Firearm by Felon Lawyer Prince William County, VA
A charge for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Prince William County is a serious felony matter under Virginia law. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents individuals facing this charge in the Prince William County General District Court and Prince William County Circuit Court. Our firm is led by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor who has practiced in Virginia for decades, and supported by an experienced Of Counsel team. If you or a family member has been accused of violating Va. Code § 18.2‑308.2, we encourage you to reach us at (888) 437‑7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Firearm by Felon Means in Prince William County
In Virginia, the offense commonly called “firearm by felon” is codified at Va. Code § 18.2‑308.2. The statute makes it a felony for any person who has been convicted of a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess or transport a firearm. In Prince William County, the charge is typically prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard in the Prince William County General District Court for preliminary matters and in the Prince William County Circuit Court for trial. Because the offense is a Class 6 felony, a conviction carries a potential sentence of one to five years imprisonment, or at the discretion of a jury up to twelve months in jail and a fine. A mandatory minimum sentence of two years applies if the prior felony was a violent felony set out in Va. Code § 17.1‑805 and the offense occurred within ten years of the prior conviction; if the firearm was loaded, the mandatory minimum rises to five years. These are the statutory ranges that guide the court’s sentencing decision in Prince William County.
Beyond the criminal penalties, a conviction under Va. Code § 18.2‑308.2 permanently affects a person’s ability to possess firearms under both state and federal law. Federal law separately prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), and a state conviction often triggers federal consequences. The firm’s approach in Prince William County is to examine every available defense, from challenging the legality of the initial search and seizure to questioning whether the accused meets the statutory definition of “possession.” Our familiarity with the local courts—including the General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110, and the Circuit Court—allows us to tailor the defense strategy to the practices of the Thirty-first Judicial District.
Prince William County 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.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Firearm by Felon Cases
Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel approach each firearm-by-felon matter by first examining the factual circumstances of the arrest. In many cases, the critical issue is whether the accused actually possessed the firearm: a person who merely occupies a vehicle or residence where a firearm is found may not be legally responsible under Virginia’s constructive‑possession rules. Our attorneys review police reports, body‑camera footage, and witness statements to identify weaknesses in the Commonwealth’s evidence.
The next phase involves procedural challenges. If the firearm was discovered during a traffic stop or a warrantless entry, we explore whether law enforcement complied with the Fourth Amendment and Virginia constitutional protections. When evidence was obtained in violation of the accused’s rights, we file motions to suppress. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have extensive experience arguing suppression motions before the judges of the Prince William County courts, and they understand the local evidentiary standards applied by the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office.
For clients who are not eligible for a complete dismissal, the firm works toward a resolution that minimizes incarceration. This may involve negotiating a plea to a non‑firearm offense, advocating for a suspended sentence, or seeking the application of first‑offender deferred‑disposition provisions where the law permits. Throughout the process, we keep the client informed of the strengths and risks of each option. Because every case is unique, we do not offer outcome guarantees; however, we bring over 120 years of combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel, supported by 4,739+ documented firm-wide results, to the representation. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced in Virginia since 1997. He is admitted to the bars of Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His familiarity with Prince William County courts stems from frequent appearances in the General District and Circuit Courts, where he has represented clients in felony matters including firearms offenses. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
The team also includes experienced Of Counsel attorneys who handle criminal defense matters across Northern Virginia. Each Of Counsel attorney brings a distinctive background—such as former law enforcement service or prior prosecutorial experience—that sharpens our ability to analyze firearm‑by‑felon cases from multiple angles. Collectively, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience, backed by 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented thousands of case results since the firm’s founding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for firearm by felon in Virginia?
A violation of Va. Code § 18.2‑308.2 is a Class 6 felony punishable by one to five years in prison, with a mandatory minimum two‑year sentence if the prior felony was a violent offense. If the prior conviction was for a violent felony and the firearm was loaded, the mandatory minimum rises to five years. The sentencing court may also impose a fine up to $2,500, and federal law may separately prohibit future firearm possession. Each case is assessed individually, and the actual sentence depends on the facts and the strength of the defense.
Can a felon ever regain the right to possess a firearm in Virginia?
In Virginia, a person convicted of a felony automatically loses the right to possess a firearm, and restoration of that right requires a petition for restoration of civil rights by the Governor. Even after restoration of civil rights, federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) may still prohibit firearm possession unless specific federal relief is obtained. The process is complex, and an experienced attorney can help evaluate whether restoration is possible in a particular situation.
What should I do if I am arrested for firearm by felon in Prince William County?
If arrested for a firearm‑by‑felon charge in Prince William County, immediately remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. Do not discuss the facts of the case with police or anyone else until you have legal representation. Preserve any evidence that may be favorable, such as text messages, photographs, or witness contact information. Promptly contact a criminal defense lawyer who is familiar with the Prince William County courts to protect your rights from the outset.
How does a lawyer defend a firearm by felon charge in Prince William County?
Defense strategies for firearm by felon charges in Prince William County often focus on challenging the legality of the stop or search, contesting the element of possession, or negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduced charge. A thorough review of police reports and officer conduct can reveal constitutional violations that lead to suppression of evidence. Additionally, where the accused was unaware of the firearm’s presence or lacked control over it, constructive‑possession arguments may result in dismissal or acquittal. Every step of the process is handled in the local Prince William County courts.
Is firearm by felon the same as federal felon in possession?
No; Virginia’s firearm‑by‑felon statute (Va. Code § 18.2‑308.2) is a state offense, while federal felon‑in‑possession charges arise under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). A person may face both a state prosecution in Prince William County Circuit Court and a parallel federal indictment in the Eastern District of Virginia. Federal sentences are typically longer and do not allow parole. An attorney who understands both systems can help navigate the dual‑sovereignty risk and work to protect the client’s interests in each forum.
Do I need a lawyer for a firearm by felon charge, or can I handle it myself?
Given the severe consequences—including a mandatory minimum prison term in many cases—it is strongly advisable to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney for a firearm‑by‑felon charge in Virginia. Self‑representation can expose you to procedural pitfalls, loss of defenses, and an unfavorable record that affects employment, housing, and federal firearms restrictions. A qualified lawyer familiar with Prince William County courts can evaluate the evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor, and advocate for favorable outcomes under the law.
For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
