Concealed Weapon Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Carrying a concealed weapon in Arlington County without a valid permit 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 concealed carry violations and weapons charges in Arlington County General District Court.
Virginia Law on Concealed Weapons
Virginia law strictly regulates the carrying of concealed weapons. A “concealed weapon” is any firearm or other weapon designed to shoot or expel a projectile, or any weapon of like kind, that is hidden from common observation. Va. Code § 18.2-308 prohibits carrying such a weapon concealed on or about your person without a valid permit issued by the circuit court of your county or city of residence.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Va. Code § 18.2-308 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available through the Arlington County General District Court website.
Defending a Concealed Weapon Charge in Arlington County
Arlington County prosecutors take weapons charges seriously. A strong defense often hinges on challenging the legality of the search or seizure that discovered the weapon, or proving an exception to the permit requirement applied. In Arlington County General District Court, prosecutors must prove you knowingly and intentionally carried a concealed weapon without authority.
- Initial Court Appearance (Arraignment): You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest. For a concealed weapon charge, pleading not guilty preserves all your defense options.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if the weapon was found through an unlawful search or seizure, which can lead to the charge being dismissed.
- Negotiation & Review: Your lawyer will review the Commonwealth’s evidence and negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, reduction, or favorable plea agreement based on the strengths and weaknesses of the case.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in Arlington County General District Court, where the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for a Concealed Weapons Charge
In Arlington County, a concealed weapons charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308 is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a mandatory loss of your right to carry a firearm.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory firearm prohibition | Permanent criminal record |
| Carrying Concealed Weapon (Subsequent Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory firearm prohibition | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your 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 over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the severe implications of a weapons charge and work to protect your rights and future.
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
Documented Case Results in Arlington County
Our team has achieved documented results for clients in Arlington County. In one case, a charge for Destruction of Property with Intent under $1000 (Va. Code § 18.2-137) was resolved via a nolle prosequi (dismissal by the prosecutor). In another, a Fare Evasion charge was dismissed. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, who provides strategic oversight.
Local Defense Near Arlington County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients facing charges at the Arlington County General District Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). We provide representation for individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Arlington County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Arlington County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Concealed weapon charges are typically Class 1 misdemeanors.
Can I get a concealed carry violation expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 only for acquittals, dismissals (nolle prosequi), or cases where you were found not guilty. A conviction for a concealed carry violation generally cannot be expunged from your record.
Do I need a weapons charge defense lawyer in Arlington County?
Yes. Charges are prosecuted by the Arlington Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even a misdemeanor carries jail time and creates a permanent record. A weapons charge defense lawyer Arlington County can challenge evidence and seek a reduction or dismissal.
What’s the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a concealed carry violation lawyer Arlington County case?
Arlington County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor concealed weapon trials. If you are charged with a subsequent offense as a felony, or if you appeal a GDC conviction or demand a jury trial, your case moves to Arlington County Circuit Court.
What are common defenses to a concealed weapon charge?
Common defenses include having a valid concealed handgun permit, the weapon was not “concealed” as defined by law, the item was not a “weapon,” or the weapon was discovered through an unconstitutional search or seizure by law enforcement.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related charges in nearby areas like Alexandria. If you are facing other charges, explore our services for DUI defense or reckless driving in Arlington.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.