Concealed Firearm Defense Lawyer in Virginia
Carrying a concealed firearm without a valid permit is a serious crime in Virginia, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-308. A conviction can result in up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and the permanent loss of your right to possess firearms.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Statewide | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia law strictly regulates the concealed carry of firearms. The primary statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308, makes it unlawful for any person to carry about his person, hidden from common observation, any pistol, revolver, or other weapon designed or intended to propel a missile of any kind. Exceptions exist for individuals with a valid concealed handgun permit issued by the Virginia State Police or a recognized out-of-state permit, and for certain other specific circumstances outlined in the law. A firearms violation lawyer Virginia can explain if an exception applies to your case.
Prosecutors in Virginia take illegal concealed carry charges seriously. In many jurisdictions, they may seek the maximum penalty, especially if the charge is coupled with other offenses. An illegal concealed carry defense lawyer Virginia from our firm will examine every detail of your stop, the search, and the arrest. We challenge the legality of the police encounter and the seizure of the weapon. Was there probable cause for the stop? Was the weapon truly “concealed” as defined by law? Did you have a valid permit that was not recognized? We build your defense on these procedural grounds and case-specific facts.
- Contact our firm immediately after an arrest or receiving a summons.
- Our attorneys will obtain all police reports, body camera footage, and discovery materials.
- We will file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated during the search.
- We negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, often seeking to have the charge reduced or dismissed.
- If a favorable plea cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial before a judge or jury.
In Virginia, a concealed firearm violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, with mandatory loss of firearm rights upon conviction.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory loss of right to possess a firearm | Permanent criminal record |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (Subsequent Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory loss of right to possess a firearm | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon on School Property | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory loss of right to possess a firearm | Enhanced penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we provide a full, aggressive defense for clients facing weapons charges across Virginia. We understand the severe, long-term consequences of a conviction and fight to protect your rights, your record, and your future.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable results in firearms cases. For example, we have successfully argued for the suppression of illegally obtained evidence, skilled to dismissals. In other cases, we have negotiated reductions from felony to misdemeanor charges. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which aids in cases involving technical or financial evidence.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients across Virginia, including those facing charges in courts from Northern Virginia to the Tidewater region. We are a concealed firearm defense lawyer Virginia near you, ready to provide a consultation by appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Virginia?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and the mandatory loss of your right to possess any firearm.
Can I get a concealed weapons charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement is generally available only if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or the case was nolle prossed. A conviction for carrying a concealed weapon cannot be expunged under current Virginia law.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time concealed carry charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor conviction carries jail time, a significant fine, and the permanent loss of your firearm rights. An illegal concealed carry defense lawyer Virginia can work to get the charge reduced or dismissed.
What if the police found the gun during an illegal search?
If the weapon was discovered during a search that violated your Fourth Amendment rights, a firearms violation lawyer Virginia can file a motion to suppress the evidence. If successful, the prosecution’s case often collapses, skilled to a dismissal.
How does a former prosecutor help my concealed firearm case?
Former prosecutors, like those at our firm, understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. This insider perspective allows us to anticipate strategies, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and negotiate more effectively from a position of strength.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current guidance on your concealed firearm charge, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a consultation by appointment.