A felon in possession charge in Caroline County is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carrying a mandatory minimum 2-year sentence; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Caroline County, all dismissed or not guilty.
Felon in Possession Lawyer in Caroline County, Virginia
Under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2, it is unlawful for any person convicted of a felony to knowingly and intentionally possess or transport a firearm in Virginia. This statute applies to any individual with a prior felony conviction, regardless of whether the conviction was in Virginia or another jurisdiction. A violation is a Class 6 felony, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison. The law also extends to persons convicted of certain misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence. The prohibition covers all firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. The Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knew you were a convicted felon and that you knowingly possessed the firearm. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | Caroline County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on the Caroline County General District Court, visit Caroline County General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site).
In Caroline County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek the mandatory minimum sentence for felon in possession charges. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Caroline County places significant weight on the defendant’s prior criminal history and the circumstances of the alleged possession.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve any evidence that may show lack of knowledge or possession.
- Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest.
- Attend all court hearings at Caroline County General District Court or Circuit Court.
- Work with your attorney to explore defense strategies, including challenging the legality of the search.
- Consider whether a plea agreement or alternative disposition is available.
In Caroline County, a felon in possession charge under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 carries a mandatory minimum 2-year sentence and up to 5 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of a Firearm | Class 6 Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years; up to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Permanent criminal record; loss of firearm rights; potential federal charges |
Results may vary.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Caroline County: 5 dismissed or not guilty — a favorable-outcome rate of 100% in all reported instances. Results may vary. These results do not guarantee a similar outcome in your case.
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 45 miles from Caroline County General District Court, with access via I-95 and Route 207. If you are searching for a felon in possession lawyer near Caroline County, we serve the communities of Bowling Green and Carmel Church. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Felon in Possession Charges in Caroline County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Caroline County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Caroline County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000.
Common charges include assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, petit larceny under $1,000 under Va. Code § 18.2-96, and driving on suspended under Va. Code § 46.2-301. Cases are heard at Caroline County General District Court (111 Ennis Street, Bowling Green, VA 22427).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Caroline County, Virginia?
Yes. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Caroline County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Caroline County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Caroline County.
Secured bond (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Caroline County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Caroline County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status.
Even a misdemeanor at Caroline County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Caroline County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences. Under Va. Code § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine; Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months, $1,000; Class 5 felony: 1-10 years (or up to 12 months plus $2,500 at jury discretion); Class 6 felony: 1-5 years. Early legal representation is critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Caroline County?
Caroline County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Caroline County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC.
You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Caroline County General District Court (111 Ennis Street, Bowling Green, VA 22427) is the GDC location.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against felon in possession of a firearm charges?
Defense strategies may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors.
An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-308.2 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing felon in possession of a firearm charges in Virginia?
Contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer.
Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
Learn more about our Petit Larceny Lawyer Virginia practice. For related services, see our Simple Assault Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach and Simple Assault Defense Lawyer Fredericksburg pages.
Page Last verified: May 2026. Content is regularly reviewed for accuracy.