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 Spotsylvania County and across Virginia. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Lawyer in Spotsylvania County, Virginia
Understanding Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Charges Under Federal Law
Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o), it is unlawful for any person to transfer or possess a machine gun, except for certain limited exceptions. A machine gun is defined 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 charge is a federal felony prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA), which has jurisdiction over Spotsylvania County. The penalties include up to 10 years in federal prison, fines, and supervised release. 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 allegations.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII)
Official Legal References
For the full text of the federal statute governing machine gun possession, see 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines, refer to U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSG) (ussc.gov — official site).
Insider Knowledge: Federal Prosecution in the Eastern District of Virginia
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue machine gun charges aggressively due to the serious nature of the offense. We have observed that the government often relies on evidence from ATF investigations and forensic testing to prove the weapon’s automatic capability.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence, including any documentation related to the weapon.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Attend all court hearings and comply with pretrial conditions.
- Work with your attorney to challenge the legality of the search or seizure.
- Consider negotiating with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable resolution.
In Spotsylvania County, possession or use of a machine gun under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, fines, and supervised release.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession or Use of a Machine Gun | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | Supervised release, loss of firearm rights, potential deportation for non-citizens |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal 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 federal criminal cases, including possession or use of a machine gun charges, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. We provide personalized, strategic defense for clients in Spotsylvania County.
Your Legal 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 Spotsylvania County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 67 documented results in Spotsylvania County: 34 dismissed or not guilty, 33 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate in all reported instances. Results may vary. These outcomes include cases in the Spotsylvania County General District Court and Spotsylvania County Circuit Court.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 50 miles from the Spotsylvania County courts (9107 Judicial Center Lane), with access via I-95, Route 1, Route 3, and Route 208. We serve the communities of Spotsylvania, Chancellor, and Massaponax. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Spotsylvania County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Spotsylvania 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 Spotsylvania County General District Court (9107 Judicial Center Lane, Spotsylvania, VA 22553).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Spotsylvania 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 Spotsylvania County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Spotsylvania County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Spotsylvania County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Spotsylvania County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Spotsylvania 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 Spotsylvania County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Spotsylvania County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Spotsylvania County?
Spotsylvania County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Spotsylvania 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 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) 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 federal law require prompt action.
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Last verified: May 2026. This page was generated on 2026-05-02.