Felon in Possession Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia
Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), it is a federal crime for any person convicted of a felony to possess a firearm or ammunition. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Chesapeake, Virginia, and can help you handle these serious charges. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Understanding Felon in Possession Charges Under Federal Law
18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) makes it unlawful for any person who has been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year to ship, transport, possess, or receive any firearm or ammunition that has been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce. This is a strict liability offense — the government does not need to prove you intended to break the law, only that you knowingly possessed the firearm and had a prior qualifying conviction. The statute applies to all felonies under federal or state law, and the prohibition is lifelong unless your civil rights have been restored. 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. § 922(g)(1) (Cornell LII — official site)
Official Legal References
For the full text of the statute, visit: 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) (Cornell LII — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines, see: U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSC — official site).
Insider Perspective on Federal Felon in Possession Cases in Chesapeake
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue felon in possession charges aggressively. The government often relies on constructive possession theories, meaning they may argue you had knowledge of and control over the firearm even if it was not on your person. We have observed that early intervention is critical — the indictment stage is where procedural challenges can be most effective.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence and documentation immediately.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer within 24 hours of arrest or notification.
- Review the indictment for procedural errors and jurisdictional issues.
- Explore all available defenses, including challenging the legality of the search or seizure.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for potential plea agreements or charge reductions.
In Chesapeake, Virginia, a felon in possession charge under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. Enhanced penalties apply for certain prior convictions.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years (mandatory minimum 2 years if prior violent felony) | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm disability (lifetime) | Loss of voting rights in some states; ineligibility for federal benefits; deportation for non-citizens |
| Felon in Possession with Prior Violent Felony (Armed Career Criminal Act — 18 U.S.C. § 924(e)) | Federal Felony (Enhanced) | Mandatory minimum 15 years to life | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm disability (lifetime) | Same as above, plus no parole in federal system |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal 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%. Mr. Sris personally handles complex federal criminal defense matters, including felon in possession charges. The firm’s deep familiarity with federal court procedures and sentencing guidelines provides clients with a strategic advantage.
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 Federal Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Chesapeake, Virginia. While no locality-specific case result is available for this jurisdiction, the firm has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 90 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), with access via I-64 and I-464. We serve as a Felon in Possession lawyer near Chesapeake and the surrounding communities. Serving the communities of Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, Greenbrier. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Richmond Location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (804) 201-9009 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Felon in Possession 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 the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia under the Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C.) and Federal Sentencing Guidelines (USSG).
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 Chesapeake, 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 felon in possession charges?
Defense strategies for felon in possession in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under the Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C.) to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing felon in possession of a firearm charges in Virginia?
If facing felon in possession of a firearm 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 Virginia law require prompt action.
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Last verified: May 2026