Gun Crime Lawyer Alexandria, VA

Facing a gun crime charge in Alexandria, Virginia, can upend your life. A conviction may bring incarceration, fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and firearm rights. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates part of its practice on defending individuals against weapons-related charges in Alexandria’s General District and Circuit Courts. Our experienced multi-state attorneys understand Virginia’s firearms statutes and the local court procedures that shape how a gun case unfolds. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team work to build a thorough defense and pursue favorable outcomes for each client. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209, serves clients from Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, Kingstowne, and surrounding communities. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Gun Crime Charges Mean in Alexandria

Alexandria sits in the Eighteenth Judicial District. Misdemeanor gun charges, such as a first-offense carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, are heard in the Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street, 2nd Floor. Felony-level charges—for instance, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon or using a firearm in the commission of a violent crime—proceed through a preliminary hearing in General District Court and then to the Alexandria Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria prosecutes these matters.

Virginia’s firearms laws carry serious penalties. Under Va. Code § 18.2-308, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor on a first offense, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Subsequent offenses can be charged as felonies. Under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, a convicted felon who possesses a firearm faces a Class 6 felony, with a potential sentence of one to five years, or up to 12 months in jail at the discretion of the jury. If the underlying felony was a violent crime and the firearm was loaded, a mandatory minimum of five years may apply. Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) may also arise when the defendant has prior disqualifying convictions, and those cases are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. The firm’s attorneys are experienced at handling both state and federal firearms matters.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Gun Crime Cases

When a client faces a gun charge, the defense begins with a careful examination of the facts and the law. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel review the circumstances of the police encounter—whether the stop, search, or seizure complied with the Fourth Amendment—and assess any statements the client may have made. They scrutinize the evidence for procedural weaknesses, including chain-of-custody issues and the reliability of witness identifications.

The team also evaluates whether the charge is properly classified. For example, an alleged concealed weapon may not meet the statutory definition under Virginia law, or the firearm may not have been “about the person” as required by case law. In appropriate situations, they negotiate with the prosecutor to seek an amendment to a less serious offense or pursue a deferred disposition. Throughout the process, the firm advises the client on the collateral consequences of a conviction, including the loss of firearm rights and the impact on professional licenses or immigration status.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

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 is admitted to practice 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).

Supporting Mr. Sris is his Of Counsel team, which includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement service. This background provides the team firsthand insight into police procedures, investigative techniques, and firearms-related investigations. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. They serve clients in Alexandria and throughout Northern Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Penalties range from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine) for a first-time concealed weapon charge to a Class 6 felony (1‑5 years) for felon‑in‑possession, with potential mandatory minimums for certain violent prior convictions. The exact penalty depends on the specific statute, the defendant’s criminal history, and whether the offense is charged in state or federal court. For example, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor on a first offense, while a second offense becomes a Class 6 felony. Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 is a Class 6 felony, but if the prior felony was violent and the firearm was loaded, the mandatory minimum is five years. Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) can carry even steeper sentences, with no parole in the federal system. An experienced attorney can explain the potential consequences specific to your case.

Can a gun charge be expunged in Alexandria?

Virginia generally allows expungement only for charges that ended in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi; most convictions cannot be expunged. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, a person whose charge was dismissed or who was found not guilty may petition the Alexandria Circuit Court to expunge police and court records. If you received a deferred disposition and successfully completed probation, the charge may be dismissed, making expungement possible. Convictions, however, remain on your record unless you obtain a pardon. A lawyer can review your case and determine whether expungement is available.

What is the difference between state and federal gun crime charges in Alexandria?

State charges are prosecuted by the Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney in General District or Circuit Court, while federal charges are brought by the U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia under statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) and can carry harsher sentences with no parole. Federal cases typically involve conduct that crosses state lines or implicates a federal interest, such as a felon in possession of a firearm that traveled in interstate commerce. Federal sentencing guidelines are complex and often include mandatory minimums. Defending a federal gun charge requires familiarity with federal court procedures and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. The firm handles both state and federal firearms cases.

Do I need a lawyer for a gun crime charge in Alexandria?

Yes, you should have a lawyer represent you even for a misdemeanor gun charge, because a conviction can result in jail time, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of your right to possess firearms. A lawyer can evaluate whether the police followed proper procedures, whether the evidence can be challenged, and whether diversion or a reduction in charges is possible. Early representation also helps protect your rights during bail hearings and plea negotiations. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.

How does bail work for a gun charge in Alexandria?

A magistrate sets bail shortly after arrest, and the amount depends on factors including the severity of the charge, the defendant’s criminal history, and ties to the community. For a first-time misdemeanor gun offense, the magistrate may release the defendant on personal recognizance. For a felony charge, secured bond is more common. If bond is set too high, a lawyer can ask the Alexandria General District Court to reconsider the amount at a bond hearing. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss the specifics of your situation.

Internal Resources
Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer
Prince William County criminal defense attorney
Manassas criminal defense lawyer

Primary Source Authority
Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses)
Alexandria General District Court

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.