Possession or use of a machine gun is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o), carrying severe penalties including up to 10 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Poquoson, Virginia, and provides representation for those facing these charges. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Lawyer in Poquoson, Virginia
Under federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) makes it unlawful for any person to transfer or possess a machine gun, except for certain limited exceptions. A machine gun is defined under 26 U.S.C. § 5845(b) as any weapon that shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot, automatically more than one shot without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. This includes parts designed to convert a weapon into a machine gun. Violations are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA), which has jurisdiction over Poquoson. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience to federal criminal defense.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII)
For the full text of the federal machine gun statute, visit 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII — official site). For the definition of a machine gun, see 26 U.S.C. § 5845(b) (Cornell LII — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue machine gun possession charges aggressively, given the federal government’s focus on firearm-related offenses. The EDVA is known for its “rocket docket,” where cases move quickly from indictment to trial. We have observed that early intervention by an experienced federal criminal defense attorney can be critical in challenging the government’s evidence and negotiating favorable outcomes.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest or when you learn of an investigation.
- Preserve all evidence and documents related to the case.
- Attend all court hearings as required.
- Work with your attorney to review discovery and build a defense strategy.
- Consider all options, including pretrial motions, plea negotiations, and trial.
In Poquoson, Virginia, possession or use of a machine gun under federal law carries a penalty of up to 10 years in federal prison, fines, and supervised release.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of a Machine Gun (18 U.S.C. § 922(o)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | Supervised release up to 3 years; no parole in federal system |
| Use of a Machine Gun During a Crime of Violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 30 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | Supervised release up to 5 years; no parole |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 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%. The firm has extensive experience in federal criminal defense, including machine gun possession cases, and provides representation in 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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Poquoson, with documented case results across all practice areas. While specific case results for federal machine gun possession in Poquoson are limited, the firm has a strong track record of favorable outcomes in federal criminal matters. Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 60 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Newport News Division), with access via I-64 and Route 17. We serve as a federal criminal lawyer near Poquoson. Serving the communities of Poquoson and the York County border. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
(804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Charges in Poquoson
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 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against possession or use of a machine gun charges?
Defense strategies for possession or use of a machine gun 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 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing possession or use of a machine gun charges in Virginia?
If facing possession or use of a machine gun charges in Virginia, contact a federal 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.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Poquoson, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Poquoson carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Poquoson General District Court (500 City Hall Avenue, Poquoson, VA 23662).
How does bail work in Poquoson, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Poquoson. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Poquoson General District Court.
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Last verified: May 2026. This page was updated to reflect current federal statutes and local court information.