Concealed Weapon Lawyer Hanover County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Hanover County is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-308, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing 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 firearms, dirks, bowie knives, switchblade knives, ballistic knives, machetes, razors, or any weapon of like kind, without a valid permit. A concealed carry violation lawyer Hanover County can explain that this law applies to weapons readily accessible, even if not on your person, such as in a vehicle’s glove compartment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-308. Court procedures and information for Hanover County can be found on the Hanover County General District Court website.
Defending a Concealed Weapon Charge in Hanover County
Defending against a concealed weapon charge requires a detailed understanding of both the law and local court procedures. In Hanover County General District Court, prosecutors must prove you knowingly and intentionally carried a hidden weapon. A skilled weapons charge defense lawyer Hanover County will examine the specifics of the stop, the search, and whether you possessed a valid permit. Common defenses include challenging the legality of the traffic stop or search, arguing the weapon was not “hidden,” or proving you had a valid concealed handgun permit at the time.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will request discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney to review all evidence.
- We will file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence if the stop or search was unlawful.
- We will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal, if possible.
- If no favorable plea agreement is reached, we will prepare for and present a strong defense at trial.
- If convicted in General District Court, we can file an appeal for a new trial in Hanover County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for a Concealed Weapon Charge
In Hanover County, a concealed weapon violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Firearm rights may be lost | Permanent criminal record; difficulty obtaining 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; loss of voting rights; ineligible for certain public benefits |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon on School Property | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (mandatory minimum may apply) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Enhanced penalties; may face federal charges |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Criminal 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. We understand the severe consequences a weapons charge can have on your future and provide a focused, case-specific defense strategy.
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 Weapons and Criminal Defense
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In Hanover County, we have secured dismissals and not-guilty verdicts for clients. For instance, our team, including experienced attorney Mr. Sris, has successfully defended clients against charges ranging from assault to property crimes, often through pre-trial motions and skilled negotiation that results in reduced or dismissed charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Concealed Weapon Lawyer Hanover County
Our Richmond location serves clients in Hanover County and is accessible via I-95 and I-295. We are a concealed weapon lawyer near Mechanicsville and Ashland, serving neighborhoods throughout Hanover County including Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a concealed weapon charge in Hanover County?
A first-offense concealed weapon charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second or subsequent offense is a Class 6 felony, carrying 1 to 5 years in prison.
Can I get a concealed weapon charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, you may petition for expungement if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or the prosecutor entered a nolle prosequi. A conviction for carrying a concealed weapon generally cannot be expunged.
Do I need a lawyer for a concealed weapon charge?
Yes. The potential jail time and permanent criminal record make legal representation critical. A concealed weapon lawyer Hanover 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 this charge?
Your initial trial for a misdemeanor concealed weapon charge will be in Hanover County General District Court (GDC). If you are convicted and wish to appeal, or if you are charged with a felony-level offense, your case will move to Hanover County Circuit Court for a new trial before a judge or jury.
What if I had a valid concealed handgun permit?
If you possessed a valid Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit at the time of the alleged offense, this is a complete defense to the charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308. A weapons charge defense lawyer Hanover County can help you present this evidence to get the charge dismissed.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for up-to-date guidance.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Hanover County DUI Lawyer or Hanover County Family Law Lawyer.