Gun Crime Lawyer Chesapeake, VA

Facing a gun-related charge in Chesapeake, Virginia, can put your freedom and your future at risk. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, defends individuals charged with firearms offenses in Chesapeake’s courts—misdemeanor cases at the Chesapeake General District Court and felony matters at the Chesapeake Circuit Court. Whether you are accused of carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, or using a weapon during the commission of another crime, the consequences of a conviction extend far beyond jail time and fines: a permanent criminal record, loss of firearm rights, and damage to your employment and reputation. You need an experienced defense team that understands both Virginia’s firearms statutes and the local courtroom dynamics in Chesapeake. To discuss your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Gun Crime Means in Chesapeake

Under Virginia law, gun crimes are not a single category of offense; they cover a range of prohibited conduct involving firearms. The most frequently charged firearms offenses in Chesapeake include carrying a concealed weapon in violation of Va. Code § 18.2-308, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, and the use or display of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Cases are heard either in the Chesapeake General District Court, located at 307 Albemarle Drive, or, for felony charges, in the Chesapeake Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesapeake prosecutes these cases, and a conviction can result in incarceration, substantial fines, and a lifetime loss of the right to possess firearms under federal law.

Carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor for a first offense, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-308. A second offense within 10 years is a Class 6 felony; a third or subsequent offense is a Class 5 felony.

Source: Va. Code § 18.2-308. Virginia Code § 18.2-308

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

Possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a felony is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, carrying a sentence of one to five years in prison—or up to 12 months in jail at the jury’s discretion. If the prior felony was a violent felony and the firearm was loaded, a mandatory minimum sentence may apply.

Source: Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. Virginia Code § 18.2-308.2

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

Chesapeake General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. If the Commonwealth’s Attorney elects to pursue a felony charge, the case moves to the Chesapeake Circuit Court for a jury trial. Defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense that carries the possibility of jail time. The court at 307 Albemarle Drive also administers first-offender programs and, in appropriate cases, deferred dispositions that can lead to a dismissal. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are familiar with the local procedures and work to protect clients’ rights at every stage.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Gun Crime Cases

A strong defense to a gun charge in Chesapeake begins with a thorough examination of how the evidence was obtained. Many firearms cases arise from traffic stops, searches of a vehicle, or encounters with law enforcement. If the police lacked probable cause to stop or detain a person, or conducted a search beyond what the law allows, the resulting evidence may be suppressed. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys scrutinize every detail—from the initial law-enforcement interaction to the handling of the firearm—to identify procedural weaknesses and challenge the admissibility of evidence.

In addition to constitutional challenges, the defense strategy often focuses on statutory elements. For a concealed-weapon charge, for example, the Commonwealth must prove that the weapon was both concealed and readily accessible, and that the accused did not fall within one of the many statutory exceptions. The firm’s defense attorneys thoroughly investigate the facts and explore every available defense, including whether the weapon was in a container, whether the accused had a valid reason for carrying it, and whether the accused was in a private residence or place of business at the time. The goal is always to achieve favorable outcomes—whether that means a dismissal, a reduction of charges, or a favorable resolution that avoids a felony conviction and its lifetime consequences.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor with experience in criminal trial work. He founded the firm in 1997 and has practiced in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York for nearly three decades. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), demonstrating his commitment to the fair administration of justice. His background gives him insight into how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds a gun-crime case and how to mount an effective defense.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring diverse backgrounds, including former law-enforcement experience. Together, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to gun crime defense. Results may vary. The firm’s Richmond location serves clients in Chesapeake and the surrounding communities of Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. Consultations are by appointment; call (888) 437-7747.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the penalties for gun crimes in Chesapeake, Virginia?

Penalties depend on the specific charge, but a first-offense concealed-weapon violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine), while possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony (1–5 years). A second concealed-carry offense becomes a Class 6 felony, and a third is a Class 5 felony. Using or displaying a firearm during a felony can add mandatory prison time. In Chesapeake, misdemeanor trials are held in General District Court; felony cases proceed to Circuit Court, where judges have broad sentencing discretion.

Can a gun charge in Chesapeake be dismissed or reduced?

Yes, many gun charges can be dismissed or reduced through pretrial motions, negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, or first-offender programs. A successful motion to suppress evidence (such as a firearm discovered during an illegal search) can lead to dismissal. In some circumstances, a felony charge may be amended to a misdemeanor. First-offender dispositions under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available for eligible defendants, resulting in dismissal after a period of probation. The specific avenues depend on the facts of the case and the accused’s prior record.

Do I need a lawyer for a gun charge in Chesapeake?

Yes. Even a misdemeanor gun conviction creates a permanent record that can affect employment, housing, and firearm rights. A felony conviction carries years in prison and a lifetime ban on possessing firearms under federal law. An experienced attorney can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate for a reduction, and present mitigating factors. Because the Chesapeake courts follow specific local procedures, an attorney who regularly appears in the General District and Circuit Courts is in the best position to protect your rights. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What is the difference between the General District Court and Circuit Court for a gun case in Chesapeake?

The Chesapeake General District Court hears misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings, while the Chesapeake Circuit Court handles all felony jury trials and appeals from the GDC. In General District Court, there is no jury; a judge decides guilt. If a case is a felony, the preliminary hearing in GDC determines whether probable cause exists to certify the case to Circuit Court. In Circuit Court, the defendant has the right to a jury trial and the judge may have more sentencing options. An attorney can advise on the strategic choices at each stage.

How do I find a gun crime lawyer near Chesapeake?

Look for a defense attorney who understands Virginia’s firearms statutes and regularly appears in the Chesapeake General District and Circuit Courts. The firm’s Richmond location serves clients throughout Chesapeake and Hampton Roads. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are available to discuss your case and explain your options. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.

Additional resources:

Virginia firearms statutes and Chesapeake court information:

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.