Federal Statute for Possession of Firearms in Drug Trafficking Crime
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), it is a federal crime to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. This statute applies to any person who, during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, uses, carries, or possesses a firearm. The law carries severe penalties, including a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for simple possession, 7 years if the firearm is brandished, and 10 years if discharged. These sentences must run consecutively to any sentence imposed for the underlying drug trafficking offense. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia prosecutes these cases in the Norfolk Division, which serves Chesapeake.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)
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 in Chesapeake.
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Local Procedural Insight for Chesapeake Federal Cases
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek mandatory minimum sentences for possession of firearms in drug trafficking crimes. We have observed that the Norfolk Division, which handles cases from Chesapeake, applies the federal sentencing guidelines strictly, with limited room for downward departures.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence and do not destroy any records.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Understand the charges and potential mandatory minimum sentences.
- Prepare for federal court proceedings with your attorney.
- Explore all possible defense strategies, including challenging the evidence.
In Chesapeake, possession of firearms in drug trafficking crime carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years to life in federal prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years; up to life if death results | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms prohibition | No parole; sentence runs consecutive to drug trafficking sentence |
| Brandishing firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime | Federal felony | Mandatory minimum 7 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms prohibition | No parole; sentence runs consecutive |
| Discharging firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime | Federal felony | Mandatory minimum 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms prohibition | No parole; sentence runs consecutive |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Federal Criminal Defense in Chesapeake?
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 — Advocacy Without Borders — provides dedicated federal criminal defense representation at 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
Case Results in Federal Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Chesapeake. While specific locality case results for federal criminal matters are limited, the firm has 4,739+ documented firm-wide 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 as a possession of firearms in drug trafficking crime lawyer near Chesapeake.
Serving the communities of Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
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: (804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Possession of Firearms in Drug Trafficking Crime in Chesapeake
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 firearms in drug trafficking crime charges?
Defense strategies for possession of firearms in drug trafficking crime 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. § 924(c) to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing possession of firearms in drug trafficking crime charges in Virginia?
If facing possession of firearms in drug trafficking crime 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.
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Last verified: April 2026 | Page generated: 2026-04-29