Defending Clients from Weapons Charges in Fredericksburg, Virginia with Dedication and Skill

Helping those who face criminal charges related to firearms and other weapons

As a general rule, Virginia does not require you to have a permit to purchase or possess a rifle, shotgun or handgun. But federal, state and local laws do make it a crime to possess, conceal, carry, transport, use and display guns and other weapons in a variety of circumstances. These laws are meant to protect citizens and society from potential danger. Any weapon can result in injury or death if used improperly or if purposely used upon others. Gun laws and other statutes address these situations by criminalizing specific conduct and actions when weapons are involved.

At Woodbridge, Coleman & Stevens, P.C. Attorneys at Law we represent gun owners and others accused of violating weapons laws, offering energetic criminal defense against charges of all kinds.

One of the most common criminal charges in this area is unlawfully concealing a weapon. Virginia permits people to openly carry a handgun, with some exceptions, but carrying a concealed weapon is a misdemeanor as a first offense and a felony for second and subsequent offenses.

The list of weapons to which the law applies is broad and includes some knives and many other weapons besides guns. There are exceptions to the law that apply to law enforcement and persons in their own place of business, among others, but the exceptions are few. You can also fight a charge of carrying a concealed weapon if the weapon is a handgun and you have a valid concealed handgun permit.

Using a pistol, shotgun, rifle or other firearm while committing or attempting to commit most felonies, or displaying such in a threatening manner in connection with a felony, is a crime separate and apart from the underlying criminal conduct. This means that you can be charged with murder, rape, robbery, carjacking or other crimes and also be charged with a separate and distinct felony for using a weapon when committing the crime. As such, you may receive prison time for the weapons charge and a punishment for committing the underlying felony during which the weapon was used.

It is also unlawful for a convicted felon to possess or transport a firearm, firearm ammunition, stun weapon or explosives. However, by petitioning the governor or a court authority, a felon may, under certain circumstances, have the right to possess, transport and carry a gun restored.

What is considered a weapon under Virginia law?

Weapons that may result in criminal charges under various Virginia laws include the following:

Working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer is advisable if you are charged with violating weapons laws. A skilled attorney can explain the charges against you and defend your rights.

Contact criminal defense attorneys in Fredericksburg, Virginia if you are charged with a gun or weapons crime

At Woodbridge, Coleman & Stevens, P.C. Attorneys at Law we defend those charged with violating federal, state and local gun and weapons laws. A free initial consultation allows our clients to determine if we would be a good fit. You can find our office in downtown Fredericksburg, near the courthouses. Contact us online or call us at 540-373-5300. We serve clients throughout the city of Fredericksburg and Caroline, Spotsylvania, Stafford, King George, Prince William, Fairfax, Culpeper, Westmoreland and Hanover counties.