Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in King William County, Virginia
Facing a federal charge under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) for use of a firearm in a crime of violence in King William County carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in federal prison, consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in King William County. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Understanding 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) — Use of a Firearm in a Crime of Violence
Under federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) criminalizes the use, carrying, or possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime. A “crime of violence” under this statute includes offenses such as robbery, kidnapping, assault with a dangerous weapon, and certain federal felonies that have as an element the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against another person. Conviction under § 924(c) carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for the first offense, which must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed. If the firearm is brandished, the minimum increases to 7 years; if discharged, 10 years. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII — official site)
Official Legal References
Review the full text of the statute at the official government source: 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines applicable to firearm offenses, see U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSC — official site).
Insider Knowledge: Federal Firearm Charges in King William County
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek the maximum mandatory minimum under § 924(c). We have observed that early intervention — before indictment — can sometimes prevent the firearm charge from being filed at all.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present.
- Contact a 924c charge defense lawyer King William County immediately.
- Preserve all evidence, including communications and surveillance footage.
- Review the indictment for procedural errors or insufficient evidence.
- File pretrial motions to suppress evidence obtained in violation of your rights.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a potential plea agreement.
In King William County, use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries severe mandatory minimum sentences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use/Carry/Possess Firearm During Crime of Violence (First Offense) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Loss of firearm rights; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Brandishing Firearm During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 7 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Loss of firearm rights; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Discharging Firearm During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 10 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Loss of firearm rights; supervised release up to 5 years |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Firearm Defense?
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Our team understands the details of federal firearm charges under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) and the unique procedures of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Case Results in King William County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 2 documented results in King William County: 0 dismissed or not guilty, 2 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary. Firm-wide, SRIS has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 30 miles from King William County General District Court (351 Courthouse Lane, Suite 201, King William, VA 23086), with access via Route 30, Route 360, and Route 33. We serve as a gun enhancement defense lawyer King William County for clients facing federal firearm charges. Serving the communities of King William, West Point, and Aylett. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond, 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (804) 201-9009. By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Firearm Charges
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical. Cases are heard at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia under the Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C.).
What is federal criminal court and how is it different in VA?
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines than state charges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles federal defense — (888) 437-7747.
How do federal sentencing guidelines work in King William County, Virginia?
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines — a points-based calculation using offense level and criminal history category. While advisory since Booker (2005), guidelines strongly influence sentencing. Mandatory minimum statutes override downward departures in many drug, firearm, and child exploitation offenses. Acceptance of responsibility, substantial assistance (§ 5K1.1), and safety-valve eligibility materially reduce exposure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — (888) 437-7747.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence charges?
Defense strategies for use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence charges in Virginia?
If facing use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under federal law require prompt action.
Related Legal Services
Learn more about our practice areas: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia (state hub). Explore related services in King William County: Drug Distribution Lawyer King William County and Computer Crime Lawyer King William County. Also serving nearby areas: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Caroline County.
Last verified: May 2026