Concealed Weapon Lawyer Arlington County, VA
Facing a concealed weapon charge in Arlington County, Virginia, is a serious legal matter that requires careful legal consideration. Under Va. Code § 18.2‑308, carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit is a criminal offense. A first‑time violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second or subsequent offense is elevated to a Class 6 felony. Cases are prosecuted in the Arlington County General District Court for misdemeanors and the Arlington County Circuit Court for felonies, both located at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Arlington, VA 22201. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals dealing with concealed weapon allegations throughout Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and all surrounding communities. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team — which includes a former Virginia State Trooper — bring extensive experience to these matters. For a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
A first‑offense violation of Va. Code § 18.2‑308 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying a maximum of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine; a second or subsequent offense is a Class 6 felony.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2‑308. Virginia Legislative Information System
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
What a Concealed Weapon Charge Means in Arlington County
In Virginia, a “concealed weapon” is any firearm or other prohibited weapon that is carried on or about the person in a manner hidden from common observation. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes these charges, and the court where your case will be heard depends on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor cases are resolved in the Arlington County General District Court, while felony charges proceed through a preliminary hearing in the General District Court and then, if probable cause is found, are transferred to the Arlington County Circuit Court. The Circuit Court, presided over by a judge, also handles any appeal from a General District Court conviction. The procedural path can be confusing, but an experienced attorney can explain each step and help you understand the options available.
Arlington County’s urban, commuter-heavy environment means that a concealed weapon charge often arises from a traffic stop or a routine police interaction. The validity of the stop, the officer’s observations, and the specific facts of how the weapon was carried all play a central role in building a defense. The court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd serves a diverse population, and local practice — such as the availability of first‑offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2 and the possibility of expungement for acquittals or dismissals under § 19.2‑392.2 — can significantly influence case outcomes. Plea bargaining is permitted under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia; the Commonwealth’s Attorney and defense counsel may negotiate a plea agreement, which the court may accept or reject. Understanding these local dynamics is critical.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Concealed Weapon Cases
When you work with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., your case receives focused attention from Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team. The first step is a careful review of the facts: how the police came into contact with you, where the weapon was found, whether any exceptions — such as being in your own home or business — apply, and whether you held a valid concealed handgun permit (CHP) at the time. Virginia issues CHPs under § 18.2‑308.02, but even a permit can be voided in certain circumstances, such as being in a prohibited location. The team examines every element of the Commonwealth’s case, identifying procedural weaknesses, chain‑of‑custody issues, and evidentiary gaps.
The Of Counsel group includes a former Virginia State Trooper who spent 15 years conducting criminal and traffic investigations across the Commonwealth. That deep familiarity with police procedures and evidence‑collection standards gives the firm a distinct perspective when challenging the legality of a stop, search, or the admissibility of evidence. Meanwhile, Mr. Sris — a former prosecutor — understands how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds a case and what it takes to negotiate a favorable resolution or prepare for trial. Together, they work toward outcomes that protect your record and your future. Every option, from seeking dismissal to pursuing a reduction or deferred disposition, is evaluated with your long‑term interests in mind. Because the firm maintains an Arlington location, its attorneys appear regularly in both the General District and Circuit Courts, and they are well‑versed in the expectations of local judges and prosecutors.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., established the firm in 1997 and is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He is a former prosecutor who brings firsthand understanding of how the state builds criminal cases. 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 backgrounds as former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorneys and a former Virginia State Trooper, offering a blend of prosecutorial and law‑enforcement insight. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.
In Arlington County, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented case results across multiple practice areas. In criminal matters specifically, they have secured 21 documented results: 11 dismissed or not guilty, and 10 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary. Past results are not a promise of future results. Each case is handled individually, and the team’s focus remains on building the strong $1 based on the specific facts of your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for carrying a concealed weapon in Virginia?
A first‑offense violation of Va. Code § 18.2‑308 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, with up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second or subsequent offense is a Class 6 felony, punishable by one to five years in prison. The court that handles the case — General District or Circuit Court — depends on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony. In addition to incarceration, a conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, loss of firearm rights, and collateral consequences for employment, professional licenses, and housing. Early legal intervention is critical to evaluating all available defenses.
Can a concealed weapon charge be expunged in Arlington County?
Virginia permits expungement for concealed weapon charges that end in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi (voluntary dismissal by the prosecutor). Under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2, you may petition the Arlington County Circuit Court to remove the police and court records of such a disposition. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The process requires filing a petition and, usually, a hearing. An attorney experienced with Virginia expungement law can guide you through the steps and help determine eligibility.
What is the difference between the General District Court and the Circuit Court in Arlington County?
Arlington County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings, while the Arlington County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from the General District Court. In General District Court, there is no jury — a judge decides guilt or innocence. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor, you have an automatic right to appeal to the Circuit Court for a new trial. For felonies, the General District Court holds a preliminary hearing to determine whether probable cause exists; if it does, the case is certified to the grand jury and moves to Circuit Court. Understanding this two‑tier structure helps you make informed decisions about your defense strategy.
Do I need a lawyer for a concealed weapon charge in Arlington County?
Yes, retaining an experienced criminal defense attorney is the most effective step you can take after being charged with a concealed weapon offense. Even a first‑offense misdemeanor can result in jail time, a fine, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment and civil rights. A lawyer can challenge the legality of the stop or search, argue that the weapon was carried in a manner permitted by law, negotiate with the prosecutor, and present mitigating circumstances. In Arlington County, court procedures and local prosecutorial practices often benefit from counsel who are familiar with how cases are handled in the 17th Judicial District. For a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747.
How does the concealed carry permit process work in Virginia?
Virginia issues a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) to eligible residents under Va. Code § 18.2‑308.02, but the permit has specific limitations. Applicants must meet age, residency, and training requirements and undergo a background check. Even with a valid CHP, carrying a concealed handgun is prohibited in certain locations, such as courthouses, schools, and places where alcohol is served for consumption on‑premises. If charged with a concealed weapon offense despite having a permit, the validity of your permit and the circumstances of your possession are critical defenses. It is important to discuss the details of your situation with a lawyer who understands Virginia firearms law.
For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Our Arlington location serves clients throughout Northern Virginia. Additional local criminal defense pages:
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.