Gun Crime Lawyer Manassas, VA
Gun crime charges in Manassas, Virginia range from misdemeanor concealed‑weapon violations to felony firearm possession by a convicted felon, and a conviction can carry jail time, significant fines, and loss of firearm rights. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients facing gun‑related allegations in the Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, Virginia 20110 and in the Manassas Circuit Court for felony matters. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring decades of combined courtroom experience to each case, working to protect the rights of the accused while navigating Virginia’s specific firearm statutes. If you have been charged with a gun offense or are under investigation, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Manassas General District Court is currently presided over by Hon. Che C. Rogers. Court hours: Mon‑Fri 8:00AM–4:00PM. Counsel appearing on criminal matters should plan filings accordingly.
What Gun Crime Means in Manassas
Gun crime in Manassas encompasses any criminal charge in which a firearm is alleged to have been carried, possessed, displayed, or used in an unlawful manner. Virginia law draws sharp distinctions based on the defendant’s status and the circumstances of the offense. For example, carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit is generally a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-308, while possession of a firearm by a person previously convicted of a felony is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. Charges are filed in the Manassas General District Court when they are misdemeanor‑level, and felony cases proceed to the Manassas Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing.
Manassas is an independent city located within the Thirty‑first Judicial District of Virginia, and prosecution of gun‑related offenses is handled by the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas. The courthouse sits at 9311 Lee Avenue, and both the city’s general district and circuit courts operate from that building. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel regularly appear in these courts and understand how local prosecutors approach firearm cases, from bond arguments at arraignment through trial or negotiated resolution. Because even a misdemeanor firearm conviction can affect employment, professional licensing, and future firearm rights, anyone facing a gun charge in Manassas should seek legal guidance as early as possible.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Gun Crime Cases in Manassas
When Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. takes on a gun crime matter in Manassas, the first step is a thorough review of the arrest details, the evidence the Commonwealth intends to use, and any constitutional issues such as the legality of a search or seizure. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate whether the firearm was lawfully recovered, whether statements made by the accused are admissible, and whether the charge fits the specific weapon and conduct alleged. This early analysis often identifies weaknesses that can be raised in a motion to suppress or during plea negotiations.
If the case proceeds to trial, the defense team prepares for both the General District Court and, in felony matters, the Circuit Court. Because Virginia’s sentencing ranges for firearm offenses can be substantial, the defense may also explore whether the client is eligible for a first‑offender program, deferred disposition, or an amendment to a non‑firearm charge. Throughout the process, the firm keeps the client informed of the court’s schedule and explains each procedural stage. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to achieve the most favorable outcome possible given the facts; Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., established the firm in 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings firsthand insight into how criminal cases are built, and he has practiced across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
The Of Counsel team includes attorneys with backgrounds in law enforcement and prosecution. One member is a former Virginia State Trooper who spent 15 years in highway and criminal investigations, while another previously served as a prosecutor in Maryland. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. The firm has documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas since 1997.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common gun crime charges in Manassas, Virginia?
Common gun crime charges in Manassas 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), reckless handling of a firearm, and use or display of a firearm during the commission of another felony. Misdemeanor concealed‑weapon offenses are heard in the Manassas General District Court, while felonies such as felon‑in‑possession proceed through the Manassas Circuit Court. Penalties vary by charge class: Class 1 misdemeanors carry up to twelve months in jail and a fine, whereas a Class 6 felony may result in one to five years of incarceration. The specific facts of each case, including the type of weapon and the accused’s criminal history, influence the Commonwealth’s charging decision and the potential penalty. For guidance on your particular situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Is carrying a concealed weapon a felony in Virginia?
A first offense of carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-308, not a felony. However, a second offense becomes a Class 6 felony, and a third or subsequent offense is a Class 5 felony. A person, including some out‑of‑state visitors, may be unaware that their out‑of‑state permit is not recognized in Virginia or that the firearm must be transported in a specific manner. In Manassas, these cases are initially filed in the General District Court, where the judge may consider factors such as the reason for carrying, cooperation with law enforcement, and the absence of any aggravating circumstances. An experienced defense attorney can review whether the search was lawful and whether the item qualifies as a weapon under the statute, and can argue for a reduction or dismissal.
Can a convicted felon ever get firearm rights restored in Virginia?
Under current Virginia law, a person convicted of a felony loses the right to possess a firearm, and regaining that right generally requires restoration of civil rights by the Governor and a separate petition to the circuit court. The process depends on the nature of the conviction and whether all other civil rights have been restored. Even after restoration, federal law may still impose a firearms disability under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). In Manassas, a charge of felon‑in‑possession of a firearm under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 is a felony itself, and conviction can lead to a mandatory‑minimum sentence if the underlying felony was violent. Anyone in this situation should speak with counsel before taking any action that could result in new charges. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss whether a restoration petition is a viable option in your case.
Do I need a lawyer for a gun crime charge in Manassas?
While you are not legally required to hire an attorney, gun crime charges in Manassas carry the potential for incarceration, a permanent criminal record, and loss of firearm rights that can affect your future. The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office prosecutes these cases actively, and mistakes made early—such as speaking with investigators without counsel—can be difficult to undo. A lawyer who is familiar with the Manassas courts can evaluate the strength of the evidence, identify any violations of your constitutional rights, and negotiate with the prosecutor to seek a charge reduction or alternative disposition. For a consultation about your specific gun charge, contact Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
What happens at my first court appearance in Manassas General District Court for a gun charge?
At an initial appearance in Manassas General District Court, the judge will advise you of the charge, determine whether you have counsel, and may consider bond or continue the case for an attorney to be retained. In a misdemeanor gun case, the court may arraign you at that hearing and set a trial date. For a felony, the first appearance is typically a preliminary hearing where the judge decides whether probable cause exists to send the case to the Manassas Circuit Court. Throughout this process, the court operates Monday through Friday, 8:00AM–4:00PM, and counsel should plan filings accordingly. Having an attorney present at the earliest stage can help protect your rights and influence the bond decision.
Internal-link navigation:
Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer ·
Prince William County criminal defense lawyer ·
Manassas Park criminal defense lawyer ·
Falls Church criminal defense lawyer
Authoritative primary sources:
Va. Code § 18.2-308 (Concealed Weapon) ·
Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (Felon in Possession) ·
Manassas General District Court
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