Concealed Firearm Defense Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Legal Options?
Carrying a concealed firearm without a permit in New Kent County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-308, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for firearms charges in New Kent County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Carrying Concealed Firearms
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, without a valid permit. A conviction is a serious offense that creates a permanent criminal record and can result in the loss of your right to possess firearms. Defenses may include arguing that the weapon was not “hidden from common observation,” that you possessed a valid concealed handgun permit, or that you were on your own property. An illegal concealed carry defense lawyer New Kent County can evaluate the specific facts of your case to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Potential Penalties for Firearms Violations in New Kent County
In New Kent County, a conviction for carrying a concealed weapon carries significant penalties that impact your freedom, finances, and future rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Loss of Concealed Carry Permit | Permanent criminal record; loss of firearm rights |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (Subsequent Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of Concealed Carry Permit | Felony record; loss of voting rights; firearm prohibition |
| Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Separate federal charges possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
- Secure Legal Representation Immediately: Contact a defense attorney before speaking to law enforcement. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Case Assessment & Investigation: Your attorney will review the police report, witness statements, and the circumstances of the search or seizure that led to the discovery of the weapon.
Pre-Trial Motions: A key step may involve filing a motion to suppress evidence if the weapon was found during an illegal search or seizure in violation of the Fourth Amendment. - Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable plea agreement or, if necessary, prepare a vigorous defense for trial in New Kent County General District Court.
Our Experience in New Kent County Firearms Cases
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 approach involves a meticulous review of the evidence, challenging procedural errors, and presenting a compelling defense case-specific to the specifics of New Kent County’s court procedures. For firearms charges, having a former prosecutor like Mr. Sris on your side provides a strategic advantage in understanding how the other side builds its case.
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 & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a strong track record in criminal defense. In related matters, our team has secured dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions. For example, we have successfully argued motions to suppress evidence, skilled to the dismissal of charges when a weapon was discovered during an unlawful traffic stop. In other cases, we have negotiated amendments from felony weapons charges to misdemeanor offenses with no jail time. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Kent County Firearms Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients throughout New Kent County, including New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33. If you need a concealed firearm defense lawyer near New Kent County Courthouse, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Concealed Firearm Charges in New Kent 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 with a potential prison sentence of 1 to 5 years.
Can I get a concealed weapons charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. If you are found not guilty, the charge is dismissed (nolle prosequi), or you complete a first-offender program, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged from your record.
Do I need a lawyer for a concealed firearm charge in New Kent County?
Yes. These are serious charges prosecuted in New Kent County General District Court. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record, can result in jail time, and causes the loss of your right to possess firearms. An experienced defense lawyer is essential.
What are common defenses to a concealed weapon charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the stop or search that discovered the weapon, proving you had a valid concealed handgun permit, arguing the weapon was not “hidden from common observation,” or establishing you were on your own property at the time.
Where are concealed weapon cases heard in New Kent County?
Misdemeanor concealed weapon trials are held in the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle. You have a right to appeal to the New Kent County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Related Legal Services in New Kent County: If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI/DWI, criminal defense, and reckless driving. For statewide information, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub.