Possession of an Unregistered Firearm Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia
Possession of an unregistered firearm in Chesapeake, Virginia, is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) and the National Firearms Act (NFA), carrying severe penalties including up to 10 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — brings 120+ years of combined legal experience to defend clients facing these charges in the U.S.
Understanding Possession of an Unregistered Firearm Under Federal Law
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) and the National Firearms Act (26 U.S.C. § 5801 et seq.) makes it unlawful for any person to possess a firearm that is not registered to them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. This applies to certain categories of weapons, including machine guns, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, silencers, and destructive devices. The law requires that each NFA firearm be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Failure to register can result in federal prosecution. 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(o) (Cornell LII)
Official Government Resources
Insider Knowledge: Federal Firearm Prosecutions in Chesapeake
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue possession of an unregistered firearm charges aggressively, often in conjunction with other federal offenses. We have observed that the government frequently relies on ATF trace data and witness testimony to establish possession and knowledge.
- Do not consent to any search of your person, vehicle, or home.
- Invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.
- Preserve all documents related to the firearm, including any receipts or registration papers.
- Contact an experienced federal criminal defense attorney before speaking with investigators.
- Attend all court appearances at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
- Work with your attorney to evaluate potential defenses, including lack of knowledge or improper registration procedures.
Penalties for Possession of an Unregistered Firearm
In Chesapeake, Virginia, possession of an unregistered firearm 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 an Unregistered Firearm (18 U.S.C. § 922(o)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | No parole; supervised release; loss of voting rights; immigration consequences |
| Possession of a Machine Gun (26 U.S.C. § 5861(d)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | Mandatory minimum may apply; no parole |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Firearm Defense?
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 has extensive experience handling complex federal criminal cases, including NFA violations, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. We understand the federal sentencing guidelines and the aggressive tactics used by federal prosecutors. Our team, led by Mr. Sris, is committed to providing aggressive, strategic defense for clients facing serious federal charges.
Your 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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience across Virginia, including in Chesapeake. While specific case results for this jurisdiction are limited, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented 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 clients throughout Chesapeake, including the communities of Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. We are a possession of an unregistered firearm lawyer near Chesapeake, providing dedicated federal criminal defense representation.
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 About Possession of an Unregistered Firearm 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.
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 (City), 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 possession of an unregistered firearm charges?
Defense strategies for possession of an unregistered firearm in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing possession of an unregistered firearm charges in Virginia?
If facing possession of an unregistered firearm 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.
Related Practice Areas
Last updated: 2026-05-02