Concealed Weapon Lawyer Greene County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Carrying a concealed weapon in Greene County is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-308, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record and can result in the loss of your right to possess firearms. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Law on Concealed Weapons
Virginia law strictly regulates the carrying of concealed weapons. The primary statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308, makes it illegal to carry about your person any hidden weapon, including firearms, dirks, bowie knives, switchblade knives, ballistic knives, machetes, razors, or any weapon of like kind. A valid concealed handgun permit is a defense to carrying a concealed firearm, but not to other prohibited weapons. The law also prohibits carrying concealed weapons in certain locations, such as schools and courthouses, even with a permit.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s concealed weapons law, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-308 (Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Greene County General District Court website.
Defending Concealed Weapon Charges in Greene County
Prosecutors in Greene County take weapons charges seriously. A strong defense often hinges on challenging the legality of the search or seizure that discovered the weapon. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, the evidence may be suppressed. Other defenses include arguing the weapon was not “hidden,” you possessed a valid permit, or you were on your own property. The procedural steps in Greene County General District Court are critical.
- Arraignment: Your first court date at Greene County GDC (85 Stanard Street). You will hear the formal charge and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge based on legal defects.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include jail, fines, and probation.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a conviction to the Greene County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Concealed Weapons Charges
In Greene County, a concealed weapons violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Permanent criminal record |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (Subsequent) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Felony record |
| Carrying on School Property | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (mandatory min. 6 mos.) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Weapons Charge Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how these cases are built and challenged. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges.
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
Our firm has a documented record in Greene County. In one case, we secured a dismissal for a client facing a serious charge. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our broader firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides an advantage in cases involving technical or financial evidence.
Concealed Weapon Lawyer Near Greene County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Greene County General District Court in Stanardsville. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33. We provide legal representation for individuals in Stanardsville, Ruckersville, and surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
FAQs: Concealed Weapon Charges in Greene County
What is the penalty for a concealed weapons charge in Greene County, Virginia?
A first-offense concealed weapons charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second or subsequent offense is a Class 6 felony, carrying 1-5 years in prison. A conviction also results in loss of firearm rights.
Can I get a concealed weapons charge expunged in Greene County?
It depends. Virginia law allows expungement only if the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi (Va. Code § 19.2-392.2). A conviction for carrying a concealed weapon cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Greene County Circuit Court.
Do I need a concealed carry violation lawyer Greene County for a first-time offense?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor carries the threat of jail time and creates a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and firearm rights. A weapons charge defense lawyer Greene County can challenge the evidence and seek a favorable outcome.
What’s the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a weapons charge?
Greene County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor concealed weapon trials. If you are charged with a felony (e.g., a subsequent offense), your preliminary hearing is in GDC, but the jury trial is in Greene County Circuit Court. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
What are common defenses to a concealed weapon charge?
Common defenses include: the weapon was not “hidden” or “concealed”; you had a valid concealed handgun permit (for firearms); the search that found the weapon was illegal; you were on your own property; or the item does not meet the legal definition of a weapon.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Greene County, family law matters, and reckless driving tickets.
Nearby Locations: We also serve clients in Fairfax County and Prince William County.
Statewide Resource: For more information on criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.