Concealed Weapon Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-308, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine in New Kent County. As a concealed weapon lawyer New Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for concealed carry violations and weapons charges.
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 pistols, revolvers, or other firearms designed to expel a projectile, as well as certain knives, without a valid permit. A conviction is a serious offense that creates a permanent criminal record and can impact your right to possess firearms in the future.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent 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 New Kent County Courts website.
Local Court Process for Weapons Charges in New Kent County
Weapons charges in New Kent County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the New Kent County General District Court located at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The court handles all misdemeanor concealed weapon trials. Understanding the local procedure is critical for building a strong defense.
- 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 it was obtained illegally or to challenge the legality of the stop or search.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will engage with the prosecutor to seek a dismissal, reduction of the charge (e.g., to a non-weapons offense), or a favorable plea agreement.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court. You have an absolute right to appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: After a verdict, the judge will impose sentence if guilty. A not guilty verdict ends the case. A guilty verdict can be appealed to New Kent County Circuit Court within 10 days.
Potential Penalties for Concealed Weapons Charges
In New Kent 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, § 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Loss of concealed carry permit; potential loss of firearm rights | Permanent criminal record; ineligible for expungement if convicted |
| 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 impact on employment, housing, voting rights |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon on School Property | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (mandatory min. may apply) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Enhanced penalties; federal implications possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges. Our team includes attorneys with specific insight into the prosecution’s strategies, giving us a distinct advantage in building your defense.
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 New Kent County, our firm has documented results in criminal cases. While every case is unique, our approach focuses on thorough investigation and assertive representation. For instance, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor who founded the firm and personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute—has successfully defended clients against various charges by challenging evidence and negotiating with prosecutors.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Concealed Weapon Defense Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County and is accessible via I-64. We are a trusted concealed weapon lawyer near New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with a concealed carry violation in New Kent County?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the circumstances with law enforcement. Contact a concealed weapon lawyer New Kent County as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin building your defense.
Can I get a concealed weapons charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, expungement is generally available only if the charge resulted in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi (dropped by the prosecutor). A conviction for a concealed weapons charge typically cannot be expunged, making a strong defense from the outset critically important.
What are common defenses to a weapons charge defense lawyer New Kent County might use?
A skilled weapons charge defense lawyer New Kent County may argue the weapon was not concealed, the search was unlawful, you had a valid permit, or you lacked criminal intent. The specific defense depends entirely on the unique facts and evidence of your case.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time concealed weapon offense?
Yes. Even a first-time Class 1 misdemeanor carries a potential jail sentence and creates a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and firearm rights. A concealed weapon lawyer New Kent County can work to have charges reduced or dismissed.
What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and felony concealed weapon charge?
A first offense is usually a Class 1 misdemeanor. A second or subsequent offense, or carrying in a prohibited place like a school, becomes a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1-5 years in prison and loss of core civil rights, including firearm possession.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, explore our New Kent County DUI defense services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.