Concealed Weapon Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Carrying a concealed weapon in Henrico County is a serious Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-308, 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 Carrying Concealed Weapons
The primary statute governing concealed weapons in Virginia is Va. Code § 18.2-308. This law makes it illegal to carry about your person any hidden weapon, including handguns, dirks, bowie knives, switchblade knives, ballistic knives, machetes, razors, or any weapon of like kind, without a valid permit. The statute provides specific exceptions, such as for individuals with a valid concealed handgun permit issued in Virginia or a reciprocal state, or for certain weapons carried in a secured container or compartment within a private vehicle.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Va. Code § 18.2-308 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and forms can be found at the Henrico County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Concealed Weapon Charge in Henrico
In Henrico County, concealed weapon charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Henrico County General District Court located at 4301 East Parham Road. The court handles all misdemeanor trials. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction take weapons charges seriously, and the potential for jail time is real, even for first-time offenders. A strong defense often involves challenging the legality of the stop or search that led to the discovery of the weapon, examining whether the item qualifies as a weapon under the statute, or verifying the validity and status of any claimed permit.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest. Always plead not guilty at this stage to preserve your rights.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if the weapon was found through an unlawful search or seizure.
- Negotiation & Discovery: Your lawyer will review all evidence with the prosecutor to identify weaknesses in the Commonwealth’s case and explore potential resolutions, such as a reduction to a lesser charge.
- Trial or Disposition: If a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court. You have an absolute right to appeal to Henrico County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Potential Penalties for a Concealed Carry Violation
In Henrico County, a conviction for carrying a concealed weapon is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| 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 concealed carry permit; potential loss of firearm rights | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (Subsequent Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Felony record; severe long-term collateral consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Henrico County Courts
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 firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Henrico County, we have a documented history of defending clients against serious charges. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we provide full representation, from the initial arrest through trial or negotiation.
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
Documented Case Results
Our firm has achieved favorable outcomes for clients in Henrico County courts. For instance, we have secured dismissals for charges such as reckless driving in excess of 80 mph and passing a school bus. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. These results demonstrate our active practice and understanding of local court procedures. Of Counsel attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, also contributes significant prosecutorial insight to our defense strategies.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients in Henrico County and is accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. As a concealed weapon lawyer near Henrico County, we represent individuals from Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a concealed carry violation in Henrico County?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The penalty is up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second offense can be charged as a Class 6 felony, carrying 1-5 years in prison.
Can I get a concealed weapon charge expunged in Virginia?
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 a concealed weapon charge generally cannot be expunged from your record.
Do I need a lawyer for a concealed weapon charge?
Yes. The potential penalties are severe, including jail time and a permanent criminal record. A weapons charge defense lawyer Henrico County can challenge the evidence, negotiate for a reduction, or take your case to trial to protect your rights and future.
What’s the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for my case?
Your misdemeanor trial will be in Henrico County General District Court (GDC). If convicted, you have an absolute right to appeal for a new jury trial in Henrico County Circuit Court. A felony charge would start with a preliminary hearing in GDC before moving to Circuit Court.
What if the police found the weapon during a traffic stop?
A common defense is to challenge the legality of the traffic stop and the subsequent search. If the officer lacked probable cause or reasonable suspicion, the evidence may be suppressed, which often leads to the charge being dismissed.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI cases in Henrico County and reckless driving charges. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring jurisdictions like Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding your concealed weapon charge in Henrico County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.