Gun Crime Lawyer Lexington, VA
Gun crime charges in Lexington, Virginia carry serious consequences including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Whether you are facing a concealed weapon violation, a felon-in-possession allegation, or any other firearms offense, the stakes are high. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends individuals charged with gun crimes in Lexington General District Court and Lexington Circuit Court. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to these matters. To discuss your situation, contact the firm at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Gun Crime Means in Lexington
In Lexington, gun crime prosecutions are handled by the Commonwealth’s Attorney in the Twenty-fifth Judicial District. The city’s two primary courts—General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary felony hearings, and Circuit Court for felony trials—both located at 2 South Main Street—hear firearms cases. A conviction can affect not only liberty but also future employment, firearm rights, and professional licenses. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients throughout the Lexington area, appearing regularly in these courts.
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor for a first offense under Va. Code § 18.2-308, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-308. Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, carrying a potential sentence of one to five years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail at the discretion of the jury.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
Other common firearm charges include brandishing a firearm, reckless handling of a firearm, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Virginia’s firearm laws carry mandatory minimum sentences in certain circumstances, and a conviction may trigger federal firearms disabilities under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). An experienced defense attorney works to challenge the constitutionality of the stop, the seizure of evidence, and the witness testimony. The firm’s approach is tailored to the specific facts of each Lexington case.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Gun Crime Cases
When a gun crime charge is filed in Lexington, the legal team immediately begins examining the prosecution’s case. This includes reviewing the arrest report, any search warrant affidavits, and witness statements. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Leverages extensive combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys to identify Fourth Amendment violations, procedural errors, and factual weaknesses. In General District Court, misdemeanor trials move relatively quickly; in Circuit Court, felony cases require thorough preparation for jury trial or negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys understand the tactical realities of firearms prosecutions. They work to negotiate amended charges where possible—for example, seeking a reduction from a felon-in-possession charge to a misdemeanor or, in appropriate cases, a dismissal. If the case proceeds to trial, the defense presents a vigorous challenge to the evidence, calling upon expert testimony when needed. Throughout the process, clients are kept informed and involved in strategic decisions. Results may vary.
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 who has practiced since 1997. He is admitted in 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). His experience provides insight into how the Commonwealth builds its case, which directly benefits clients facing firearms charges in Lexington.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include practitioners with backgrounds in law enforcement and extensive criminal defense work. Together, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to every gun crime matter. They appear regularly in Lexington General District Court and Lexington Circuit Court, representing individuals throughout the Shenandoah Valley. Consultations are by appointment; reach the firm at (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common gun crime charges in Lexington, Virginia?
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and brandishing a firearm are frequently prosecuted gun crimes in Lexington. These charges can be misdemeanors or felonies depending on the offense and the defendant’s record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends against all types of firearms allegations in Lexington courts.
Discharging a firearm at an occupied building or vehicle is a Class 4 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-279, with a mandatory minimum of one year if done maliciously.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-279. Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
What are the penalties for a gun crime conviction in Lexington?
Penalties range from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine) to a Class 4 felony (2 to 10 years in prison) depending on the specific charge. Repeat offenses and crimes involving injury or threat of injury can result in harsher sentences. Federal law may also impose additional restrictions, such as a lifetime ban on firearm possession. An experienced defense attorney works to minimize the consequences. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can a gun crime charge be expunged in Lexington?
Virginia allows expungement only for charges that resulted in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, a conviction cannot be expunged. If your case ends favorably, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys can pursue a petition in Lexington Circuit Court to seal the record. For more details about your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am arrested on a gun charge in Lexington?
Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the facts with law enforcement or anyone else. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to arrange a consultation. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys can advise you on bond, the court process, and potential defenses before your first hearing at Lexington General District Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a gun crime in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. A conviction for a firearms offense can lead to incarceration, fines, a criminal record, and a permanent loss of your right to own a firearm. Even a misdemeanor charge has long-term repercussions. Legal guidance early in the process helps protect your rights and build a strong defense. To speak with an experienced attorney, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How can an attorney defend against a gun crime charge?
Defense strategies may include challenging the legality of the traffic stop or search, arguing the weapon was not concealed, or asserting that the defendant did not know the firearm was present. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys examine the chain of custody and forensic evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce or dismiss charges, and prepare for trial when necessary. Reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your case.
Related practice areas:
Fairfax County criminal lawyer |
Fairfax City criminal defense |
Falls Church criminal attorney |
Prince William County criminal lawyer |
Manassas criminal defense
Primary legal resources:
Virginia Code Title 18.2 – Crimes and Offenses Generally |
Lexington General District and Circuit Courts
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