Firearm by Felon Lawyer Manassas Park, VA

A firearm by felon charge in Manassas Park, Virginia, is a serious criminal offense under Va. Code § 18.2‑308.2. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases in the Manassas Park General District Court and, for felony matters, in the Manassas Park Circuit Court. If you are facing such a charge, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients in Manassas Park and throughout Northern Virginia. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive experience in defending firearm‑related offenses. To discuss your case, call (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Firearm by Felon Means in Manassas Park

Possession of a firearm by a person previously convicted of a felony is prohibited statewide, but the path from arrest to resolution in Manassas Park involves specific local procedures. The charge is a felony, so it begins with an initial appearance in the Manassas Park General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110. That court handles the preliminary hearing and sets bond. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Manassas Park Circuit Court for trial or a negotiated resolution.

Because this offense carries mandatory incarceration in many situations, the stakes are high from the moment of arrest. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas Park prosecutes the charge, and the court will consider factors such as the nature of the prior felony, whether the firearm was loaded, and whether the alleged possession occurred in a prohibited location. An attorney familiar with the local prosecutors and judges can evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the state’s evidence.

Virginia does not offer a first‑offender program for firearm‑by‑felon charges, so the case cannot be deferred and dismissed through probation. The only resolution short of trial is a favorable plea negotiation—for example, an amendment to a non‑firearm misdemeanor when the evidence supports it—or an acquittal at trial. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have experience handling serious felony cases in the Thirty‑first Judicial District, advocating for outcomes that protect the client’s freedom and firearm rights.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Firearm by Felon Cases

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach each firearm‑by‑felon matter by first examining the prosecution’s entire case. That includes reviewing how law enforcement came to be in contact with the client, whether any search or seizure complied with the Fourth Amendment, and whether the firearm was actually in the client’s possession as defined by Virginia law. Because Of Counsel include attorneys with prior law enforcement experience—including former Virginia State Troopers—the team is able to identify procedural weaknesses that may not be obvious.

When the facts make trial the trusted path, the firm prepares a vigorous defense. In many cases, however, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work with the prosecutor to explore alternatives, such as an agreement to amend the charge to a non‑firearm offense, which can eliminate the mandatory minimum sentence and reduce the long‑term collateral consequences. Throughout the process, the client is kept informed of the options and the likely outcomes, so decisions are made with a clear understanding of the risks. Results may vary. in any matter.

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 been practicing criminal defense since founding the firm in 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 experience handling complex felony cases in Northern Virginia courts includes appearing at the Manassas Park courthouse.

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. The team includes attorneys with backgrounds in law enforcement, enabling a comprehensive defense strategy for clients accused of firearm offenses. Together, they have documented case results across multiple practice areas since 1997. Results may vary. To schedule a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for firearm by felon in Manassas Park?

A conviction under Va. Code § 18.2‑308.2 is a Class 6 felony, carrying one to five years imprisonment; a jury may impose up to 12 months in jail, but a mandatory minimum sentence often applies. If the prior felony was violent, the mandatory minimum is two years, and if the firearm was loaded, the minimum becomes five years. In addition to incarceration, the conviction results in a permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, and further prohibition on firearm possession. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Can a convicted felon ever possess a firearm in Virginia again?

In Virginia, a convicted felon may not possess a firearm unless firearm rights have been restored by executive clemency or a court order. Restoration of rights generally requires the individual to first have their civil rights (voting, jury service, etc.) restored, and then seek a separate restoration of firearm rights. The process is not automatic and can take considerable time. A defense attorney can explain whether a particular conviction permanently bars firearm possession or whether restoration is a viable long‑term goal. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.

What should I do if I am charged with possession of a firearm by a felon?

Remain silent, do not discuss the facts with law enforcement, and contact a defense attorney as soon as possible. Anything you say can be used to support the charge. Preserve any evidence that may help your case, such as proof that the firearm belonged to someone else or that you were unaware of its presence. Prompt legal intervention often allows the attorney to address bond issues, preserve evidence, and begin discussions with the prosecutor early. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Does a previous felony conviction from another state count under Virginia’s firearm law?

Yes, a felony conviction from any jurisdiction—state or federal—prohibits firearm possession in Virginia under Va. Code § 18.2‑308.2. The Commonwealth only needs to prove that a felony conviction exists and that the defendant was aware of the presence of the firearm. The prior conviction does not need to be a Virginia offense. An attorney can examine whether the out‑of‑state conviction qualifies as a felony under Virginia law and whether any constitutional defects in the prior proceeding can be raised.

Do I need a lawyer for a firearm by felon charge?

While you have the right to represent yourself, firearm‑by‑felon cases involve mandatory incarceration and lifelong collateral consequences, so retaining an experienced attorney is critical. An attorney can challenge the legality of the search, contest the prosecution’s proof of possession, explore whether the firearm was inoperable, and negotiate for an amendment of the charge. Without legal training, navigating the procedural rules of Manassas Park courts and Virginia’s sentencing framework is extremely difficult. To request a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747.

How do I schedule a consultation with a firearm by felon lawyer in Manassas Park?

Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747 to speak with a representative who can arrange a consultation. The firm’s phones are answered at all hours, and appointments are available at the Fairfax location. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel serve clients throughout Northern Virginia, including Manassas Park. You can discuss the specifics of your case and learn how the team would approach your defense.

For additional information about criminal defense in nearby jurisdictions, see criminal defense representation in Fairfax County, Prince William County criminal defense services, and legal representation in Manassas City.

Review the relevant Virginia statute: Virginia Code Title 18.2. The Manassas Park General District Court’s official page is available at Manassas Park General District Court.

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.