Concealed Weapon Lawyer Arlington County, VA
If you are facing a concealed weapon charge in Arlington County, Virginia, you need an attorney who understands how these cases are handled in the local courts. A conviction can mean jail time, fines, and a criminal record that affects your ability to possess firearms. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Under Virginia law, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class 6 felony for a second or subsequent offense.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-308. Va. Code § 18.2-308
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
What a Concealed Weapon Charge Means in Arlington County
Arlington County prosecutes carrying a concealed weapon under the same state statute that governs all of Virginia, but the case will move through the county’s specific court system. A first-offense misdemeanor is heard in the Arlington County General District Court, while a felony charge (second or subsequent offense) proceeds to the Arlington County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes these cases, and plea bargaining is permitted under the Virginia Supreme Court Rule 3A:8. The court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400, Arlington, VA 22201 handles all criminal matters for the county.
Our Arlington location, at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209, is by appointment only. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly in both the General District Court and Circuit Court, bringing extensive experience in defending weapons charges to your case. In Arlington County criminal cases, the firm has documented 21 results with 11 dismissed or not guilty and 10 reduced or amended—a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Concealed Weapon Cases
Defending a concealed weapon charge begins with a careful examination of the stop, search, and arrest. If law enforcement lacked reasonable suspicion or probable cause, that evidence may be challenged. The defense also evaluates whether the weapon was truly “hidden from common observation” under Va. Code § 18.2-308 and whether any statutory exception—such as a valid concealed handgun permit—applies. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work with you to develop a strategy that may include negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, raising procedural deficiencies, or taking the case to trial.
Cases in Arlington County often proceed through a preliminary hearing in the General District Court for felony charges. The timeline is set by the court’s calendar and the complexity of the matter. Throughout the process, you will be kept informed of developments and your legal options. If a resolution short of trial is attainable, the firm pursues it vigorously; if trial is necessary, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have the litigation experience to advocate for you in the courtroom.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal defense since 1997. He is 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 includes attorneys with deep backgrounds—including a former Virginia State Trooper—who bring a combined over 120 years of legal experience to each matter. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the charge of carrying a concealed weapon in Virginia?
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a crime under Va. Code § 18.2-308. A first offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second or subsequent offense becomes a Class 6 felony, carrying a prison sentence of one to five years. The charge applies when a firearm or other prohibited weapon is “hidden from common observation.” Having a valid Virginia concealed handgun permit is an affirmative defense. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against concealed weapon charges?
Defense strategies often focus on the legality of the search and seizure, whether the weapon was truly concealed, and whether an exception applied. An experienced attorney may challenge the officer’s probable cause, negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced charge, or present mitigating evidence. Each case is fact-specific, and early involvement of counsel is critical. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate the circumstances under Va. Code § 18.2-308 to build the strong $1.
What should I do if I am facing a concealed weapon charge in Arlington County?
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone other than your lawyer, and do not make statements to law enforcement without counsel present. Preserve any relevant documents or evidence. The court deadlines in Virginia require prompt action, and the outcome of your case can affect your criminal record and firearm rights. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can I get a concealed handgun permit to resolve my case?
Obtaining a Virginia concealed handgun permit after being charged may not automatically dismiss the pending case. The permit serves as a defense if you had a valid permit at the time of the alleged offense. For current charges, the court will consider whether you qualified for a permit and whether any statutory exceptions applied. An attorney can advise you on how to present this defense effectively.
What are the potential consequences of a concealed weapon conviction?
Beyond jail time and fines, a conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, loss of firearm rights, and difficulties with employment, housing, and professional licensing. A felony conviction carries additional consequences, including the inability to possess firearms under federal law. Early legal intervention may increase the opportunity to seek a reduction or dismissal of the charge. Results may vary.
How does the court process work for a concealed weapon case in Arlington County?
After an arrest, you will have an initial appearance in the Arlington County General District Court. For misdemeanors, a trial date is set. For felony charges, a preliminary hearing is held, and if probable cause is found, the case is sent to the Arlington County Circuit Court for trial. Throughout the process, your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor, file motions, and explore alternative dispositions. The timeline varies based on the court’s calendar and case complexity.
Learn about criminal defense in nearby localities: Fairfax County criminal lawyer · Prince William County criminal defense · Loudoun County criminal attorney
Primary sources: Virginia Code Title 18.2 · Virginia Courts · SCC Business Entity Filings
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.