Firearm by Felon Lawyer Bedford County, VA
Being charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Bedford County, Virginia is a serious matter. Under Virginia law, the offense is a Class 6 felony with the potential for incarceration, fines, and a permanent criminal record. The case will proceed in either Bedford County General District Court for preliminary matters or Bedford County Circuit Court for trial—both located at 123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represent individuals facing these charges. Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997 and has extensive experience defending clients in Virginia’s courts. To schedule a consultation, reach the firm at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Firearm by Felon Means in Bedford County
Virginia Code § 18.2-308.2 makes it unlawful for any person who has been convicted of a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess or transport a firearm. This statute applies regardless of whether the prior felony occurred in Virginia or another jurisdiction. The charge is distinct from federal firearm prohibitions under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), which may be prosecuted separately in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
In Bedford County, firearm‑by‑felon cases are handled in two courts. The General District Court conducts arraignments, bond hearings, and preliminary hearings for felony charges. If a grand jury returns an indictment, the case is transferred to the Bedford County Circuit Court for trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Bedford County prosecutes these matters. Because a conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence under certain circumstances—for example, if the defendant has a prior violent felony conviction within the preceding ten years—early legal guidance is critical. The firm’s attorneys appear regularly in these courts and are familiar with local procedures.
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony in Virginia, punishable by one to five years imprisonment or up to 12 months in jail at the discretion of the jury; a mandatory minimum of two years applies if the predicate felony was violent and occurred within the previous ten years.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. Virginia Code § 18.2‑308.2
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Firearm by Felon Cases
When a person contacts Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. about a firearm‑by‑felon charge in Bedford County, the first step is a consultation to understand the facts. The firm examines the underlying felony conviction to determine whether it qualifies as a predicate offense under Virginia law. Not every felony triggers the statute’s prohibition, and certain out‑of‑state convictions may require careful analysis. The team also reviews the circumstances of the alleged possession—where the firearm was found, who had access to it, and whether any exceptions apply, such as possession within a residence or place of business.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel prepare for each stage of the proceeding. In General District Court, they may challenge probable cause at the preliminary hearing or negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney about the possibility of amending the charge. If the case moves to Circuit Court, the attorneys file appropriate motions, contest the admissibility of evidence, and present a defense at trial. The firm’s approach emphasizes a thorough review of the prosecution’s case and protection of the client’s rights at every step. Results may vary.
The firm has documented 4 case results in Bedford County involving criminal matters—3 dismissals or not‑guilty findings and 1 other favorable resolution. Results may vary. every case is decided on its own facts.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris is Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. He is a former prosecutor who began practicing in 1997. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. They include attorneys with backgrounds as former Virginia State Troopers and former prosecutors. Together, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear in Bedford County courts and in jurisdictions throughout Virginia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against firearm by felon charges?
Defense strategies for firearm by felon in Virginia may include challenging the validity of the predicate felony, contesting the element of knowing possession, or asserting statutory exemptions. An experienced attorney examines the prior conviction to confirm it qualifies as a felony under Virginia law. If the predicate offense is not a felony in Virginia—even if it is labeled a felony in another state—the charge may be vulnerable. The attorney also evaluates whether the client had knowledge of the firearm’s presence. In some cases, the evidence supporting “constructive possession”—possession based on proximity rather than actual handling—can be challenged. Finally, Virginia law recognizes limited exceptions for possession within a residence or fixed place of business. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am facing firearm by felon charges in Virginia?
If you are facing firearm by felon charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately and do not discuss the case with anyone else. Exercise your right to remain silent. Preserve any documents or communications that may relate to the charge. The period between arrest and the first court appearance moves quickly, and an attorney can begin evaluating the case and communicating with the prosecutor’s office right away. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What are the penalties for firearm by felon in Bedford County, Virginia?
A firearm by felon conviction is a Class 6 felony, punishable by one to five years in prison or, at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the defendant has a prior violent felony conviction within the past ten years, a mandatory minimum of two years imprisonment applies. In addition to incarceration and fines, a conviction results in a permanent criminal record and the loss of firearm rights. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
Can a felon’s firearm rights be restored in Virginia?
A convicted felon may petition the Governor of Virginia for restoration of firearm rights, which is a separate process from the criminal case itself. Restoration is discretionary and depends on factors such as the nature of the prior felony, the applicant’s criminal history, and evidence of rehabilitation. Even after rights are restored under state law, federal law may still prohibit firearm possession. The firm can discuss the restoration process during a consultation. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a firearm by felon charge in Bedford County?
Yes, the significant potential consequences of a Class 6 felony, including the possibility of a mandatory minimum sentence, make legal representation essential. Criminal charges affect not only your liberty but also your employment, housing, and professional licenses. Early engagement of an attorney can influence decisions about bond, charge negotiations, and trial preparation. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.