Weapons Offenses in Virginia: What the Court Data Shows

According to 63,219 public court records from 2023–2024, Weapons Offense cases across 122 Virginia jurisdictions have an average dismissal rate of 61.3% and an average conviction rate of 36.0%.

Weapons offenses in Virginia include firearms violations and other weapons-related charges. This page examines what public court records reveal about how these cases are resolved across the state.

What Our Data Shows About Weapons Offense Outcomes

Our analysis of 63,220 weapons offense cases across 122 Virginia jurisdictions (2023-2024) reveals:

• 57.9% average dismissal rate — the majority of weapons cases do not result in conviction
• 39.6% average conviction rate
• 141 days average median case duration
• Dismissal rates range from 26.3% to 86.2% across jurisdictions

View weapons offense statistics across all Virginia jurisdictions for detailed data on each court.

Variation Across Virginia

Weapons offense outcomes differ depending on which court hears the case:

• Highest dismissal rates: Fairfax County (86.2%), Northumberland County (85.7%), Charles City County (78.6%)
• Lowest dismissal rates: Scott County (33.5%), Madison County (35.7%), Rappahannock County (36.0%)

These differences may reflect that weapons charges are frequently filed alongside other charges. In some jurisdictions, weapons counts are more likely to be dismissed as part of plea negotiations on the primary charge.

Understanding Weapons Offense Statistics

When reviewing our data, keep in mind:

• This category encompasses various weapons-related charges, from concealed carry violations to more serious firearms offenses
• Dismissal includes judicial dismissals and nolle prosequi
• Weapons charges are sometimes filed alongside other charges, and outcomes may reflect plea negotiations across multiple counts
• These are aggregate statistics — individual outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case

Next Steps

For information about Virginia weapons laws, consult a licensed Virginia attorney or visit the Virginia Legislative Information System.

To explore how weapons offense cases are resolved in your specific court, view our weapons offense data by jurisdiction.