Concealed Weapon Lawyer Chesterfield County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Carrying a concealed weapon in Chesterfield County is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-308, punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second offense is a Class 6 felony. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for these charges in Chesterfield County General District Court.
Virginia Law on Carrying Concealed Weapons
Virginia law strictly prohibits carrying any hidden weapon, including firearms, knives, or other dangerous items, without a proper permit. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-308. A violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor, but it escalates to a Class 6 felony for a second offense or if the weapon is a sawed-off shotgun or rifle. Certain exceptions exist for law enforcement, security guards, and individuals with a valid Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP).
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield 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). Court procedures and forms can be found at the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Defending a Concealed Carry Charge in Chesterfield County
Prosecutors in Chesterfield County actively pursue these charges. A key local procedural fact is that the Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you knowingly and intentionally concealed the weapon. Common defenses challenge whether the item qualifies as a weapon, if it was truly concealed, or if you had a valid permit. The court at 9500 Courthouse Road handles all misdemeanor trials. For a concealed carry violation lawyer Chesterfield County, building a defense starts immediately.
- Secure Representation: Contact a defense attorney immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Case Review: Your attorney will examine the police report, search legality, and evidence to identify weaknesses.
- Pre-Trial Strategy: Options may include negotiating for a reduction to a lesser charge or seeking dismissal if rights were violated.
- Trial Preparation: If no plea agreement is reached, your attorney will prepare a defense for trial in General District Court.
- Appeal or Circuit Court Trial: You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction or demand a jury trial in Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for a Concealed Weapons Charge
In Chesterfield County, a concealed weapons charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308 carries severe penalties that escalate with prior offenses and the type of weapon involved.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Permanent criminal record |
| Second Offense | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years* | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
| Sawed-off Shotgun/Rifle | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years* | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Mandatory minimum sentence may apply |
*Or up to 12 months in jail at the jury’s discretion.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, we bring substantial knowledge to weapons charge defense. Our team understands the local court procedures and prosecution strategies in Chesterfield County.
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 for Weapons Charges
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In Chesterfield County, we have achieved results including dismissals and charge reductions. For instance, attorney Mr. Sris has successfully defended clients on complex criminal matters, leveraging his background as a former prosecutor and his deep understanding of Virginia’s legal statutes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Chesterfield County Weapons Charge Defense Team
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesterfield County, including Midlothian, Chester, and the Colonial Heights area. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. If you need a weapons charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County, we are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
FAQs: Concealed Weapon Charges in Chesterfield County
What is the penalty for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Virginia?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second offense is a Class 6 felony.
Can I get a concealed weapons charge expunged in Chesterfield County?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, expungement is generally available only if the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. A conviction typically cannot be expunged.
Do I need a lawyer for a concealed weapon charge in Chesterfield County?
Yes. The penalties are severe, including jail time and a permanent criminal record. A skilled concealed weapon lawyer Chesterfield County can challenge the evidence and seek the best possible outcome.
What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and felony concealed weapon charge?
A first-time offense is a misdemeanor. It becomes a felony if it is a second offense, involves a sawed-off shotgun/rifle, or if you have a prior felony conviction. Felonies carry prison time and long-term civil disabilities.
What are common defenses to a concealed weapon charge?
Defenses include lack of knowledge the weapon was concealed, having a valid permit, the item not meeting the legal definition of a weapon, or an unlawful search and seizure violating your Fourth Amendment rights.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Chesterfield County and criminal defense in Henrico County. For a full overview of our services, 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.