Weapons Offense Lawyer In Fairfax County, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
A weapons offense in Fairfax County is a serious criminal charge under Virginia law, with penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail) to a felony (1-10 years). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County. If you face a weapons charge, contact a weapons offense lawyer in Fairfax immediately for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Weapons Offense Laws
Virginia law strictly regulates the possession, carrying, and use of firearms and other weapons. Common charges include carrying a concealed weapon without a permit (Va. Code § 18.2-308), possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2), and brandishing a firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-282). The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend on the specific statute violated, the type of weapon, the defendant’s criminal history, and the circumstances of the alleged offense. A gun law lawyer can explain how these statutes apply to your situation.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s weapons laws, refer to the official Virginia General Assembly code website (Title 18.2, Chapter 7). Court procedures for Fairfax County are managed by the Fairfax County General District Court.
Local Court Process for Firearms Defense
Weapons charges in Fairfax County typically begin in the Fairfax County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings for felonies. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases aggressively. An experienced firearms defense attorney will scrutinize the legality of the search or seizure that led to the discovery of the weapon, challenge the chain of custody of the evidence, and examine whether the alleged conduct meets the specific elements of the charged crime.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all police reports, evidence, and witness statements.
- A motions hearing may be held to challenge the legality of evidence collection.
- Your lawyer will engage in plea negotiations with the prosecutor, aiming for dismissal or reduction.
- If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial in General District Court or a jury trial in Circuit Court for felonies.
Potential Penalties for Weapon Charges
In Fairfax County, weapon charges carry severe penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences for certain felonies and permanent loss of firearm rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concealed Weapon (no permit) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Forfeiture of weapon |
| Felon in Possession of Firearm | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Permanent firearm prohibition |
| Brandishing a Firearm | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Weapon forfeiture |
| Use of Firearm in Felony | Separate Felony | Mandatory 3-year minimum | N/A | N/A | Consecutive to underlying sentence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Weapons Charge Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a weapons charge and provide a focused, strategic defense.
Documented Case Results in Fairfax County
Our firm has a documented track record in Fairfax County courts. We have achieved 501 results in this jurisdiction, including 336 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 143 charges reduced or amended. For example, our team has successfully defended against charges like “Obtain Money on False Pretence,” resulting in reduction to a misdemeanor with suspended jail time. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome. Of Counsel attorney Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, contributes significant prosecutorial insight to our defense strategies.
Contact Our Fairfax Weapons Offense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We represent individuals in Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. As a weapons charge attorney near Fairfax County General District Court, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Weapons Offense Lawyer In Fairfax FAQ
What is the penalty for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Virginia?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500 under Va. Code § 18.2-308. The court may also order forfeiture of the weapon.
Can a convicted felon ever legally possess a firearm in Virginia?
No. Virginia law (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) permanently prohibits any person convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm. Violation is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1-5 years in prison (or up to 12 months) and a fine up to $2,500.
What should I do if I am arrested on a weapons charge?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with a weapons offense lawyer in Fairfax. Your attorney will protect your rights, analyze the evidence, and begin building your defense.
Are there defenses to a charge of brandishing a firearm?
Yes. Defenses may include self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent to intimidate, or that the firearm was not actually pointed or held in a threatening manner as required by Va. Code § 18.2-282. The specific facts are critical.
How can a lawyer help with a firearms charge?
A gun law lawyer can challenge the legality of the stop or search that discovered the weapon, negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing, and represent you at trial. Early legal intervention often leads to better outcomes for weapon charges.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides defense for DUI in Fairfax and reckless driving in Fairfax. 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 City and Falls Church.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.