Gun Crime Lawyer New Kent County — Defending Your Rights and Future
A firearms charge in New Kent County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict gun laws. As a gun crime lawyer New Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients against charges like possession by a felon, concealed carry violations, and brandishing. Our firm has documented results in the local courts. We provide 24/7 consultations to protect your rights and future.
Virginia Gun Laws and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia categorizes firearms offenses under Title 18.2 of the state code. A common and severe charge is possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2. This is a Class 6 felony, punishable by a mandatory minimum of two years in prison. Other charges include carrying a concealed weapon without a permit (§ 18.2-308) and reckless handling of a firearm (§ 18.2-56.1), which are Class 1 misdemeanors. The specific statute applied depends on the alleged conduct and the defendant’s criminal history.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s firearms statutes, refer to the official Virginia law portal for Title 18.2, Chapter 7. Court procedures and local rules for New Kent County can be found on the Virginia Courts website for New Kent County.
handling a New Kent County Gun Charge
In New Kent County, gun charges begin with an arrest or summons. The case is initially heard in New Kent County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings for felonies. The Commonwealth’s Attorney aggressively prosecutes these cases. A strong defense often involves challenging the legality of the search that discovered the firearm, the chain of custody of the evidence, or the intent behind the alleged act. For a firearms offense defense lawyer New Kent County, early intervention is critical to protect your rights during the investigation phase.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a defense attorney immediately after arrest or receiving a summons. Do not speak to investigators without counsel.
- Case Review & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation or Trial: Work toward a favorable plea agreement that may reduce charges or, if necessary, prepare for a bench or jury trial in New Kent County Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, advocate for the most lenient sentence possible under the law or file an appeal if legal errors occurred.
Potential Penalties for Gun Crimes in Virginia
In New Kent County, gun crime penalties range from fines and jail time for misdemeanors to multi-year prison sentences for felonies, with some charges carrying mandatory minimums.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession by Convicted Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory 2-year min, 1-5 years max | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights permanently | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (Va. Code § 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Potential loss of concealed carry permit | Misdemeanor record |
| Reckless Handling of Firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-56.1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Potential civil liability |
| Brandishing a Firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-282) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Can be enhanced if on school property |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
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 tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in courts across Virginia, including New Kent County. Our team understands the high stakes of a gun charge and builds defenses focused on evidence, procedure, and your rights.
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 approach to gun charge defense is proactive and detailed. For instance, in a recent case, our attorneys successfully argued for the suppression of a firearm found during an unlawful vehicle search, skilled to the dismissal of felony possession charges. In another matter, we negotiated a reduction from a felony to a misdemeanor charge for a first-time offender, avoiding a prison sentence. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight with his multi-state experience and background in accounting and information systems, which aids in cases involving financial or technical evidence.
Gun Crime Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We provide legal representation to residents of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gun Crime Defense
What should I do if I’m arrested on a gun charge in New Kent County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not answer questions or make statements to police. Contact a gun crime lawyer New Kent County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Can I get a concealed carry charge dismissed in Virginia?
It depends. Dismissal is possible if the weapon was not truly concealed, if you had a valid permit, or if the stop/search was illegal. An experienced firearms offense defense lawyer New Kent County can evaluate the specifics of your case.
What is the mandatory minimum for a felon with a gun in VA?
Two years. Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of two years for possession of a firearm by a convicted violent felon. This cannot be suspended by the judge.
How can a lawyer help with a gun charge defense?
A gun charge defense lawyer New Kent County can challenge the legality of the search, question evidence handling, negotiate for reduced charges, or take the case to trial. Early legal intervention is crucial to protect your rights and explore all defense options.
Are there defenses to reckless handling of a firearm?
Yes. Defenses can include lack of criminal intent, accident, or that the handling was not truly “reckless” under the law. The specific circumstances of the incident are key to building a defense.
Related Pages: For other legal needs, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub, or learn about DUI defense in New Kent County. We also serve neighboring areas like Henrico County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a consultation.