Firearm by Felon Lawyer New Kent County, VA
You were stopped on I-64 near Providence Forge. A routine traffic inquiry turned into a felony arrest when law enforcement found a firearm in your car. Now you are facing a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon under Virginia law — a Class 6 felony with serious consequences. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have handled criminal matters in New Kent County for years. They understand the anxiety of a firearm-by-felon accusation and work to build a thorough, well-prepared defense for clients in New Kent, Providence Forge, Quinton, and the surrounding communities. Reach our Richmond location at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Strategy Options in a New Kent County Firearm-by-Felon Case
When Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents a client charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, the first step is a careful review of the evidence and the basis for the stop. Our legal team examines whether law enforcement followed proper protocols and whether any search or seizure might have been conducted in violation of the client’s rights. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel — including an Of Counsel who served for fifteen years as a Virginia State Trooper — bring a dual perspective from both sides of the courtroom to scrutinize the Commonwealth’s case.
We explore whether the firearm fits the legal definition, whether the prior conviction triggers the statutory prohibition, and whether any exceptions apply. In some instances, mitigating factors — such as the circumstances of the prior felony or the client’s background — may support negotiation with the prosecutor. Every strategy is tailored to the specific facts of the New Kent County case and the priorities of the individual client.
What to Expect in New Kent County Court
New Kent County General District Court, located at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124, handles preliminary hearings in felony matters. If the case proceeds beyond the preliminary stage, it moves to New Kent County Circuit Court for trial or disposition. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with the procedures and personnel in these courts, including the Ninth Judicial District’s practices.
A charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 can carry a sentence of one to five years of incarceration, with potential mandatory minimums depending on the nature of the prior felony. Because the stakes include a possible felony conviction and the loss of any prospect of rights restoration, a careful approach is essential. Our firm works to guide clients through each court appearance, from the initial advisement through any possible trial.
Penalty Overview for Firearm Possession by a Felon
Virginia classifies possession of a firearm by a convicted felon as a Class 6 felony. The potential punishment includes a prison term of one to five years, or, at the discretion of a jury, up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the prior felony was a violent felony as defined by Virginia law, and the offense occurred within ten years of that prior conviction, a mandatory minimum sentence of two years applies. If the firearm was also loaded, the mandatory minimum is five years. These penalties are serious, and a conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and civil rights. Results may vary.
Attorney Credentials
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997 and has concentrated his practice on criminal defense across multiple jurisdictions. A former prosecutor, he brings firsthand knowledge of how the state builds its cases. He is supported by a team of Of Counsel attorneys with extensive experience in Virginia criminal law, including a former Virginia State Trooper whose law enforcement background provides critical insight into traffic stops and firearms discoveries. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved over 4,739 documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a lawyer defend against firearm by felon charges in New Kent County?
Defense strategies in New Kent County may include challenging the legality of the stop, the search that produced the firearm, or the validity of the prior felony conviction. Our firm also examines whether the item meets the legal definition of a firearm and whether any exceptions, such as antique firearm status, apply. We may negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for reduced charges or alternative resolutions when the facts support it. 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 New Kent County?
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately, and do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any evidence or documentation related to the stop and the firearm. In New Kent County, prompt action is important because the court process moves on fixed timelines. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can advise you on how to protect your rights from the earliest stage. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can a felon ever possess a firearm legally in Virginia?
Virginia law generally prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms, but rights restoration through the governor’s petition process is possible for certain individuals. Under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, the prohibition applies broadly. However, if a court has restored a person’s civil rights, and those rights include the ability to possess a firearm, the charge may not apply. Restoration is fact-specific and requires a thorough legal review. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between a federal and state firearm by felon charge?
A state charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 is prosecuted in Virginia courts, while a federal charge under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) is prosecuted in U.S. District Court and carries potentially longer sentences with no parole. In New Kent County, the state case is handled by the local Commonwealth’s Attorney. Federal charges are brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Virginia. Our firm handles both state and federal matters. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a firearm by felon charge in New Kent County?
Yes. A felony charge involves possible incarceration, a permanent criminal record, and loss of civil rights. Even a first-time charge can result in a prison sentence. An experienced defense attorney can assess the evidence, identify procedural defenses, and negotiate with the prosecutor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented favorable outcomes in New Kent County criminal matters, and while Results may vary. Our firm works toward the trusted resolution for every client. To discuss the details of your matter, contact us at (888) 437-7747.
What are the penalties for a firearm by felon charge in Virginia?
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony, punishable by one to five years in prison, with possible mandatory minimums. If the prior felony was a violent crime within the previous ten years, a two-year mandatory minimum may apply; if the firearm was loaded, the mandatory minimum may be five years. The court also has discretion to impose a jail sentence of up to twelve months instead of a prison term in some cases. A felony conviction also results in the loss of firearm rights and may affect employment and housing. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How does the court process work in New Kent County for a felony firearm charge?
The process begins with an initial appearance and advisement of rights in New Kent County General District Court, followed by a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to the Circuit Court. If the charge is certified, the case proceeds to New Kent County Circuit Court for arraignment, motions, and potential trial. Throughout each stage, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can represent your interests and work to secure the most favorable outcome. For a consultation, reach us at (888) 437-7747.
Can a firearm by felon charge be expunged or sealed in Virginia?
Expungement is available only when a charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi; a conviction cannot be expunged. Virginia’s recently enacted record-sealing framework may, in the future, allow sealing of certain convictions, but as of now, firearm-by-felon convictions are generally not eligible. If the charge is resolved in a way that avoids a conviction, an expungement petition may be filed in New Kent County Circuit Court. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a firearm by felon case?
Fees vary depending on the complexity of the case and the stage at which the attorney is retained. Our firm offers consultations to discuss the circumstances and provide a fee estimate. We accept credit cards, cash, check, and payment plans may be available. To discuss fees for your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Client Resources
Review our related pages for additional information:
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Fairfax County
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Prince William County
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Manassas
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Falls Church
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Fairfax City
For the latest statutory language, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 and the Virginia Judicial System.
Last reviewed: June 2026
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.