach
Our firearms defense lawyer team has documented results in Virginia Beach courts. We have 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in this locality, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved without jail time.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Virginia Beach Weapon Offense Defense Lawyer Near Me
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway). We are accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Virginia Beach Concealed Weapon Lawyer FAQ
What is the penalty for carrying a concealed weapon in Virginia Beach?
A first offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second or subsequent offense is a Class 6 felony with 1-5 years in prison.
Can I get a concealed weapon charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 is generally available only if the charge was dismissed, you were acquitted, or the prosecutor entered a nolle prosequi. A conviction for carrying a concealed weapon typically cannot be expunged.
Do I need a gun charges lawyer for a first-time offense?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor carries the potential for jail time and creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and firearm rights. A lawyer can seek alternative resolutions.
What are common defenses to a concealed weapon charge?
Common defenses include having a valid concealed handgun permit, challenging the legality of the stop or search, arguing the weapon was not “hidden,” or proving the item does not meet the legal definition of a weapon.
Where are concealed weapon cases heard in Virginia Beach?
Misdemeanor concealed weapon trials are held in Virginia Beach General District Court at 2425 Nimmo Parkway. You have a right to appeal a conviction to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for a jury trial.
For more information, see the Virginia Courts website or our page on Virginia criminal defense. We also assist with related matters like DUI charges in Virginia Beach and criminal defense in Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.