A Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE) charge under 21 U.S.C. § 848, also known as the “drug kingpin” statute, targets leaders of large-scale drug operations. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Virginia Beach, Virginia. This federal charge carries a mandatory minimum of 20 years to life in federal prison with no parole.
Continuing Criminal Enterprise Lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia
The Continuing Criminal Enterprise statute, codified at 21 U.S.C. § 848, makes it a federal crime to organize, supervise, or manage a continuing series of felony drug violations involving five or more persons from whom you derive substantial income or resources. To secure a conviction, the government must prove: (1) you committed a continuing series of federal drug felonies; (2) you acted as an organizer, supervisor, or manager of five or more individuals; and (3) you obtained substantial income or resources from the enterprise. This charge is often referred to as the “drug kingpin” law and carries severe penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 21 U.S.C. § 848
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 CCE defense in Virginia Beach.
For the full text of the federal CCE statute, see 21 U.S.C. § 848 (Cornell LII — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines applicable to CCE cases, see U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (ussc.gov — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), prosecutors routinely seek indictments under 21 U.S.C. § 848 for large-scale drug trafficking organizations operating in the Hampton Roads area. We have observed that federal agents from the DEA and FBI often build these cases through long-term investigations involving wiretaps, confidential informants, and financial analysis.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents, financial records, and electronic devices.
- Retain a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Prepare for your initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge.
- Review all discovery materials with your attorney to identify weaknesses in the government’s case.
- Consider whether a pretrial motion to dismiss or suppress evidence is appropriate.
In Virginia Beach, a Continuing Criminal Enterprise charge under 21 U.S.C. § 848 carries a mandatory minimum of 20 years to life in federal prison, with no parole available in the federal system.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Continuing Criminal Enterprise (21 U.S.C. § 848) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 20 years to life; up to life without parole for repeat offenders | Up to $10 million (or twice the gross profits from the enterprise) | N/A (federal offense) | Asset forfeiture; no parole; supervised release up to 5 years; loss of federal benefits |
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 handled numerous federal criminal cases, including complex drug conspiracy and CCE matters, providing clients with strategic defense from investigation through trial and appeal.
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 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. While specific locality data for Virginia Beach federal CCE cases is limited, the firm has extensive criminal defense experience in federal courts, including the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 100 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), with access via I-64 and I-264. We serve as a Continuing Criminal Enterprise lawyer near Virginia Beach and the surrounding communities.
Serving the communities of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
(888) 437-7747 | By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions About Continuing Criminal Enterprise Charges in Virginia Beach
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 continuing criminal enterprise charges?
Defense strategies for continuing criminal enterprise in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 21 U.S.C. § 848 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing continuing criminal enterprise charges in Virginia?
If facing continuing criminal enterprise 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 are the penalties for continuing criminal enterprise in Virginia?
Penalties for continuing criminal enterprise in Virginia depend on the specific charges, prior record, and circumstances. Under 21 U.S.C. § 848, consequences may include a mandatory minimum of 20 years to life in federal prison, fines, and asset forfeiture. Consult a Virginia federal criminal attorney for case-specific guidance.
Learn more about federal criminal defense in Virginia: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia.
Explore related services: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesapeake and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesterfield County.
See also: Tort Lawyer Virginia Beach and Driving While Suspended Lawyer Virginia Beach.
Last verified: April 2026
Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.