Diving Deep into Virginia Gun Laws
Virginia’s stance on gun crimes and charges is nothing short of intense. With over 30 gun-related offenses to potentially be charged with (the majority being felonies with non-negotiable minimum sentences) it’s a whirlwind of legal intricacies that is almost impossible to navigate on your own. If you’ve found yourself being charged with any weapon-related offense, you should seek council immediately to give yourself the best shot at keeping your freedoms.
Virginia’s Gun Laws: A Dynamic Landscape
Virginia’s gun laws are nearly countless, with numerous paths leading to potential charges, hefty fines and even time behind bars. Here’s a snapshot of some of the most prevalent gun crimes in the state:
Concealed Carry Without a Permit: If you’re caught carrying a concealed weapon without the right permit, you’re looking at a Class 1 misdemeanor. This could mean up to a year behind bars or a fine that hits the $2,500 mark.
Firearm Brandishing: Wave a firearm in a way that threatens another person with its use? That’s a Class 1 Misdemeanor. If you’re guilty of this on school grounds, then you’re heading into Class 6 felony territory.
Felons & Firearms: Virginia’s clear-cut on this – felons and firearms don’t mix. Possessing a firearm as a felon lands you with a Class 6 felony charge, translating to one to five years of prison time. After a felony conviction, you lose your right to bear arms in the state of Virginia.
School Grounds: Toting a firearm on school property? That’s a Class 6 felony waiting to happen.
Guns & Drugs: If you’re caught with a gun and schedule I or II drugs, you’re in hot water. It’s a Class 6 felony, and if that firearm was close at hand while you had those drugs, the penalty intensifies.
Displaying a Firearm While Committing a Felony: Showcasing a firearm while taking part in major felonies? That’s a no-go. This charge comes with a three-year mandatory sentence for first-timers and five years for repeat offenders.
Discharging a Firearm in a Building: Accidentally discharging a gun in a building is a Class 6 felony. But if someone loses their life? You’re looking at involuntary manslaughter charges.
Virginia’s Gun Crime
To truly grasp the gravity of gun crimes in Virginia, the statistics can speak volumes. The Virginia State Police reported a staggering 4,000+ firearm incidents in 2022, leading to over 1,500 injuries and nearly 300 tragic deaths. The Gun Violence Archive paints a similar grim picture, with over 1,000 gun violence incidents, resulting in 400+ deaths and 900 injuries.
The Bureau of Justice Statistics adds another layer, noting a 15% drop in violent crime (excluding simple assault) from 2018 to 2019. Yet, firearms remain a dominant force in crime, being the weapon of choice in 74% of all reported U.S. murders.
Navigating the Gun Law Labyrinth with Korslund Law
Staring down the barrel of gun charges in Virginia is a harrowing ordeal. The stakes are sky-high, and the consequences can reshape your life. This is where Korslund Law steps in, armed with a deep understanding of Virginia’s gun laws and a track record of defending clients with vigor.
Knowledge is power. Grasping Virginia’s gun laws can be your shield against potential charges and penalties. If you’re caught in the crosshairs of gun charges, don’t delay. Korslund Law stands ready to guide you through the legal maze, ensuring the best possible outcome.
