Expert: n/a - 6/26/2009

Question
I was charged in DC with misdemeanor Assault and misdemeanor Destruction
of Property.  Neither charge carried a maximum jail term of more than a year.  
They wound up charging me under something called the youthful offender
act/program.  The conviction was set aside.  I served 180 hours of community
service and was put on probation.  They wound up ending the probation
early.

I've been in no trouble since then.  I've joined the Army and deployed
overseas.

Here is the question, can I buy a handgun or rifle in Virginia?  I'm a bit
confused, do I have to wait five years?

Answer
If your conviction was set aside then you will be cleared 5 years after your conviction. You must apply and receive a Virginia CCW Permit in order to pass the NICS check.  Virginia State Police would approve you for the permit as long as your conviction was a misdemeanor and not a Domestic violence assault.  

Good Luck