Firearm by Felon Lawyer Rappahannock County, VA

If you are facing a charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 — possession of a firearm by a convicted felon — the stakes are high. Conviction carries mandatory minimum incarceration in many situations and permanently labels you a felon. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys represent individuals charged with firearm by felon offenses in Rappahannock County General District Court and Rappahannock County Circuit Court. We understand how the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases and work to protect your rights at every stage. To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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Firearm by Felon Charges in Rappahannock County

Virginia law prohibits any person convicted of a felony from knowingly and intentionally possessing or transporting a firearm. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, makes this a Class 6 felony, punishable by one to five years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail at the discretion of a jury. Where the prior felony conviction was for a violent felony within the last ten years, a two‑year mandatory minimum sentence applies; if the firearm was loaded, that minimum rises to five years. Even a single conviction means a lifetime firearm prohibition and the loss of federal firearms rights under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g).

Rappahannock County prosecutes firearm‑by‑felon cases through the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Charges are often the result of traffic stops, domestic calls, or investigations by the Rappahannock County Sheriff’s Office or Virginia State Police. Because Rappahannock is a rural county served by the Twentieth Judicial District, judges may travel from surrounding circuits, and court practices reflect a close‑knit legal community. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear regularly at the Rappahannock County General District Court, located at 250 Gay Street, Suite 1, Washington, VA 22747, where felony preliminary hearings are conducted, and at the Rappahannock County Circuit Court for trials. Familiarity with the local court personnel and prosecutorial approach is essential, and the firm draws on its experience in the region to build a thorough defense.

Rappahannock County General District Court is currently presided over by Hon. Lorrie Ann Sinclair Taylor. Court hours: Mon-Fri 8:00AM-4:00PM. Counsel appearing on criminal matters should plan filings accordingly.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Firearm by Felon Cases

When we represent someone facing a firearm‑by‑felon charge, the first step is to examine the legality of the stop, detention, and any search that produced the firearm. A motion to suppress evidence can be the difference between dismissal and conviction. We scrutinize the chain of custody of the weapon and any forensic testing. If the prosecution cannot prove that you knowingly possessed the firearm — and that you had a prior felony conviction — the charge may be reduced or dismissed.

We also explore whether the prior felony disqualifies you under the statute. Not every felony triggers § 18.2‑308.2; the conviction must be a predicate offense. Restoration of firearm rights through the Governor’s clemency process may be available in some cases, and we evaluate whether that avenue can affect the current charge. Because mandatory minimum sentences apply, plea negotiations must consider the exact prior record. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. We focus on obtaining the most favorable resolution under the specific facts of your case.

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 testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include practitioners with extensive experience in Virginia criminal defense, including former law enforcement backgrounds. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to firearm‑by‑felon defense. Results may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a lawyer defend against firearm by felon charges in Rappahannock County?

Defense strategies in Rappahannock County often examine whether the police had a lawful basis to stop or search you, whether the firearm was actually in your possession, and whether the prior felony conviction qualifies under the statute. A successful motion to suppress can end the case. Attorneys also evaluate whether the firearm was loaded, which affects mandatory minimum sentencing, and whether any exception applies. Each defense is tailored to the facts. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What should I do if I am facing firearm by felon charges in Rappahannock County?

Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately and do not discuss the facts of the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any documents, photos, or text messages that may be relevant. If you have been arrested, remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. The sooner we can evaluate the evidence, the more options we may have. To discuss your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What are the penalties for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Virginia?

Under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, the offense is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years imprisonment, or up to 12 months in jail at the discretion of a jury. A mandatory minimum of 2 years applies if the prior felony was a violent felony within the last ten years; the mandatory minimum rises to 5 years if the firearm was loaded. The conviction also carries a permanent prohibition on firearm ownership.

Can a convicted felon ever regain firearm rights in Virginia?

Yes, through a petition to the Governor for restoration of firearm rights. The process requires a showing of rehabilitation and is fact‑specific. If restoration is granted, it can remove the disability for future possession. This remedy does not automatically affect a pending charge, but it can be relevant post‑conviction. To learn more, request a consultation at (888) 437-7747.

What court in Rappahannock County handles firearm by felon cases?

Felony charges under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 begin with a preliminary hearing in Rappahannock County General District Court (250 Gay Street, Suite 1, Washington, VA 22747). If the case proceeds, a trial is held in Rappahannock County Circuit Court. You have the right to a jury trial in Circuit Court. Our counsel are familiar with both courts and the Twentieth Judicial District’s procedures.

Do I need a lawyer for a firearm by felon charge in Rappahannock County?

Yes, because the consequences of a conviction include mandatory incarceration, a felony record, and a lifetime gun ban. Rappahannock County prosecutors treat these cases seriously. An experienced attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and protect your rights. To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Official Virginia Legal Resources:
Va. Code § 18.2‑308.2 |
Rappahannock County Courts |
Virginia’s Judicial System

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