Firearm by Felon Lawyer King William County, VA

A firearm charge for a convicted felon in King William County is a serious matter that can lead to a prison sentence, a mandatory minimum jail term, and lifetime loss of firearm rights. Virginia Code § 18.2-308.2 makes it a Class 6 felony for any person convicted of a felony to knowingly possess a firearm. A conviction carries one to five years in prison, with mandatory minimum sentences of two years if the prior felony was a violent felony within ten years, and five years if the firearm was loaded. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases actively. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has experience defending individuals facing firearm-by-felon charges in King William County General District Court and King William County Circuit Court. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper who brings firsthand knowledge of law enforcement procedures, and Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, leads the firm’s criminal defense practice. If you are under investigation or have been charged, contact us at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What a Firearm by Felon Charge Means in King William County

Under Virginia law, it is a felony offense for any person who has been convicted of a felony to “knowingly and intentionally” possess or transport a firearm. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, applies regardless of whether the prior felony was violent or non‑violent, and it carries severe consequences beyond incarceration — including permanent loss of the right to possess firearms and potential collateral consequences for employment and housing.

In King William County, a firearm‑by‑felon case begins in the General District Court, where a preliminary hearing is held for felony charges. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is sent to the King William County Circuit Court for trial or other disposition. The King William County Commonwealth’s Attorney handles the prosecution, and the court at 351 Courthouse Lane, Suite 201, King William, VA 23086, serves the county. Because a Class 6 felony carries a potential jury trial and mandatory minimums may apply, early and knowledgeable legal representation is critical.

Our firm has documented favorable outcomes in King William County. In the criminal matters we have handled there, including firearm‑related and other charges, all reported case results were reduced or amended. Results may vary.

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

Defending a firearm‑by‑felon charge requires a close look at how the evidence was obtained and whether the prosecution can prove every element of the offense. Our approach examines the legality of the stop, the search that led to the discovery of the firearm, and whether the accused had actual or constructive possession of the weapon. Where the prior felony conviction is remote or the underlying record contains legal flaws, we may also challenge the validity of the predicate conviction.

Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, understands how the Commonwealth builds a case. His Of Counsel team includes a former Virginia State Trooper whose law‑enforcement background provides insight into patrol procedures, investigative techniques, and how to identify procedural weaknesses in the state’s evidence. Together, we work to negotiate with the prosecutor for an amendment to a lesser charge where possible, and when trial is necessary, we prepare thoroughly for a courtroom defense. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), reflecting his long‑standing commitment to fair process in Virginia’s courts.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He is a former prosecutor who now concentrates his practice on criminal defense, bringing an insider’s perspective to every case. Mr. Sris keeps his personal caseload manageable so that he can remain deeply involved in the strategy of each matter he handles.

Mr. Sris works alongside a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring decades of additional experience. Among them is a former Virginia State Trooper whose 15 years of law‑enforcement service give the firm a unique ability to scrutinize police reports, traffic‑stop procedures, and investigative steps. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented over 4,739 case results since 1997. Results may vary.

Verify admissions: Virginia State Bar • Maryland Judiciary • DC Bar • NJ Courts • NY OCA

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a firearm by felon charge under Virginia law?

Under Virginia Code § 18.2-308.2, it is a felony for any person convicted of a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess or transport a firearm. The prohibition applies whether the prior conviction was for a violent crime or a non‑violent offense, and it extends to any firearm, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. The charge is a Class 6 felony, and the Commonwealth must prove that the accused had a prior felony conviction and that the accused knowingly had a firearm.

What penalties could I face for firearm by felon in King William County?

A conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 is punishable by one to five years in prison, or at the discretion of the jury, up to twelve months in jail. If the prior felony was a violent felony within the previous ten years, a mandatory minimum sentence of two years applies. If the firearm was loaded and the prior felony was violent, the mandatory minimum rises to five years. In addition to incarceration, a conviction results in the permanent loss of the right to possess firearms and may carry other collateral consequences such as loss of voting rights while incarcerated.

How can a defense lawyer challenge a firearm by felon charge?

An experienced criminal defense lawyer examines every step of the case, from the initial police encounter through to evidence handling. Common defenses include challenging the legality of the traffic stop or search that uncovered the firearm, arguing that the accused did not have actual or constructive possession of the weapon, or questioning whether the prior felony conviction is valid or was properly proven. A defense attorney may also negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction to a lesser offense when the facts and law support such an outcome.

Do I need a lawyer if I’m charged with firearm by felon in King William County?

Yes, because a felony conviction carries a potential prison sentence, mandatory minimum jail time, and lifelong consequences. The legal process in King William County moves quickly, and statements you make early in the case can be used against you. An attorney can protect your rights from the first appearance in General District Court, challenge the evidence, and work toward the most favorable result possible under the circumstances. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides representation at both the GDC and Circuit Court levels in King William County.

What should I do if I am arrested for firearm by felon?

If you are arrested, exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. Do not discuss the facts of the case with law enforcement until you have counsel present. Try to remember details about the arrest and the circumstances surrounding the alleged firearm, but do not write down or share any statements. Contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible so that your case can be assessed and your rights can be protected at the earliest stage.

How do I find an experienced criminal defense lawyer in King William County?

Look for a lawyer who regularly appears in King William County courts and has a record of handling felony firearm cases. The attorney’s familiarity with local prosecutors, judges, and court procedures can make a meaningful difference. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled criminal matters in King William County and has documented favorable results. To discuss your case, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.

We also serve clients in surrounding Virginia communities. Learn more about our criminal defense practice:

Primary legal authority: Virginia Code § 18.2-308.2 • King William County 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.