Concealed Firearm Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia
Carrying a concealed firearm without a permit 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 in Chesterfield County. As a Concealed Firearm Defense Lawyer Chesterfield County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in this jurisdiction.
Virginia Law on Carrying Concealed Weapons
Virginia law strictly regulates the carrying of concealed weapons, including firearms. The primary statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308, makes it unlawful for any person to carry about his person, hidden from common observation, any weapon described in the statute, including any pistol, revolver, or other firearm designed to expel a projectile by action of an explosion. A valid concealed handgun permit is a defense to this charge. However, even with a permit, carrying in prohibited places like schools or courthouses remains illegal. The law also prohibits possession by certain persons, such as convicted felons.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official Virginia statute § 18.2-308. Court procedures and forms can be found on the Virginia Courts website.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Firearms Charges
In Chesterfield County, concealed firearm charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Chesterfield County General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials. For a felony charge, such as possession by a convicted felon, a preliminary hearing would be held in GDC before potential transfer to Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors often seek jail time for these offenses.
- Arraignment: Your first court date where you are formally advised of the charge and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if the weapon was discovered through an unlawful search or seizure.
- Negotiation & Trial Preparation: Your lawyer will review the Commonwealth’s evidence and negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- Trial or Disposition: At trial, the Commonwealth must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. Alternatively, the case may be resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence which may include jail, fines, and probation. You have the right to appeal a guilty verdict to the Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Firearms Violations
In Chesterfield County, carrying a concealed firearm is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Possession by a convicted felon is a Class 6 felony.
| 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 right to possess firearms | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
| Carrying in Prohibited Place (e.g., school) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Loss of concealed carry permit | Mandatory minimum sentences may apply |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your 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 firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris’s unique background in accounting and information systems provides a strategic advantage in cases involving technical evidence. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation.
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 in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for this locality. For example, our team has secured dismissals for charges like “Profane Language Over Public Airway” and “Purchase/Possess Alcohol” in Chesterfield General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Concealed Firearm Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 10, and Route 360 (Hull Street). We provide legal representation to residents of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
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.
FAQs: Concealed Firearm Defense in Chesterfield County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at Chesterfield County General District Court.
Can I get a concealed firearm charge expunged in Chesterfield County?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. If you are convicted of carrying a concealed weapon, that conviction generally cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Chesterfield County Circuit Court after a favorable outcome in your case.
Do I need a firearms violation lawyer Chesterfield County for a first offense?
Yes. Even a first-offense concealed carry charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor with potential jail time and creates a permanent criminal record. The Chesterfield Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. An experienced illegal concealed carry defense lawyer Chesterfield County can challenge the legality of the stop or search and negotiate for a reduced charge or diversion program.
What’s the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a gun charge?
Chesterfield County General District Court handles misdemeanor concealed weapon trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials (like possession by a felon) and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
What should I do if I’m charged with illegal concealed carry in Chesterfield County?
First, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a Concealed Firearm Defense Lawyer Chesterfield County immediately. Secure any relevant documents, like a concealed handgun permit. Your lawyer will obtain the police report, analyze the stop and search for constitutional violations, and develop a defense strategy case-specific to the Chesterfield court.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI cases in Chesterfield County and criminal defense across Virginia. For similar charges in nearby areas, see our page for Henrico County criminal defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.