The right to bear arms in Virginia is taken very seriously, and while it’s a right provided by the national and state constitutions, Virginia also wishes to ensure the safety of its residents. Virginia gun laws are comprehensive and clear to help provide people with both the right to carry and the right to safety.
Buying a Gun in Virginia
In order to buy a rifle or shotgun in Virginia, the purchaser must be at least 18 years old, but in order to purchase a handgun, they have to be at least 21. They must purchase their handgun from a licensed dealer who can perform the mandatory background check.
The background check is performed by the Virginia State Police, and the dealer could charge a fee of up to $15 in order to perform the check. Along with this background check, the state of Virginia doesn’t allow the purchase of more than one handgun per month, unless the gun purchaser carries a Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit.
Lying about your criminal history while purchasing a gun under false statements could result in a Class 5 felony, which can result in years in prison. Dealers who lie on the form could receive a Class 2 misdemeanor charge. This exists so that the process remains reliable. Anyone who sells firearms illegally could be charged with a Class 6 felony.
Firearm Laws in Virginia
In Virginia, 1,234 people were killed due to firearms in 2023. Virginia has established firm laws and harsh penalties to help avoid more deaths in the future.
It is legal to openly carry a gun in our state if the carrier is over eighteen years old. There are restrictions, however. Open carrying means to carry the gun in a way that is visible. Carrying a concealed weapon requires a special permit called the Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). Those seeking a CHP must be at least 21 years old and apply to the Clerk of Circuit Court, on the third floor of the courthouse on Lee Avenue in Manassas.
The following reasons might disqualify someone from owning or carrying a gun:
- If you have a felony conviction
- If you have had a misdemeanor conviction that involved assault and battery against a family member, such as in a domestic violence situation
- If you have been convicted of assault and battery against a family member as a juvenile delinquent
- If you have been acquitted due to reasons of insanity or mental health disorders
- If you have a protective order against you, especially if you are accused of stalking, threatening, or harassing your family members or partner
Hire a Gun Crime Lawyer
Because guns are taken seriously, if you are facing charges, it is crucial to hire a gun crime lawyer. They can ensure that you have the representation you need to avoid some of the harsh gun crime penalties or to have your case dismissed. Gun crime lawyers are criminal defense attorneys with extensive experience representing people facing gun crime charges.
Along with having in-depth knowledge of federal and state gun laws, a Virginia gun crime attorney has the ability to:
- Investigate the charges
- Explain the possible penalties to you
- Devise a defensive strategy on your behalf
- Provide legal counsel
- Prepare proper legal documents
- Protect your rights
- Represent you in court
- Negotiate a plea deal, if applicable
At Morrison Brown PLC, we are passionate about helping our clients achieve a favorable outcome. You do not have to face these charges and the potential life-changing consequences alone. We will fight for you with compassion and integrity.
FAQs
Can I Carry a Loaded Gun in Virginia Without a Permit?
Because Virginia is an open carry state, it is legal to carry a loaded gun in Virginia without a permit, but there are restrictions. The carrier must be at least 18 years old and cannot carry specific weapons that hold more than twenty rounds. You may not carry in certain public locations, like schools, churches, courthouses, and more. Cities may make carrying a loaded weapon unlawful. Manassas Park recently made carrying firearms in public buildings illegal.
Can I Carry a Pistol in My Car in Virginia?
In Virginia, it is legal to carry a pistol in your car, as long as it is kept in a secure place, like a glove compartment or center console. People who have a concealed weapon permit are allowed to store their weapon anywhere in their car, even if they come from out of state. Having a pistol in your vehicle on school property or on courthouse property, like the Prince William General District Court on Lee Avenue, is prohibited.
What Are the Gun Restrictions in Virginia?
Owning a gun in Virginia is part of the Bill of Rights. You must be at least 18 years of age to buy a rifle or shotgun and at least 21 years of age to buy a handgun from a licensed dealer to ensure that a mandatory background check is completed. A permit isn’t needed to open carry, but is necessary to carry a concealed weapon. Firearms are not allowed on certain public properties, especially not on school grounds.
Can a Non-Resident Carry in Virginia?
Non-residents visiting Virginia are allowed to open carry, and the same laws and regulations apply to them that apply to residents. They must be legally allowed to own and carry a gun in their home state to do so in Virginia. Reciprocity agreements with other states also allow a nonresident who is 21 years or older with a concealed carry permit in another state to conceal carry in Virginia.
Contact Morrison Brown PLC Today
If you are facing gun crime charges, it is vital that you speak to a gun crime lawyer today. The penalties for breaking gun laws in Virginia are harsh and require swift and decisive action from an attorney with an extensive understanding of these laws.
Our law firm is passionate about fighting these criminal charges, and with decades of combined experience, we can tailor our experience to your unique needs. We have a deep commitment to standing with you through these charges because we care about your future.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential and judgment-free consultation.
