Gun Crime Lawyer Hanover County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearms charge in Hanover County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict gun laws. A conviction can mean mandatory prison time, fines, and a permanent felony record. As a gun crime lawyer Hanover County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients against charges like possession by a felon, concealed carry violations, and use in a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia law strictly regulates firearm possession and use. Common charges in Hanover County include possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2), carrying a concealed weapon without a permit (§ 18.2-308), and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony (§ 18.2-53.1). These are not simple misdemeanors; many are felonies with mandatory minimum sentences that a judge cannot suspend. A conviction can permanently strip you of your right to own firearms and create barriers to employment and housing.
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 offense and build a defense focused on challenging the evidence and protecting your future.
Virginia Gun Laws and Hanover County Court Process
Virginia’s gun statutes are complex. For example, Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 makes it a Class 6 felony for any person previously convicted of a felony to possess any firearm. The mandatory minimum punishment is two years in prison. The official statute can be reviewed on the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2). All gun charges in Hanover County begin at the Hanover County General District Court for preliminary hearings, with felonies moving to Circuit Court for trial.
The procedural steps for a gun charge in Hanover County typically follow this path:
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate who sets bond. For gun charges, secured bond is common.
- General District Court Arraignment: You enter a plea. For felonies, this court holds a preliminary hearing to determine if there’s probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains all evidence (police reports, lab tests) and files motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally.
- Circuit Court Proceedings: If indicted, your case proceeds to Hanover County Circuit Court for potential plea negotiations or a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows, often involving mandatory active time for certain firearms offenses.
Potential Penalties for Firearms Offenses in Virginia
In Hanover County, gun crime penalties range from misdemeanor fines to decades in prison, with many felonies carrying mandatory minimum sentences that require active incarceration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory min. 2 years; 1-5 years max | Up to $2,500 | Permanent loss of firearm rights | Felony record; impacts voting, employment |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon w/o Permit (Va. Code § 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Potential loss of permit eligibility | Misdemeanor record |
| Use of Firearm in Commission of Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1) | Separate Felony | Mandatory min. 3 years for first offense; consecutive to other sentences | N/A | Permanent loss of firearm rights | Felony record; severe sentencing enhancement |
| Reckless Handling of Firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-56.1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible | Misdemeanor record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Hanover County Gun Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us unique insight into how the Commonwealth builds gun cases. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients in Central Virginia. Our approach involves meticulously reviewing police procedures, search and seizure legality, and witness statements to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. For a gun charge defense lawyer Hanover County, early case analysis is the key to building an effective strategy.
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 & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In Hanover County, we have achieved results including dismissals and reduced charges for our clients. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Senior attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, maintains a selective caseload on complex matters, supported by a team of seasoned litigators like Bryan Block and Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland prosecutor.
Gun Crime Lawyer Near Hanover County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges in Hanover County courts. We are accessible from I-95 and I-295, serving communities like Mechanicsville, Ashland, and Atlee. If you need a firearms offense defense lawyer Hanover County, contact us 24/7 for a phone consultation. Meetings are by appointment only at our Richmond office.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gun Charges in Hanover County
What is the penalty for a felon in possession of a gun in Virginia?
It is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, with a mandatory minimum of two years in prison. The maximum penalty is 1-5 years and a $2,500 fine. This is a severe charge requiring immediate legal help from a gun crime lawyer Hanover County.
Can I get a concealed carry permit after a gun charge?
It depends. A felony conviction permanently disqualifies you. A misdemeanor conviction may lead to a denial, as the court considers your “character and reputation.” An experienced gun charge defense lawyer Hanover County can advise on your specific situation and potential for restoration of rights.
What should I do if I’m arrested on a gun charge?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a firearms offense defense lawyer Hanover County as soon as possible to begin building your defense and working on bond.
What defenses are available for gun charges?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search or seizure (Fourth Amendment), proving you were not in possession, arguing mistaken identity, or questioning the firearm’s operability. A skilled gun crime lawyer Hanover County will investigate all angles.
How long does a gun case take in Hanover County?
A misdemeanor case in General District Court may resolve in 2-3 months. A felony case, moving from General District to Circuit Court, can take 6 months to over a year, depending on complexity, motions, and trial scheduling.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.