Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Hanover County, Virginia
A charge under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) for use of a firearm in 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 Hanover County, VA, and can help you handle the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Understanding 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) — Use of a Firearm in a Crime of Violence
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), it is a federal crime to use, carry, or possess a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. A “crime of violence” is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 16 as an offense that has as an element the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against another person. This statute imposes severe mandatory minimum sentences: 5 years for possession, 7 years for brandishing, and 10 years for discharging a firearm. If the firearm is a machinegun or equipped with a silencer, the mandatory minimum increases to 30 years. These sentences must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed for the underlying crime of violence.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII)
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 federal firearm charges in Hanover County.
Official Legal References
Insider Procedural Edge: Federal Firearm Charges in the Eastern District of Virginia
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek the maximum mandatory minimum sentences under § 924(c). We have observed that the government often charges the firearm count separately to ensure a consecutive sentence.
Federal conviction rates in the EDVA exceed 90%, making early and aggressive defense critical. The court strictly enforces the Speedy Trial Act, which requires trial within 70 days of indictment.
- Contact a Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer in Hanover County immediately upon arrest or target letter.
- Do not consent to searches or interviews without counsel present.
- Preserve all evidence, including digital communications and documents.
- Your attorney will file a motion to suppress if the firearm was seized unlawfully.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney for a possible plea or cooperation agreement.
- Prepare for trial or sentencing mitigation if no resolution is reached.
In Hanover County, a federal charge for use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries severe mandatory minimum penalties that are consecutive to any underlying offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | 5 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Brandishing a Firearm in Furtherance of Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | 7 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Discharging a Firearm in Furtherance of Crime of Violence | 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 Federal Firearm 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 defending clients in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, including the Richmond Division which serves Hanover County.
Mr. Sris personally handles complex federal criminal cases, including 924(c) charges. The firm’s “Advocacy Without Borders” approach ensures clients receive dedicated representation regardless of the complexity of their case.
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 Hanover County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 19 documented results in Hanover County: 9 dismissed or not guilty, 10 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary. These results include traffic and criminal matters, demonstrating the firm’s ability to achieve favorable outcomes in Hanover County courts.
Firm-wide, SRIS, P.C. 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 Hanover County General District Court (7507 Library Drive, Suite 201, Hanover, VA 23069), with access via I-95 and I-295.
Searching for a “Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer near Hanover County”? We serve clients throughout the region.
Serving the communities of Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Richmond Location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (804) 201-9009. 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.
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 Hanover 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. § 924(c) 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.
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Last verified: May 2026. This page was updated on 2026-05-02.
Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.
By appointment only.