Use of a firearm in crime of violence charges under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Goochland County and across Virginia. A Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer Goochland County can help you handle these serious federal charges.
Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Goochland County, Virginia
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), it is a federal crime to use or carry a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, or to possess a firearm in furtherance of such a crime. A “crime of violence” under federal law includes offenses such as robbery, kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon, and certain drug trafficking crimes. The statute imposes a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for the first offense, which must run consecutively to any sentence imposed for the underlying crime of violence. If the firearm is brandished, the mandatory minimum increases to 7 years; if discharged, to 10 years. These penalties are severe and non-negotiable under federal sentencing guidelines. 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 charges in Goochland County and throughout Virginia.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII)
For official statutory text, consult the following government sources:
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek the maximum mandatory minimums under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). We have observed that the government often files these charges in conjunction with predicate offenses like robbery or drug trafficking to use plea negotiations. The federal system has no parole, so any sentence imposed is served in full, minus good time credit.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence, including electronic devices and documents.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Understand the charges and potential penalties, including mandatory minimums.
- Prepare a defense strategy that may include challenging the predicate offense or the firearm nexus.
- Attend all court hearings and comply with all conditions of release.
In Goochland County, use of a firearm in crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries mandatory minimum sentences that are consecutive to any other sentence imposed.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use/Carry Firearm During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | 5 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release of up to 5 years |
| Brandishing Firearm During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | 7 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release of up to 5 years |
| Discharging Firearm During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | 10 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release of 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 experience defending federal criminal cases, including use of a firearm in crime of violence charges, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Mr. Sris personally handles complex federal matters and works with a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring decades of experience.
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 Goochland County. While specific case results for federal use of a firearm in crime of violence charges are not available for this jurisdiction, 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 30 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), with access via I-64 and Route 250. A Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer near Goochland County can provide the representation you need. Serving the communities of Goochland, Crozier, and Oilville. 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
(804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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 Goochland County, 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 Legal Services
Last verified: May 2026 | Page generated: 2026-05-01