Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia
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 lengthy prison sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and provides representation for federal firearms charges. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Federal Statute for Possession or Use of a Machine Gun
Under federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) makes it unlawful for any person to transfer or possess a machine gun, except for certain government-authorized transfers. Additionally, 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) imposes mandatory minimum sentences for using or carrying a firearm, including a machine gun, during a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime. 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. Possession or use of a machine gun lawyer Virginia Beach is essential for anyone facing these charges.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 922
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience. Advocacy Without Borders — the firm has handled numerous federal criminal cases across Virginia.
Official Legal References
Insider Knowledge on Federal Machine Gun Charges in Virginia Beach
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek mandatory minimum sentences for machine gun offenses under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c).
We have observed that federal agents, including the ATF and FBI, often use detailed surveillance and informant testimony in these cases.
Early intervention by a possession or use of a machine gun lawyer Virginia Beach can be critical to challenging the evidence before indictment.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest or investigation.
- Preserve all documents, records, and digital evidence related to the case.
- Attend all court hearings and comply with all court orders.
- Work with your lawyer to evaluate potential defenses, including challenging the legality of the search or seizure.
- Consider negotiating with prosecutors for a favorable plea agreement if appropriate.
In Virginia Beach, possession or use of a machine gun carries severe federal penalties including mandatory minimum prison sentences, substantial fines, and supervised release.
| 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 | N/A (federal) | Forfeiture of firearm; supervised release up to 3 years |
| Use of a Machine Gun During a Crime of Violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 30 years (if machine gun used) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Consecutive sentence; no parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Federal Firearms 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%. The firm — Advocacy Without Borders — has extensive criminal defense experience, including federal firearms charges. Mr. Sris personally handles complex federal criminal matters and works with a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring decades of experience.
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
Case Results in Federal Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience across Virginia, including federal firearms cases. While specific case results for possession or use of a machine gun charges in Virginia Beach are not 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 100 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), with access via I-64 and I-264.
We serve clients seeking a possession or use of a machine gun lawyer near Virginia Beach.
Serving the communities of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Possession or Use of a Machine Gun 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. Cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole.
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 Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Virginia Beach. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach 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.
Related Legal Resources
Last verified: May 2026
By appointment only.