Concealed Weapon Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA
You were driving along I-264 near the Virginia Beach Oceanfront when an officer pulled you over for a minor traffic infraction. During the stop, the officer searched your vehicle and found a handgun in the glove compartment or under a seat. Now you face a concealed weapon charge under Va. Code § 18.2‑308 and are wondering what your options are. This situation is stressful, but you do not have to navigate it alone. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747 to discuss your case with a team that understands Virginia Beach courts. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Strategy Options for a Concealed Weapon Charge
An experienced criminal defense attorney reviews the facts of the stop and the search to identify the strong $1. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team examine whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to initiate the traffic stop and whether the search exceeded the scope of the encounter. If the firearm was found during a search that violated your Fourth Amendment rights, a motion to suppress could exclude the evidence. The Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend or dismiss the charge when the evidence is compromised. The defense team also evaluates whether any statutory exceptions apply—for example, whether the firearm was secured in a container and not readily accessible, or whether you held a valid concealed handgun permit that was simply not on your person at the time of the stop. Each case is different, and early legal intervention often makes a substantial difference in the outcome.
What to Expect at Virginia Beach General District Court
Your case will begin at the Virginia Beach General District Court, located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Building 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456. Misdemeanor concealed weapon charges—typical for a first offense—are resolved in this court. Felony charges move to Virginia Beach Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing. The process starts with an arraignment where you enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest. Your attorney can appear on your behalf for many procedural hearings. The timeline depends on the court’s docket and the complexity of your case, but a misdemeanor trial is usually scheduled within a matter of weeks. Throughout the process, your legal team will communicate with the prosecutor, review discovery, and assess whether a plea agreement or trial is in your best interest. Plea bargaining is permitted under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia; the Commonwealth’s Attorney and defense counsel may negotiate a plea agreement, which the court may accept or reject.
Penalty Overview
Virginia classifies carrying a concealed weapon without a permit as a Class 1 misdemeanor for a first offense. The maximum sentence is 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second or subsequent offense becomes a Class 6 felony, punishable by one to five years in prison or, at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail. Beyond incarceration, a concealed weapon conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, professional licensing, and firearm rights. An experienced attorney can help you understand the potential consequences and work toward an amendment, dismissal, or reduction of the charge. Results may vary.
Attorney Credentials
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor with extensive experience in criminal trial work. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against concealed weapon charges?
Defense strategies may include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, suppressing evidence obtained through an unconstitutional search, and raising statutory defenses such as the firearm being secured in a closed container. An experienced attorney evaluates the facts under Va. Code § 18.2‑308 and works toward the trusted resolution. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
What should I do if I am facing concealed weapon charges in Virginia Beach?
Contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any evidence related to the stop, including dashcam footage or witness contact information. The court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action to protect your rights. To discuss the details of your matter, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
What is the penalty for a concealed weapon charge in Virginia?
A first offense for carrying a concealed weapon is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A second or subsequent offense is a Class 6 felony, with a possible sentence of one to five years. Results may vary. Reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.
Can a concealed weapon charge be expunged in Virginia Beach?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged, but if your charge is dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may petition the Virginia Beach Circuit Court to clear your record. A consultation can help determine your eligibility.
Do I need a lawyer for a concealed weapon charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor concealed weapon conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, jail time, and loss of firearm rights. An experienced attorney can identify defenses, negotiate with the prosecutor, and protect your future. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747 to request a consultation.
What court handles concealed weapon cases in Virginia Beach?
Misdemeanor concealed weapon charges are heard in Virginia Beach General District Court at 2425 Nimmo Parkway. Felony charges proceed in Virginia Beach Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes these offenses. The firm regularly appears in both courts.
Speak with a Virginia Beach Concealed Weapon Attorney
If you have been charged with carrying a concealed weapon in Virginia Beach, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747 to request a consultation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team serve clients throughout Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana from their Richmond location. By appointment only.
Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395
Richmond, VA 23225
(888) 437‑7747
For criminal defense representation in other Virginia localities, see our pages on Fairfax County and Prince William County.
For a full statutory analysis of Virginia’s concealed weapon laws, review our comprehensive guide on srislawyer.com.
Primary source: Virginia Code Title 18.2 · Virginia Courts
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.