Understanding Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Charges
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) makes it unlawful for any person to transfer or possess a machine gun, except for certain authorized government entities. A machine gun is defined 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 and conversion kits. Violations are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, which has jurisdiction over Prince George County. The penalties are severe, including up to 10 years in federal prison, fines, and supervised release. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defend clients facing these serious charges.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII)
Official Legal References
18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII — official U.S. Code)
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (justice.gov)
Insider Knowledge: Federal Court in Prince George County
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue machine gun possession charges aggressively. We have observed that the court applies the Federal Sentencing Guidelines strictly, with limited room for downward departures. Early intervention is critical to building a strong defense.
- Contact a federal criminal defense attorney immediately upon arrest or investigation.
- Do not speak to law enforcement or prosecutors without your lawyer present.
- Preserve all evidence, including documents, communications, and any items related to the charge.
- Your attorney will review the indictment for procedural errors or constitutional violations.
- File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if applicable.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a potential plea or reduction of charges.
Penalties for Possession or Use of a Machine Gun
In Prince George County, possession or use of a machine gun under federal law carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, 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 | N/A (federal) | Supervised release, loss of firearm rights, criminal record |
| Use of a Machine Gun During a Crime of Violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 30 years (if machine gun used) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Consecutive sentence, no parole, supervised release |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
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 firm has extensive criminal defense experience and is committed to providing aggressive representation for clients facing federal charges in Prince George County.
Your Legal Team
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 Prince George County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Prince George County. While specific case results for federal machine gun charges are not available, the firm has documented results in Prince George County General District Court for related criminal matters. Results may vary.
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 25 miles from Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive, Prince George, VA 23875), with access via I-295 and Route 10.
Searching for a machine gun possession lawyer Prince George County or automatic weapon charge defense lawyer Prince George County? We serve the communities of Prince George, Hopewell area, and surrounding regions.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (804) 201-9009 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 under the Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C.).
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 federal law require prompt action.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince George County 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 Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive, Prince George, VA 23875).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince George County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Prince George County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Prince George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Prince George County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Prince George County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Prince George County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine. Early legal representation is critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Prince George County?
Prince George County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince George County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive, Prince George, VA 23875) is the GDC location.
Related Practice Areas
Last verified: May 2026