Possession or use of a machine gun is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) and 26 U.S.C. § 5845, carrying severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — has extensive criminal defense experience in Suffolk, Virginia. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Lawyer in Suffolk, Virginia
Understanding Federal Machine Gun Laws
Federal law strictly regulates machine guns under the National Firearms Act (NFA), 26 U.S.C. § 5845(b), which defines a machine gun 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. Possession or transfer of a machine gun manufactured after May 19, 1986, is generally prohibited under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o). Violations can result in up to 10 years in federal prison under 18 U.S.C. § 924(a)(2). The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA) prosecutes these cases in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, which has jurisdiction over Suffolk. 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 Legal References
Insider Knowledge: Federal Machine Gun Cases in EDVA
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue machine gun charges with aggressive sentencing enhancements. We have observed that federal agents, including the ATF and FBI, often use confidential informants and surveillance to build these cases.
- Do not consent to any searches or questioning without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence, including receipts, registration documents, and communications.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately to protect your rights.
- Review the indictment carefully with your attorney for procedural errors.
- Consider all defense strategies, including challenging the legality of the search or seizure.
- Prepare for potential pretrial detention hearings, as federal judges often deny bail in firearms cases.
In Suffolk, Virginia, possession or use of a machine gun under federal law carries severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and substantial fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of a Machine Gun (Post-1986) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms license revoked | Forfeiture of weapon; supervised release up to 3 years |
| Use of a Machine Gun During a Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 30 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms license revoked | Consecutive sentence; no parole in federal system |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
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’s tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects its commitment to aggressive representation in federal criminal cases, including possession or use of a machine gun charges in Suffolk.
Your Federal Criminal 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
Proven Results in Federal Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Suffolk and across Virginia. While specific case results for federal machine gun charges are not publicly available, 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 Route 58. We serve clients facing possession or use of a machine gun charges in Suffolk, Harbour View, and North Suffolk.
Searching for a machine gun possession lawyer Suffolk? We are available 24/7 for 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
Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Machine Gun Charges in Suffolk
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 under the Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C.) and Federal Sentencing Guidelines (USSG).
Federal charges carry harsher penalties and no parole compared to state charges.
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 criminal 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.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Suffolk, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Suffolk 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 Suffolk General District Court (150 North Main Street, Suite 2G, Suffolk, VA 23434).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Suffolk, 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 Suffolk Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Suffolk, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Suffolk. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Suffolk General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Suffolk (City), 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 Suffolk General District Court and Suffolk Circuit Court has serious long-term consequences.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Suffolk?
Suffolk General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Suffolk 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.
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Last verified: May 2026
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
By appointment only.