Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Colonial Heights, Virginia
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), using a firearm during a crime of violence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in federal prison, consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Colonial Heights, VA. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Understanding 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) — Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) makes it a separate crime to use, carry, or possess a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. A “crime of violence” includes offenses such as robbery, kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon, and certain drug trafficking crimes. The law imposes mandatory minimum sentences that must run consecutively to any sentence for the underlying offense. For a first conviction, the mandatory minimum is 5 years; if the firearm is brandished, it increases to 7 years; if discharged, to 10 years. These penalties apply regardless of whether the firearm was actually used to cause harm. The statute is prosecuted in federal court, and there is no parole in the federal system. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defending these serious charges.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII)
Official Legal References
Insider Procedural Edge for Federal Firearms Charges
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek the maximum mandatory minimums under § 924(c). We have observed that early intervention — before indictment — can sometimes lead to charge negotiation or dismissal of the firearm enhancement.
Federal agents often build cases through informants and surveillance. Challenging the legality of the search or seizure that uncovered the firearm is a critical first step.
Understanding the “in furtherance” element is key: mere possession of a firearm near a crime scene may not satisfy the statute if the firearm was not used to facilitate the offense.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without a lawyer present.
- Preserve all evidence, including phone records and surveillance footage.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Attend all court hearings; failure to appear can result in additional charges.
- Review the discovery materials with your attorney to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Consider whether a motion to suppress evidence is viable based on illegal search or seizure.
In Colonial Heights, Virginia, a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) for use of a firearm in a crime of violence carries severe mandatory minimum sentences that must be served consecutively to any other sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use/Carry Firearm During Crime of Violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i)) | Federal Felony | 5 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Brandishing Firearm During Crime of Violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii)) | Federal Felony | 7 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Discharging Firearm During Crime of Violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(iii)) | Federal Felony | 10 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your 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 has extensive criminal defense experience handling complex federal charges, including use of a firearm in crime of violence cases under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). Mr. Sris personally oversees all federal criminal matters, ensuring that every client receives dedicated, strategic representation. The firm’s Advocacy Without Borders philosophy means we are available 24/7 to protect your rights.
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 Colonial Heights
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 total documented case results across all practice areas in Colonial Heights, with a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 20 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), with access via I-95 and I-295.
If you need a Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer near Colonial Heights, we are here to help.
Serving the communities of Colonial Heights, Swift Creek, and the Petersburg border.
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 Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence 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 at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
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 Colonial Heights, 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 use of a firearm in crime of violence charges?
Defense strategies for use of a firearm in crime of violence 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 et seq. to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing use of a firearm in crime of violence charges in Virginia?
If facing use of a firearm in crime of violence 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.
Related Practice Areas
Last verified: May 2026