Possession or use of a machine gun is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) and § 924(c), carrying severe penalties including up to 10 years imprisonment for possession and a mandatory minimum of 30 years if used in a crime of violence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Powhatan County, Virginia, and provides 24/7 consultation by appointment.
Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Lawyer in Powhatan County, Virginia
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) generally prohibits the possession or transfer of a machine gun manufactured after May 19, 1986, unless specifically 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. Violations carry penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 924(a)(2) of up to 10 years in federal prison. Additionally, using or carrying a machine gun during a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years. 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)
For the full text of the federal machine gun statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII — official U.S. Code). For the definition of a machine gun, see 26 U.S.C. § 5845(b) (Cornell LII — official U.S. Code).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), prosecutors routinely seek enhanced penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) when a machine gun is linked to drug trafficking or violent crime. We have observed that federal agents from the ATF and FBI often rely on informants and surveillance to build these cases. Challenging the legality of the search or seizure is a critical first step.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence, including receipts, records, and communications.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Review the indictment and discovery materials with your attorney.
- File pretrial motions to suppress evidence if applicable.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office or prepare for trial.
In Powhatan County, possession or use of a machine gun carries federal penalties including up to 10 years imprisonment for possession under 18 U.S.C. § 924(a)(2) and a mandatory minimum of 30 years for use during a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c).
| 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 firearms license revoked | Loss of firearm rights; supervised release up to 3 years |
| Use of a Machine Gun During Crime of Violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 30 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms license revoked | No parole; consecutive sentence; supervised release up to 5 years |
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 extensive criminal defense experience handling federal charges, including possession or use of a machine gun cases. “Advocacy Without Borders” reflects the firm’s commitment to providing dedicated representation to clients facing serious federal penalties.
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 extensive criminal defense experience in Powhatan County. While no verifiable case result is available for this specific jurisdiction and topic, 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 in Richmond is approximately 25 miles from Powhatan County General District Court (3834 Old Buckingham Rd, Suite C, Powhatan, VA 23139), with access via Route 522 and Route 60. We serve as a possession or use of a machine gun lawyer near Powhatan County. Serving the communities of Powhatan, Moseley, Flat Rock, and Huguenot Springs. 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
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Powhatan County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Powhatan 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 Powhatan County General District Court (3834 Old Buckingham Rd, Suite C, Powhatan, VA 23139).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Powhatan 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 Powhatan County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Powhatan County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Powhatan County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Powhatan County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Powhatan 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 Powhatan County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Powhatan County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Powhatan County?
Powhatan County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Powhatan 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 under Virginia law require prompt action.
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Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia
Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.