Firearm by Felon Lawyer Clarke County — What Are Your Legal Options?
In Clarke County, a felon possessing a firearm under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 faces a Class 6 felony with 1-5 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 29 total documented case results across all practice areas in Clarke County. A Firearm by Felon Lawyer Clarke County can build your defense.
Understanding the Firearm by Felon Charge in Clarke County
Under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, it is unlawful for any person convicted of a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess a firearm. This is a Class 6 felony carrying a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years if the prior felony was a violent felony as defined by statute. The law applies to any firearm, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. A felon with firearm defense lawyer Clarke County must understand the specific elements of this charge to challenge the prosecution’s case effectively.
Last verified: April 2026 | Clarke County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
External Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Clarke County General District Court (official court website)
Insider Procedural Edge for Clarke County Firearm by Felon Cases
Clarke County General District Court handles the preliminary hearing for felony firearm possession charges. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you knew you possessed the firearm and that you had a prior felony conviction. A prohibited person gun charge lawyer Clarke County can challenge the legality of the search that found the weapon.
- Step 1: Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Step 2: Contact a Firearm by Felon Lawyer Clarke County immediately after arrest or when you learn of an investigation.
- Step 3: Your attorney will file a motion to suppress any evidence obtained through an illegal search or seizure.
- Step 4: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal of the charge.
- Step 5: If no plea agreement is reached, your attorney will prepare for a preliminary hearing in General District Court.
- Step 6: If the case is certified to Circuit Court, your attorney will prepare for a jury trial or bench trial.
In Clarke County, a firearm by felon charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years for violent felonies and up to 5 years for non-violent felonies.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm (Non-Violent Prior Felony) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment, housing |
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm (Violent Prior Felony) | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment, housing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Firearm by Felon Case?
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 has 4,739+ total documented case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. We provide case-specific defense strategies for each client.
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating his deep understanding of Virginia law and his ability to effect real change in the legal system.
Also handling your case: Kristen M. Fisher, former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, and Matthew Greene, 30+ years of criminal defense experience.
Case Results in Clarke County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 29 total documented case results across all practice areas in Clarke County, with a 72% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, we have 4,739+ total case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Clarke County Legal Services
Our Richmond Location serves clients at the Clarke County courts (104 North Church Street, Berryville, VA 22611). The location is accessible via Route 7, Route 340, and Route 50.
Looking for a Firearm by Felon Lawyer Clarke County near you? We serve Berryville, Boyce, and all of Clarke County.
Neighborhoods served: Berryville, Boyce.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Firearm by Felon Charges in Clarke County
Can a felon ever legally possess a firearm in Virginia?
No, a convicted felon cannot legally possess a firearm in Virginia unless their rights have been restored by the governor or through a court order under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2.
What is the penalty for a firearm by felon charge in Clarke County?
It depends. A Class 6 felony carries 1-5 years in prison. If the prior felony was a violent felony, there is a mandatory minimum of 5 years. Fines up to $2,500 also apply.
Can a firearm by felon charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, a charge can be reduced or dismissed if the search was illegal, if you did not know the firearm was present, or if the prior felony does not qualify under the statute.
How long does a firearm by felon case take in Clarke County?
It depends. A preliminary hearing in General District Court occurs within 21-60 days. If certified to Circuit Court, a trial typically happens within 3-9 months.
Do I need a lawyer for a firearm by felon charge?
Yes, a firearm by felon charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for violent prior felonies. An experienced lawyer can challenge the evidence and negotiate for a better outcome.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Learn more about our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer services. See our results in Henrico County and Chesterfield County. Also serving Clarke County for DUI/DWI and Family Law.
View our attorney profile: Bryan Block. Visit our Richmond Office location.