Gun Crime Lawyer Greene County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A firearms charge in Greene County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s strict gun laws. As a Class 1 misdemeanor or felony, a conviction can mean jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing a gun charge, you need a dedicated gun crime lawyer Greene County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Gun Laws and Firearms Offenses
Virginia categorizes gun crimes under Va. Code Title 18.2, with specific statutes governing possession, use, and carrying of firearms. Common charges include possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (Va. Code § 18.2-308.2), carrying a concealed weapon without a permit (§ 18.2-308), and brandishing a firearm (§ 18.2-282). The severity ranges from Class 1 misdemeanors, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, to felonies carrying multi-year prison sentences. The specific circumstances—such as prior convictions, the type of firearm, and where the offense occurred—significantly impact the potential penalties.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s firearms statutes, refer to the official Virginia General Assembly website. Court procedures and local rules for Greene County can be found on the Greene County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Greene County Gun Charge
All gun charges in Greene County begin at the Greene County General District Court at 85 Stanard Street in Stanardsville. For a firearms offense defense lawyer Greene County, understanding the local process is critical. Misdemeanor trials are held here, while felony charges start with a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Greene County Circuit Court for a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Greene County prosecutes these cases aggressively.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney can file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the legality of the stop or search.
- Negotiation & Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines and the specifics of your case.
In Greene County, a gun charge can carry penalties from 12 months in jail for a misdemeanor to over 10 years in prison for a felony, plus permanent loss of firearm rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Forfeiture of firearm |
| Felon in Possession of Firearm | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Permanent firearm prohibition |
| Brandishing a Firearm | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Can be enhanced to felony |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with 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 in complex criminal matters. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of both the law and the local court systems where these cases are decided.
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
Our firm has a documented record in Greene County. In one case, we secured a dismissal for a client facing serious allegations. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases involving technical evidence.
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.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Greene County courts. We represent individuals in Stanardsville, Ruckersville, and throughout the county. As your gun charge defense lawyer Greene County, we are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor gun charge in Greene County?
A Class 1 misdemeanor, like illegal concealed carry, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine in Greene County. Cases are heard at Greene County General District Court. The specific penalty depends on the charge and your history.
Can I get a gun charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement only for charges that result in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi (Va. Code § 19.2-392.2). A conviction for a firearms offense typically cannot be removed from your record, making a strong defense from the outset critical.
Do I need a lawyer for a firearms charge in Greene County?
Yes. Gun charges are prosecuted seriously by the Greene County Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even a misdemeanor can result in jail time and creates a permanent record. A lawyer can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
What’s the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a gun case?
Greene County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Greene County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
What should I do if I’m arrested on a gun charge?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with your attorney. Contact a gun crime lawyer Greene County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in Fairfax County and with DUI charges in Greene County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.