Concealed Weapon Lawyer Manassas Park, VA
When you face a concealed weapon charge in Manassas Park, Virginia, the stakes can be high. A conviction under Virginia Code § 18.2‑308 can result in jail time, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of your right to carry a firearm. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates its practice on defending individuals against concealed weapon allegations in the Manassas Park General District Court and, when necessary, the Manassas Park Circuit Court. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, leads a team that includes an Of Counsel with years of law‑enforcement experience. The firm’s Fairfax location serves clients throughout the Manassas Park area, and we regularly appear at the courthouse at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230. We understand how the Commonwealth prosecutes these cases and work to build a well‑prepared defense for each client. For a consultation about your specific situation, contact our firm at (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Concealed Weapon Charges Mean in Manassas Park
Virginia law defines carrying a concealed weapon as having a firearm or certain other dangerous weapons on your person, hidden from common observation, without a valid concealed handgun permit. The offense is generally a Class 1 misdemeanor for a first conviction, but a second or subsequent offense becomes a Class 6 felony. Manassas Park General District Court has jurisdiction over misdemeanor trials, while felony concealed weapon cases are heard in the Manassas Park Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing in the district court.
Under Virginia Code § 18.2‑308, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor for a first offense, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2‑308 (verified). Virginia Code § 18.2‑308
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
A second or subsequent offense of carrying a concealed weapon is a Class 6 felony, punishable by imprisonment of one to five years, or at the discretion of the jury, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2‑308 (verified). Virginia Code § 18.2‑308
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
In Manassas Park, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes concealed weapon cases, and the judge presides over the matter. A person charged with this offense may be eligible for first‑offender programs if the facts allow, though eligibility depends on the specific circumstances and the court’s discretion. An acquittal or dismissal may also open the door to expungement under Virginia Code § 19.2‑392.2, but most convictions cannot be expunged. Because the consequences of a concealed weapon charge extend beyond the courtroom—affecting employment, professional licenses, and firearm rights—many individuals choose to have experienced counsel by their side.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Concealed Weapon Cases
Defending a concealed weapon charge requires a careful examination of the traffic stop, the search that led to the discovery of the weapon, and whether the item was actually concealed from ordinary observation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team review every step of the arresting officer’s conduct. Did the officer have reasonable suspicion to initiate the stop? Was the search lawful? Did the person have a valid concealed handgun permit that was simply not presented at the time of the encounter? These are the kinds of questions the team explores in each case.
The Of Counsel team includes a former Virginia State Trooper, which provides insight into how police officers build their reports and what investigative procedures should have been followed. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, understands how the Commonwealth approaches charging decisions and what arguments the prosecution is likely to make. Together, the team works to identify weaknesses in the state’s case and to present mitigating evidence when appropriate. The firm does not promise a particular outcome, but the focus is always on developing a thorough, well‑prepared defense tailored to the facts of the individual case.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. He is a former prosecutor who now leads a multi‑state firm admitted 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). His Of Counsel team is composed of experienced attorneys engaged through Excella, and it includes professionals with backgrounds in prosecution and law enforcement.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience, contributing to 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. The firm’s Fairfax location serves clients throughout the Manassas Park area, and consultations are available by appointment. Contact our location at (888) 437‑7747 to discuss your concealed weapon matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for carrying a concealed weapon in Manassas Park, Virginia?
If you are convicted of a first‑offense carrying of a concealed weapon, the penalty is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which means you could face up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. A second or subsequent offense is a Class 6 felony, carrying a sentence of one to five years in prison. The specific penalty is influenced by your prior record and the facts of the case. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Can a concealed weapon charge be expunged in Virginia?
Virginia law allows expungement of a concealed weapon charge only if the case ends in an acquittal, a nolle prosequi, or a dismissal. If you are convicted—even of a misdemeanor—the charge generally cannot be expunged. However, a deferred disposition that results in dismissal may also make expungement possible. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a concealed weapon charge in Manassas Park?
Hiring an experienced attorney is strongly recommended. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of your right to carry a firearm. An attorney can evaluate whether the stop and search were lawful, whether you hold a valid permit, and whether there are grounds to seek a reduction or dismissal. The earlier counsel becomes involved, the greater the opportunity to prepare a thorough defense.
What if I have a concealed handgun permit?
A valid concealed handgun permit is a complete defense to a charge under Va. Code § 18.2‑308, so long as you were carrying the firearm in a manner and location consistent with the permit’s terms. If you had a permit at the time but were unable to present it to the officer, the charge may still be defensible. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can help document the permit and present it to the court. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.
How does the court process work for a concealed weapon charge in Manassas Park?
After an arrest, you will appear before a magistrate who sets bond. Your case is then scheduled in the Manassas Park General District Court on the court’s calendar. At the arraignment and any subsequent hearing, you have the right to be represented by counsel. If the matter is a misdemeanor, the trial will occur in the district court; if it is a felony, a preliminary hearing will be held there first, and the case may later be certified to the Manassas Park Circuit Court.
Related pages: Prince William County Criminal Lawyer | Manassas City Criminal Lawyer | Fairfax County Criminal Defense | Falls Church Criminal Attorney
Virginia legal resources: Virginia Code § 18.2‑308 · Manassas Park General District Court · Virginia Courts
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