Gun Crime Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearms charge in Manassas is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict gun laws, such as Va. Code § 18.2-308, and can lead to mandatory prison time. As a dedicated gun crime lawyer Manassas, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against charges like possession by a felon, concealed carry violations, and use in a felony.
Virginia Gun Crime Laws and Penalties
Virginia categorizes firearms offenses with severe penalties. The primary statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308, prohibits the carrying of concealed weapons without a permit and possession of firearms by convicted felons. Other critical laws include § 18.2-53.1 (use of a firearm in commission of a felony), which carries a mandatory minimum sentence, and § 18.2-279 (shooting into an occupied dwelling). These cases are prosecuted aggressively by the Commonwealth’s Attorney in Manassas.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s firearms statutes, visit the official Virginia Law portal. Court procedures and filing information for Manassas cases can be found at the Manassas General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Firearms Charges in Manassas
Firearms offenses in Manassas begin with an arrest and initial appearance at the Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue. For misdemeanor charges, your trial will be held in this court. Felony charges start with a preliminary hearing in General District Court to determine probable cause before being certified to the Manassas Circuit Court for a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney often seeks high bonds in gun cases, making early legal intervention critical.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact a defense attorney immediately after arrest to discuss the charges, potential defenses, and bond strategy.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): Attend the hearing in Manassas GDC where the defense can challenge the evidence before the case moves to Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence if the gun was seized illegally or to dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial Preparation: Work with the prosecutor for a potential reduction or prepare for a bench or jury trial to fight the charges.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, advocate for the most lenient sentence possible or file an appeal if legal errors occurred.
Potential Penalties for Gun Crimes in Virginia
In Manassas, gun crime penalties range from mandatory minimum prison sentences for use in a felony to significant fines and loss of firearm rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon (§ 18.2-308.2) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (Mandatory min. 2 years for violent felons) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent loss of firearm rights | Enhanced penalties for subsequent offenses |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon w/o Permit (§ 18.2-308) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Potential loss of permit eligibility | Weapon forfeiture |
| Use of Firearm in Commission of Felony (§ 18.2-53.1) | Separate Felony | Mandatory 3 years (consecutive to underlying felony) | Court discretion | Permanent loss of firearm rights | Sentence runs after sentence for primary felony |
| Reckless Handling of Firearm (§ 18.2-56.1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible loss of permit | Weapon forfeiture; enhanced if injury results |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Firearms Charge 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 “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we fight relentlessly for clients facing serious gun charges. Mr. Sris’s unique background in accounting and information systems provides a critical advantage in cases involving financial or technical evidence. Our team understands both the aggressive tactics of prosecutors and the procedural defenses that can lead to dismissals or reductions.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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 and Client Advocacy
While specific case results are confidential, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In firearms cases, effective defense by a skilled gun charge defense lawyer Manassas often involves challenging the legality of the stop or search that discovered the weapon, arguing lack of knowledge or possession, or negotiating for a reduction to a lesser non-firearms offense to avoid mandatory minimum sentences.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Firearms Defense Representation
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue). We are accessible via I-66 and Route 28. As a trusted gun crime lawyer near Manassas, we serve the Manassas community and surrounding areas.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gun Charges in Manassas
What is the penalty for a felon in possession of a gun in Manassas?
It is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. For those with a prior violent felony conviction, there is a mandatory minimum 2-year prison sentence.
Can I get a concealed carry charge dropped in Manassas?
It depends. If you had a valid permit but it was not on you, or if the weapon was not “concealed” as defined by law, dismissal may be possible. An attorney can file a motion to suppress if the search was unlawful. Outcomes vary by case specifics.
What is the “use of a firearm in a felony” charge?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-53.1, this charge applies if a firearm is used, displayed, or attempted to be used during a felony. It adds a mandatory, consecutive 3-year prison sentence on top of the penalty for the underlying felony.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time gun charge in Manassas?
Yes. Even first-time misdemeanor charges carry up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent criminal record. A firearms offense defense lawyer Manassas can seek alternative resolutions like first-offender programs or negotiate to avoid a conviction.
What are common defenses to gun charges?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the stop/search (Fourth Amendment), proving you were not in possession of the firearm, arguing lack of knowledge, or showing you had a valid permit. The best defense depends entirely on the facts of your case.
Related Legal Services in Manassas
If you are facing related charges, our firm also provides strong defense for DUI, criminal defense in Fairfax, and reckless driving. For a complete overview of our criminal practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. directly.