Firearms Possession Lawyer Monroe County, NY

A firearms possession charge in Monroe County, New York can upend your life. Whether you face a misdemeanor count for unlawful possession of a weapon or a felony indictment alleging criminal possession of a firearm, the penalties are serious and the collateral consequences can be lasting. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents clients throughout Monroe County, including Rochester, Irondequoit, Greece, Brighton, Pittsford, and the surrounding Finger Lakes communities. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to defending firearms possession cases in Monroe County courts. We examine the legality of any search and seizure, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and work to protect your rights at every stage of the proceeding. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation about your firearms possession matter.
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What Firearms Possession Means in Monroe County, New York

Under New York law, firearms possession offenses are governed primarily by Article 265 of the New York Penal Law. Charges range from violations and misdemeanors—such as criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree (a Class A misdemeanor)—up to serious violent felonies like criminal possession of a weapon in the first degree (a Class B felony). The classification depends on the type of weapon, the circumstances of its possession, and the defendant’s prior record.

In Monroe County, misdemeanor-level weapons cases are heard in the local criminal court, while felony cases proceed to Monroe County Supreme Court Criminal Term. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non‑violent felonies, meaning many defendants are released on their own recognizance or with conditions; however, bail remains available for certain violent felony offenses. The court system in Monroe County operates within the Seventh Judicial District, and Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Regularly appears in the courts located at 99 Exchange Boulevard in Rochester.

The penalties for a firearms conviction can include imprisonment, probation, fines, and a permanent criminal record. A Class A misdemeanor carries up to one year in jail, while a Class E felony can result in a sentence of one to four years; higher‑level felonies carry substantially longer terms. Beyond the direct sentence, a weapons conviction may affect employment, housing, and firearm‑possession rights. Because of these stakes, retaining an experienced attorney early in the process is critical.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Firearms Possession Cases

When you contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., our first task is to understand exactly what happened and to identify every potential defense. We review the charging documents, examine the legality of any police stop, search, or seizure, and evaluate whether law enforcement followed the procedures required by the New York Criminal Procedure Law. If the evidence was obtained in violation of your constitutional rights, we move to suppress it.

In Monroe County, many first‑time weapons charges may be eligible for an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal (ACD) if the facts support it. An ACD allows the charges to be dismissed after a period of six to twelve months provided you stay out of further legal trouble. Our attorneys negotiate with the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office to pursue dismissal, reduction to a lesser offense, or diversion where appropriate. When trial is the trusted option, we prepare thoroughly and present a vigorous defense. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have handled firearms cases across New York and bring extensive combined legal experience to each matter. Results may vary. in your case.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor. He founded the firm in 1997 and has built a multi‑state practice that serves clients in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). That prosecutorial background gives him insight into how the government builds its case—insight he uses to craft a strong defense for each client.

Supporting Mr. Sris is his dedicated Of Counsel team, engaged through Excella. The collective experience of Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel spans every aspect of criminal defense, including firearms possession charges. While Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel oversees the firm’s Monroe County criminal matters, the entire team works collaboratively to analyze evidence, prepare motions, and represent clients in court. Reach our New York location at (888) 437-7747 to speak with us about your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What firearms possession charges can be brought in Monroe County, NY?

New York law defines several degrees of criminal possession of a weapon, ranging from a Class A misdemeanor to a violent felony. A person may be charged with criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree (misdemeanor) for possessing a firearm or other prohibited weapon under circumstances that are not otherwise lawful. Higher‑level charges, such as criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree (a Class C violent felony), apply when a person possesses a loaded firearm with intent to use it unlawfully. The specific charge depends on the type of weapon, the location of the alleged possession, and any prior criminal history. In Monroe County, the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office determines the charges based on the facts presented by law enforcement.

Does New York have cash bail for firearms possession?

New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanor and non‑violent felony charges, including many weapons possession offenses. Many defendants charged with criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree are released on their own recognizance. However, cash bail may still be set for certain violent firearm felonies, such as criminal possession of a weapon in the first degree, or if the defendant has a history of prior felony convictions. In Monroe County, a person arrested for a firearms offense is typically brought before the local criminal court for arraignment, where the judge makes a bail determination.

What is an ACD and can it be used for a weapons charge?

An adjournment in contemplation of dismissal (ACD) is a New York disposition that allows a criminal charge to be dismissed after a period of six to twelve months if the defendant avoids new arrests. It is often available for first‑time, non‑violent offenses, including some misdemeanor weapons possession cases. In Monroe County, the Monroe County Criminal Court may grant an ACD for eligible defendants if the District Attorney’s Office consents. Upon successful completion of the ACD period, the charge is automatically dismissed and can be sealed. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate whether an ACD is appropriate in each case and advocate for it when possible.

Can I get a firearms possession conviction sealed in Monroe County?

New York allows conditional sealing of certain convictions under CPL ? 160.59, but eligibility is limited and depends on the offense and your criminal history. A person convicted of a firearms offense may apply for sealing ten years after the sentence is satisfied if they have no more than two eligible prior convictions. Results from successful ACDs are sealed automatically. In Monroe County, the sealing process is handled through the court that entered the judgment. Because the eligibility rules are complex, consulting an experienced attorney is essential. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can assess your record and advise whether you qualify.

What should I do if I am arrested for firearms possession in Monroe County?

If you are arrested for a firearms possession offense in Monroe County, ask to speak with an attorney before you answer any questions. Do not discuss the facts of your case with law enforcement. Remember your right to remain silent and your right to legal representation. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 as soon as possible. Our attorneys will advise you through each step of the process, from the initial court appearance through resolution of the case.

We Serve Clients Across New York

Criminal Defense Lawyer New York County (Manhattan) •
Criminal Defense Lawyer Kings County (Brooklyn) •
Criminal Defense Lawyer Queens County •
Criminal Defense Lawyer Richmond County (Staten Island) •
Criminal Defense Lawyer Nassau County (Long Island)

Legal Framework and Resources

New York Penal Law Article 265 (Firearms and Weapons) •
New York Criminal Procedure Law •
Monroe County Supreme Court

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