Serious charges require experienced representation. Contact Cody Villalon today.
If you have been convicted of a felony, you are likely well aware of the seriousness of the crime you committed. That said, if you have fulfilled the terms of your punishment (be it jail time, fines, home arrest, etc.) and served your time, you are likely ready to move forward with your life. However, it is important to realize those convicted of felonies may face additional restrictions. In particular, in Virginia, convicted felons are prohibited by law from owning a gun.
As a convicted felon, if you are found in possession or control of a firearm, you may be in danger of facing criminal charges that can have a significant impact on your life.
Virginia takes the violation of these laws seriously; the repercussions can be severe. In situations like this, engaging experienced and knowledgeable legal representation is in your best interests. Make no mistake, this is not a situation you should handle on your own.
Cody Villalon is a seasoned criminal defense attorney committed to serving those in and around Richmond. He is well-known for his dedication to hands-on service; as a sole practitioner, he personally handles each of his cases. Contact him at 804.316.0765 to schedule your free consultation and learn how he would approach your gun possession case.
Why Choose Cody Villalon to Represent You in Your Firearms Possession Case?
Experience, Knowledge, and Approach Make a Real Difference
As a convicted felon facing gun possession charges, your future is at stake. The legal battle on which you are about to embark is serious, and the outcome can impact your life going forward. Therefore, engaging the right attorney for your specific situation is the first, and perhaps most important, decision you must make. Many individuals facing similar charges in Richmond and the surrounding area reach out to Cody Villalon for their legal needs.
In cases like this, experience is important. Cody Villalon has been providing criminal defense services to individuals in the Richmond area for more than a decade. Because his practice is dedicated specifically to criminal law, he has developed a broad base of experience from which to draw upon when serving new clients. He knows how to handle cases involving convicted felons and gun possession.
Additionally, over time, Mr. Villalon has developed strong professional relationships in the Richmond legal community. He knows the judges and prosecutors and can use this when negotiating on behalf of his clients.
Finally, when Mr. Villalon founded his firm, he did so with the commitment to carefully manage his caseload to personally represent each of his clients. He understands the value of his service lies directly in his knowledge and experience and is dedicated to leveraging these for each person with whom he works. He also places a high priority on his recognition that no two cases are identical. So, while he is able to draw upon his experience, he always takes the time to thoroughly investigate and understand each individual situation. In cases like this, details matter.
Mr. Villalon is proud of the reputation he has earned. Nothing speaks more strongly to that than the testimonials of his past clients. He invites you to take some time and review their experiences — without a doubt, you can expect the same.
What Cody Villalon Will Do For You
He Will Personally Manage All Aspects of Your Case
Because Cody Villalon is committed to handling all aspects of your case from start to finish, you can rest assured that nothing will fall through the cracks. He personally manages everything. With Cody as your attorney for your gun possession case, you can be sure that he will:
- Take the time to appreciate exactly what happened to you, before, during, and after your arrest
- Ensure that you understand your rights
- Review all pertinent information, including police reports
- Interview any witnesses
- Determine the best course of action for your case
- Represent you at all hearings including your arraignments
- Arrange for bail if possible
- Negotiate with the prosecutors on your behalf
- Litigate your case, if necessary.
Cody will keep you apprised of the status of your case at all times; you will never have to wonder about what is happening. Additionally, he understands that as a convicted felon facing gun possession charges, you have a plethora of questions. Phone calls are always welcome; he will address all your concerns as they arise.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
Cody Villalon Responds to Your Concerns
Convicted felons charged with firearms possession naturally have a lot of questions; their freedoms are at stake. Below we have shared some of those asked most often, along with Cody Villalon’s responses.
Do convicted felons face limitations on their rights after they have served their sentences?
Yes, they do. In Virginia, felony convictions have long-lasting repercussions which may include the right to vote and the ability to serve on a jury. Additionally, if you have been convicted of a crime with a penalty of more than one year in prison, you would be prohibited from possessing a firearm in the state.
Other than an actual gun, as a convicted felon what am I prohibited from possessing?
In addition to firearms, convicted felons may not possess ammunition, concealed weapons, stun weapons, or explosive materials. Your criminal defense attorney can review the charges and confirm whether the items in your possession fall under this umbrella.
I am a convicted felon and was arrested for possession of a firearm, but I was not holding the gun. Can I still be held accountable?
Yes, you can. In Virginia, possession can be either active or constructive. So, if the gun was nearby, you can be convicted even if you did not have physical possession of it.
Who exactly is prohibited from possessing a gun under Virginia Code §18.2-308.2?
This law impacts individuals convicted of a felony in addition to those adjudicated delinquent for a violent crime committed at age 14 or older or those under 20 adjudicated delinquent for a felony if it was committed by an adult when they were over 14 when the crime was committed. Your criminal defense attorney can review your history to determine if this applies to you.
What is the punishment if I am found guilty?
The punishment if convicted is severe. You may be sentenced to 1-5 years in prison or up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. The mandatory minimum sentence for a nonviolent felon convicted within 10 years is 2 consecutive years in jail. Violent felons convicted of possession face a mandatory minimum of five consecutive years in prison.
Are there any exceptions that would allow a convicted felon to have a gun?
Yes, there are. First, if you are a working member of the National Guard or any of the armed forces you are permitted to have a firearm, as you need, for work. Additionally, stun weapons may be possessed inside or just outside a convicted felon’s residence. Finally, in certain circumstances, the right to possess a firearm may be restored. Your criminal defense attorney will review your background and, if you fulfill the criteria, will use this information in negotiating your case and building your defense.
Hopefully, the information above is helpful. Cody Villalon is available to address your more specific concerns at your convenience. Reach out to him to schedule your free consultation.
Protect Yourself and Your Future
Cody Villalon Knows How to Defend Felons Accused of Firearm Possession
As a convicted felon, being charged with possession of a firearm in Virginia is incredibly serious. With minimum mandatory prison sentences on the table, you need professional legal representation.
Cody Villalon founded his firm on the belief that everyone in Virginia is entitled to high-quality defense services. He has committed himself to providing personal legal representation to those who need it most.
Contact Us Immediately
As a convicted felon, if you have been charged with firearm possession or believe you will be, time is of the essence. By reaching out to us as soon as possible, you provide us the opportunity to leverage time on your behalf in building your defense. We understand and appreciate the gravity of your situation and share your concern for your future.
Our goal is to minimize the impact of this event on your life. Contact Cody Villalon today at 804.316.0765 to schedule your free consultation. We are ready to go to work for you immediately.
DEFENSE ATTORNEY CODY VILLALON
Cody Villalon is a criminal defense attorney in Richmond, VA representing clients accused of violent offenses and DUIs, and he specializes in serious criminal charges. He possesses more than 10 years of legal experience, has defended more than 1,000 cases, and has spent more than 5,000 hours in court. He is highly professional and well-respected by prosecutors and judges. [ Attorney Bio ]
