Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Lawyer in York County, Virginia
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 York County, Virginia, and provides dedicated representation for federal firearms charges.
Understanding Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Charges
Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o), it is unlawful for any person to transfer or possess a machine gun, except as authorized by the Attorney General. 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 firearm into a machine gun. Violations are prosecuted in federal court, typically by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA).
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII)
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to every case.
Official Legal References
Insider Knowledge: Federal Firearms Cases in EDVA
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue machine gun possession charges aggressively, often seeking enhanced penalties under the Armed Career Criminal Act. We have observed that early intervention and filing pretrial motions challenging the legality of the search or seizure can significantly impact the outcome.
- Contact a federal criminal defense attorney immediately upon arrest or investigation.
- Do not consent to any search of your home, vehicle, or electronic devices.
- Preserve all evidence and do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer.
- Your attorney will review the indictment for procedural errors and constitutional violations.
- File pretrial motions to suppress evidence if the search was unlawful.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable resolution.
Penalties for Possession or Use of a Machine Gun
In York County, possession or use of a machine gun under federal law carries severe penalties, including up to 10 years in federal prison, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| 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 | Loss of gun rights, supervised release, no parole |
| 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 | No parole, mandatory consecutive sentence |
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. 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, Advocacy Without Borders, is committed to providing aggressive and knowledgeable representation for clients facing serious federal charges.
Your Federal Criminal Defense 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 York County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 documented results in York County: 0 dismissed or not guilty, 13 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate of 100% in all reported instances. Results may vary. These outcomes reflect our commitment to achieving favorable results for our clients.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 60 miles from York County General District Court (300 Ballard Street, Yorktown, VA 23690), with access via I-64 and Route 17. We serve clients throughout York County, including the communities of Yorktown, Grafton, Tabb, and Seaford. 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
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in York County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in York 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 York County General District Court (300 Ballard Street, Yorktown, VA 23690).
Can criminal charges be expunged in York 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 York County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in York County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in York County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to York County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in York 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 York County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in York County?
York County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. York 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.
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.
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 federal statutes 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 require prompt action.
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Last updated: 2026-05-02