Gun Crime Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A gun crime charge in Henrico County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict firearms laws. As a Class 1 misdemeanor or felony, a conviction can mean jail time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing firearms charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Gun Crime Laws and Penalties
Virginia law categorizes various firearms offenses, from illegal possession to use in a felony. Key statutes include Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (possession of a firearm by a convicted felon) and § 18.2-53.1 (use of a firearm in commission of a felony). These charges are prosecuted aggressively by the Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. The specific penalties depend on the charge’s classification, your criminal history, and the circumstances of the alleged offense.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- File pre-trial motions to challenge the legality of the stop, search, or seizure of the firearm.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal based on evidence weaknesses.
- Prepare for trial in Henrico County General District Court (misdemeanors) or Circuit Court (felonies) if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- Explore all post-trial options, including appeals or expungement if eligible.
External Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s firearms statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2, Chapter 7). For information on Henrico County court procedures and locations, refer to the Henrico County General District Court official site.
Potential Penalties for Firearms Offenses in Henrico County
In Henrico County, gun crimes carry severe penalties ranging from mandatory minimum prison sentences for felonies to significant jail time for misdemeanors.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years; up to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Felony record; ineligible for expungement |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon Without Permit (Va. Code § 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Potential loss of concealed carry permit | Misdemeanor record |
| Use of Firearm in Commission of Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1) | Separate Felony | Mandatory minimum 3 years (consecutive to underlying felony sentence) | Court discretion | Loss of firearm rights | Significant enhancement of total sentence |
| Reckless Handling of Firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-56.1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible | Civil liability if injury or damage occurs |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Henrico County Gun Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of a firearms charge and the specific procedures of Henrico County courts. Our approach involves a meticulous review of the prosecution’s evidence, challenging constitutional violations like illegal searches, and presenting a strong case for our clients.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our commitment to client defense is reflected in our documented results. In Henrico County, we have secured favorable outcomes in criminal cases. For instance, our team has successfully argued for the suppression of evidence obtained without proper warrant, skilled to charge reductions or dismissals. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, brings additional strategic oversight to complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Gun Crime Lawyer Near Henrico County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Henrico County courts (4301 East Parham Road). We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. If you need a firearms offense defense lawyer Henrico County, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve communities in and around Henrico County, including Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gun Crime Defense in Henrico County
What should I do if I’m arrested on a gun charge in Henrico County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with your attorney. Contact a gun crime lawyer Henrico County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Can evidence from an illegal search be used against me?
No. If the police did not have a valid warrant or probable cause to search you or your property, your attorney can file a motion to suppress the firearm as evidence. This is a common and powerful defense strategy in gun cases.
What is the difference between a gun charge in GDC and Circuit Court?
Misdemeanor gun charges, like carrying concealed without a permit, are tried in Henrico County General District Court. Felony charges, like possession by a felon, begin with a preliminary hearing in GDC but are tried by a jury in Henrico County Circuit Court, where penalties are more severe.
Are there defenses to a felony firearm possession charge?
Yes. Defenses can include challenging the legality of the stop or search, proving you were not in possession, arguing mistaken identity, or, in rare cases, establishing that your civil rights had been restored. A skilled gun charge defense lawyer Henrico County can evaluate all possible defenses.
How can a lawyer help with a gun charge?
A lawyer protects your rights, negotiates with prosecutors, files motions to challenge evidence, advises you on plea options, and provides vigorous representation at trial. An experienced attorney can often identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that may lead to a better outcome.
Internal Resources
For more information on criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges in Henrico County, explore our services for DUI defense or family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.