Portsmouth Gun Lawyer

Virginia has a wide range of gun laws, from possession and discharge to carrying guns in prohibited places. A Portsmouth gun lawyer who has experience with this type of law can help you with your case, as these laws can be quite complex and the penalties for violation are substantial. Contact a gun lawyer in Portsmouth to assist with your case.

A Gun Attorney in Portsmouth Can Protect You

There’s no reason to face serious criminal charges and penalties alone—not when a Portsmouth gun attorney from our firm can guide and defend you in your time of need. Our gun lawyers in Portsmouth have experience working with many different types of gun cases. We understand that no two cases are alike, which is why our attorneys are dedicated to conducting a thorough investigation of the events leading up to the charges and generating a unique defense plan based on your personal needs and circumstances.

Don’t feel forced to defend yourself or  to be talked into a plea deal you aren’t sure is the best choice for you. Call a Portsmouth gun attorney at our firm as soon as possible to conduct your free legal consultation.

Who Can Own a Gun?

Not all residents in Virginia are allowed to own a gun. Virginia gun laws provide a whole list of individuals who are not permitted to own or possess a gun. This includes anyone who has been acquitted of a crime by reason of insanity, according to Virginia Code Section 18.2-308.1:1(A), those who are legally incompetent (VA Code 18.2-308.1:2), individuals committed to mental health facilities (VA Code 18.2-308.1:3(A)), people who have protective orders against them (VA Code 18.2-308.1:4), anyone with two or more drug-related misdemeanor convictions (VA Code 18.2-308.1:5), and anyone with a felony conviction (VA Code 18.2-308.2(A)), to name a few. The penalties for illegally possessing a gun can be severe, including jail time and hefty fines, depending upon the crime. An experienced Portsmouth gun lawyer knows the possible sentences for gun crimes and can help you deal with a potential conviction.

Places Where Guns are Not Allowed

If you legally own a gun, it is important that you know the particular places you are not permitted to take the gun. There are a number of places in Virginia where guns are prohibited. Possessing a gun in these locations, even if you legally own it, is a crime. These includes places of worship (VA Code 18.2-283), courthouses (VA Code 18.2-283.1), and airport terminals (VA Code 18.2-287.01). There are also provisions in the Virginia Code regarding having loaded guns in public places (VA Code 18.2-287.4). Violating any of these provisions will subject you to a criminal charge with penalties of up to 12 months in jail and/or up to $2500 in fines.

Crimes Involving Firing and Handling Guns

Virginia also has laws on how and where guns are permitted to be fired. It is illegal to discharge a weapon inside or at a building (VA Code 18.2-279), as well as in public spaces (VA Code 18.2-280(A)), including on school property or within 1,000 feet of a school (VA Code 18.2-280(B)-(C)), and across public roads (VA Code 18.2-286) and from a vehicle (VA Code 18.2-286.1).

Responsible gun ownership is required in Virginia, and there are a number of laws that could subject you to a criminal charge if you violate them. This includes recklessly handling a gun (VA Code 18.2-56.1), giving a child access to a gun (VA Code 18.2-56.2), and brandishing a gun in public (VA Code 18.2-282).

A Portsmouth Gun Lawyer Can Help You

If you’re faced with any of the above gun crimes, let an experienced Portsmouth gun lawyer help you with your case. Knowing what you are facing ahead of time and understanding all possible outcomes will give you the confidence you need to face your day in court.