Gun Crime Lawyer Manassas, VA
In Manassas, Virginia, firearms-related criminal charges are taken seriously by both law enforcement and prosecutors. Whether you are facing allegations of carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, or any other weapons offense, the potential consequences—including incarceration, fines, and a lasting criminal record—can disrupt your life and your future. Cases are typically initiated in the Manassas General District Court, with felony matters proceeding to the Manassas Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas prosecutes these cases, and experienced defense counsel is essential at every stage. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals in Manassas and throughout Northern Virginia in gun crime defense. With Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team including a former Virginia State Trooper, the firm brings a nuanced understanding of how firearms charges are investigated and litigated. To request a consultation, reach the firm at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Gun Crime Charges Mean in Manassas
Gun crime charges in Manassas cover a range of offenses under the Virginia Code. Common charges include carrying a concealed weapon (Va. Code § 18.2-308), possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (§ 18.2-308.2), and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Other statutes address brandishing, reckless handling, and shooting into occupied dwellings. The classification of the offense determines where it is heard: misdemeanors are adjudicated in the Manassas General District Court, while felonies are initially addressed in preliminary hearings in the General District Court and then transferred to the Manassas Circuit Court for trial. The court at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110 serves as the venue for these proceedings.
A conviction can carry significant penalties. For example, a first offense of carrying a concealed weapon is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. A second concealed weapon offense becomes a Class 6 felony, with a potential sentence of one to five years. Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony, and if the prior conviction was a violent felony within the past ten years, a mandatory minimum of two years applies. The full impact of a conviction extends beyond incarceration—it can affect employment, professional licensing, and federal firearm rights. In Manassas, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases, and defendants have the right to a jury trial in Circuit Court. Early involvement of defense counsel can help identify procedural issues and work toward a favorable resolution.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Gun Crime Cases
Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to the defense of gun crime allegations in Manassas. The firm has handled numerous cases; Results may vary. and prior outcomes do not guarantee a similar result. Their approach begins with a thorough review of the arrest and investigation: examining the legality of the stop, the search, and any statements made by the accused. Because gun cases often involve searches of vehicles or persons, constitutional protections under the Fourth and Fifth Amendments can be pivotal. The firm’s attorneys are experienced in identifying violations of these rights and in moving to suppress evidence where appropriate. They also work with clients to explore any available defenses—such as lack of knowledge of the weapon, mistaken identity, or lawful possession under a concealed handgun permit—and to negotiate with the prosecutor when a resolution short of trial may be in the client’s interest.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include a former Virginia State Trooper with over a decade of law enforcement experience, offering insight into the procedures and investigative techniques that law enforcement agencies in Virginia employ. This background helps the legal team anticipate the prosecution’s strategy and scrutinize the handling of evidence, chain of custody, and officer reports. Whether the case is a misdemeanor in Manassas General District Court or a felony proceeding in Circuit Court, Mr. Sris and the firm work to protect the client’s rights and to build a defense that addresses the specific facts of the case. They understand the local court practices and the importance of direct communication with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. To discuss your gun crime matter, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., which he established in 1997. A former prosecutor, he has practiced in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York for decades. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His background provides a firsthand perspective on how criminal cases are built by the prosecution, a perspective that directly informs his defense strategy for clients facing gun crime charges in Manassas.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include lawyers with prior careers in law enforcement, which gives the firm the ability to evaluate the police work underlying a firearms charge. This collective experience means that when a client needs representation in Manassas General District Court or Circuit Court, the defense is grounded in a thorough understanding of both the statutes and the practical realities of law enforcement. The firm’s attorneys appear regularly in Manassas courts, and they prepare every case as though it will go to trial, while remaining open to negotiated resolutions that serve the client’s best interests. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for carrying a concealed weapon in Virginia?
A first-offense carrying concealed weapon charge in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second conviction becomes a Class 6 felony, carrying a potential sentence of one to five years. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308, also provides an exception for those who hold a valid concealed handgun permit. In Manassas, these charges are heard in Manassas General District Court for a misdemeanor or preliminary hearing, with felony trials in Circuit Court. The firm’s attorneys can review whether any permit exception or other defense applies. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What is a felon-in-possession charge in Virginia?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, it is a Class 6 felony for a convicted felon to knowingly possess a firearm. Penalties range from one to five years, but if the prior felony was a violent offense within the last ten years, a mandatory minimum two-year sentence applies. If the firearm was loaded at the time, the mandatory minimum increases to five years. These cases are prosecuted in Circuit Court because they are felonies. Defense strategies may include challenging whether the defendant knew the firearm was present, whether the prior conviction qualifies as a predicate felony, or whether the search itself was unlawful. Because a conviction also triggers a federal firearm disability under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), the stakes are high. To discuss the specifics of your case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can a gun crime charge be expunged in Manassas?
In Virginia, expungement is available only for charges that result in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi; most convictions cannot be expunged. If your gun crime charge was dismissed or you were found not guilty, you may petition the Manassas Circuit Court to expunge the police and court records under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. For a deferred disposition or diversion (such as a first-offender program), the charge may be dismissed upon successful completion, making expungement possible. The firm can evaluate whether your case qualifies and assist in filing the petition. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a gun crime charge in Manassas?
Yes, because a gun crime conviction can result in jail time, a permanent criminal record, and loss of firearm rights, you need an experienced defense attorney. Even a misdemeanor charge, such as carrying a concealed weapon, can have serious collateral consequences, including difficulty obtaining employment or professional licenses. An attorney can examine the evidence, challenge improper police procedures, and negotiate with the prosecutor. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have handled numerous firearms-related cases and appear regularly in Manassas courts. Early intervention often improves the chance of a favorable outcome. For a case assessment, call (888) 437-7747.
How does the bond process work after a gun crime arrest in Manassas?
After a gun crime arrest in Manassas, a magistrate sets bond—often personal recognizance for a first-offense misdemeanor, but a secured bond for felonies. A bondsman typically charges a percentage of the bond amount. The defendant or counsel can request a bond review at the Manassas General District Court. An attorney can present arguments for reduced bond or pretrial release conditions to allow the defendant to maintain employment and family obligations. To speak with a lawyer about your situation, call (888) 437-7747.
Also explore our related criminal defense pages for nearby jurisdictions: Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer, Prince William County Criminal Defense Lawyer, Manassas Park Criminal Defense Lawyer.
For additional reference, see the official Virginia court and code resources: Manassas General District Court, Virginia Criminal Code (Title 18.2).
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.