Firearms Possession Lawyer Queens County, NY

Facing a firearms possession charge in Queens County can be overwhelming. New York law treats weapons-related offenses seriously, and a conviction can carry lasting consequences, from incarceration to a permanent criminal record. Whether you were arrested for possessing an unlicensed handgun, a loaded firearm, or a weapon you were not legally permitted to carry, the outcome of your case may depend on the quality of your legal representation early on. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team concentrate a substantial portion of their practice on criminal defense in New York, including firearms possession matters in Queens County. The firm’s New York location serves clients throughout Queens, from Jamaica and Flushing to Astoria, Long Island City, Forest Hills, and beyond. A thorough understanding of the local courts—including the procedures at the Queens County Supreme Court and the NYC Criminal Court in Queens—can be essential to building an effective defense. To discuss your situation, call (888) 437-7747 and schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Firearms Possession Charges Mean in Queens County

New York firearms possession laws are codified in the New York Penal Law and cover a broad range of prohibited conduct. A person may be charged with criminal possession of a weapon in the second, third, or fourth degree depending on factors such as the type of weapon, where the possession occurred, whether the firearm was loaded, and the individual’s prior criminal record. In Queens County, both the NYC Criminal Court (for misdemeanor-level offenses) and the Queens County Supreme Court (for felony charges) handle firearms cases. The Supreme Court building at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 is the venue for all felony weapons prosecutions in the borough.

Queens County’s legal landscape has been shaped by New York’s 2020 bail reform, which eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies. This means many defendants charged with lower-level firearms possession are released on their own recognizance pending trial, but the stakes remain high. A conviction can lead to significant prison time—felony sentences range from a mandatory minimum of several years to life imprisonment in the most serious cases. Even a misdemeanor weapons conviction can result in a jail term of up to one year and collateral consequences such as loss of employment, immigration issues, and the stigma of a criminal record. Because the prosecution must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, a defense that challenges the legality of the search, the chain of custody, or the sufficiency of the evidence may significantly change the trajectory of a case. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with the procedural patterns of the Queens County District Attorney’s Office and the expectations of the courts in the 11th Judicial District, which helps them anticipate the prosecution’s approach and craft a tailored response.

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

When a client retains Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a firearms possession charge, the first step is a careful review of the arrest report, the charging documents, and any available discovery. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, brings an insider’s understanding of how the state assembles a weapons case. He and his Of Counsel analyze whether law enforcement had probable cause for the stop or search, whether Miranda warnings were properly administered, and whether any forensic evidence (such as ballistics or DNA testing) was handled correctly. If procedural deficiencies are identified, the firm may move to suppress evidence or seek dismissal of the charges.

In many first-offense situations, New York law allows for an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD). Under an ACD, the court adjourns the case for a period of six to twelve months, and if the defendant avoids any new arrests during that time, the charges are dismissed and the record can be sealed. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate whether an ACD or another diversionary disposition may be available and negotiate with the prosecution to secure the most favorable result possible. Throughout the process, the firm keeps clients informed of each development—arraignments, motion practice, plea negotiations, and, if necessary, trial. Because the firm’s attorneys have experience appearing in Queens County courts, they can provide clients with a grounded assessment of how a particular judge or court part typically handles firearms cases, without making any prediction about a specific outcome.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., established the firm in 1997. A former prosecutor, Mr. Sris has a firsthand understanding of how the prosecution builds a criminal case, which informs his defense approach in firearms and other serious criminal matters. He is admitted to practice law in New York, Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and New Jersey. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), reflecting his engagement with legislative processes that affect clients’ legal rights.

Mr. Sris works alongside a dedicated Of Counsel team—experienced attorneys who concentrate in criminal defense and who are available to support his cases. The firm’s Of Counsel are not employees but are engaged through Excella, providing additional depth of knowledge and courtroom experience without the structure of a traditional associate system. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are equipped to handle the procedural requirements of Queens County courts, from initial appearance through trial or disposition. To speak with Mr. Sris or a member of his team about a firearms possession matter, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the penalties for firearms possession in Queens County, New York?

Penalties for firearms possession in New York range from a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail to a violent felony carrying a possible life sentence, depending on the specific charge and the defendant’s prior record. A fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon charge (often a misdemeanor for certain unlawful possession) can result in a jail term of up to one year. A second-degree weapons charge, such as possession of a loaded firearm outside the home or place of business, is a violent felony with a mandatory minimum term of several years. The sentence is influenced by the circumstances of the arrest and any aggravating factors, and an experienced attorney can evaluate the potential sentencing exposure in your particular case.

Can I get a firearms possession charge dismissed in Queens County?

A firearms possession charge can sometimes be dismissed, reduced, or resolved through an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD), especially for first-time offenders. An ACD puts the case on hold for a period set by the court; if no new arrests occur, the charges are dismissed and the record is sealed. Additionally, if the police conducted an illegal search or lacked probable cause, a motion to suppress evidence may lead to dismissal. Every case is different, and a favorable outcome depends on the specific facts and the legal arguments raised by defense counsel.

What should I do if I am arrested for a firearms offense in Queens?

If you are arrested for a firearms offense in Queens County, invoke your right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the facts of the case with law enforcement, even if they seem friendly or suggest that talking will help. Contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Your attorney can advise you on the bail process—which may be streamlined under New York’s 2020 bail reforms—and begin investigating the case right away. Early intervention often makes a difference in preserving evidence, identifying witnesses, and shaping the defense strategy before the first court appearance.

Will a firearms conviction affect my immigration status?

A firearms conviction can carry severe immigration consequences, including deportation, inadmissibility, or denial of naturalization. Under federal immigration law, certain crimes involving firearms may be classified as aggravated felonies or crimes involving moral turpitude. Even a misdemeanor conviction can trigger removal proceedings for a non-citizen. If you are not a U.S. Citizen, it is critical that your criminal defense attorney coordinates with an immigration lawyer to assess the full range of consequences and to structure any plea agreement in a manner that minimizes immigration risk.

How does the court process work for a firearms case in Queens County?

After an arrest, you will be scheduled for an arraignment—usually within 24 hours—at the Queens County Criminal Court or, for felony charges, the Queens County Supreme Court. At arraignment, you will be informed of the charges, and bail will be set or you may be released on recognizance. Following arraignment, the case proceeds through discovery, motion practice, and possible plea negotiations. If the case is not resolved, it will go to trial. An attorney who regularly appears in Queens courts can navigate the procedural timelines and local court culture effectively. The firm’s counsel can prepare you for what to expect at each stage and represent your interests throughout.

Do I need a lawyer for a firearm possession charge in Queens County?

You are not required by law to hire a lawyer, but representing yourself in a firearms case is rarely advisable given the complexity of New York weapons laws and the potential for serious penalties. A conviction can affect your freedom, your right to possess firearms in the future, your employment, and your immigration status. An experienced defense attorney can identify viable defenses, negotiate with the district attorney, and advise you on the likelihood of different outcomes. To discuss whether legal representation is right for your situation, call (888) 437-7747.

Serving Neighboring Counties

In addition to Queens County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients in other New York City boroughs and surrounding areas. If your case arises in a different jurisdiction, you may find these pages helpful:

Helpful Legal Resources

For more information about the laws governing firearms in New York, you can review the official sources:

Last reviewed: July 2026

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