Gun Crime Lawyer Chesterfield County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearms charge in Chesterfield County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict gun laws, such as Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (possession by a convicted felon). Convictions can lead to mandatory prison time and a permanent felony record. As a dedicated gun crime lawyer Chesterfield County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Gun Crime Laws and Penalties
Virginia categorizes firearms offenses primarily under Title 18.2 of the state code. A common and severe charge is possession of a firearm by a convicted violent felon, classified as a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. This charge 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 reckless handling of a firearm (§ 18.2-56.1). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesterfield County vigorously prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s firearms statutes, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-308.2 on law.lis.virginia.gov. Court procedures and local rules for Chesterfield County can be found on the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Firearms Charges in Chesterfield
Firearms charges in Chesterfield County begin with an arrest or summons. Misdemeanor charges like reckless handling are heard in the Chesterfield County General District Court at 9500 Courthouse Road. Felony charges, such as possession by a felon, start with a preliminary hearing in General District Court to determine probable cause before moving to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors here often seek the mandatory minimum sentences, making early and skilled intervention critical.
- Initial Appearance: You will be arraigned in Chesterfield County General District Court, where the charges are formally read, and you enter a plea.
- Bond Hearing: If incarcerated, a bond hearing is held. The court considers flight risk, danger to the community, and your criminal history.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): For felony charges, this hearing tests the prosecution’s evidence. A successful challenge can get the charge reduced or dismissed.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence and may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the charge’s validity.
- Trial or Resolution: The case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC (misdemeanors) or a jury trial in Circuit Court (felonies), or may be resolved through a negotiated plea.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows, where arguments can be made for alternatives to incarceration, especially for first-time offenses.
Potential Penalties for Firearms Offenses
In Chesterfield County, gun crimes carry severe penalties, from mandatory prison for felonies to significant jail time for misdemeanors, alongside fines and loss of firearm rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (mandatory min. for 2nd offense) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Permanent felony record, loss of right to possess firearms |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon w/o Permit (Va. Code § 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Forfeiture of weapon |
| Reckless Handling of Firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-56.1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Weapon forfeiture, enhanced if injury results |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Firearms 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 over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a firearms offense and build defenses that challenge the prosecution’s evidence from the start.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Documented Case Results
Our approach has secured documented results for clients in Chesterfield County. In one case, a charge of Profane Language Over Public Airway resulted in a Not Guilty verdict at Chesterfield County GDC. In another, a Purchase/Possess Alcohol charge was Dismissed. While every case is unique, these outcomes demonstrate our commitment to vigorous defense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Gun Crime Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Chesterfield County courts. We represent individuals from Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gun Crimes in Chesterfield County
What should I do if I’m arrested on a gun charge in Chesterfield County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you speak with an attorney. Contact a gun crime lawyer Chesterfield County from our firm at (888) 437-7747 for 24/7 assistance.
Is there a mandatory minimum sentence for gun crimes in Virginia?
Yes. Certain offenses, like a second conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted violent felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2), carry a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 2 years. The judge has no discretion to suspend or reduce this time.
Can I get a concealed carry permit if I have a prior misdemeanor?
It depends. Virginia law prohibits permits for individuals convicted of certain misdemeanors within the last 3-5 years, including assault, brandishing a firearm, or DUI. A firearms offense defense lawyer Chesterfield County can review your specific record and eligibility.
What’s the difference between a felony and misdemeanor gun charge?
Felonies, like possession by a felon, are more serious, heard in Circuit Court, and can result in state prison time (over 1 year). Misdemeanors, like reckless handling, are heard in General District Court with a maximum jail sentence of 12 months.
Can a gun charge be expunged from my record in Virginia?
It depends on the case outcome. Acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi can be expunged under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Convictions generally cannot be expunged, with very limited exceptions like deferred dispositions for first-time offenses.
For more information on related legal matters in the area, see our pages on Virginia criminal defense, or consider a criminal defense lawyer in Henrico County. If you are dealing with other charges, you may need a DUI lawyer in Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
