Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in James City County, Virginia
A charge under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) for use of a firearm in a crime of violence in James City County 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 handling these complex federal cases. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), it is a federal crime to use, carry, or possess a firearm in relation to 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 the person or property of another, or any felony that, by its nature, involves a substantial risk that physical force may be used. In James City County, these charges are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. 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 serious allegations.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII)
For the full text of the statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines, see U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSC.gov — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek the mandatory minimum sentence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). We have observed that early intervention and a thorough review of the evidence can sometimes lead to charge negotiations.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Preserve all evidence, including electronic devices and documents.
- Attend all court hearings as scheduled.
- Work with your attorney to review discovery and build a defense strategy.
- Consider all options, including plea negotiations and trial.
In James City County, 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.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use of a Firearm in a Crime of Violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years, up to life | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | No parole; consecutive sentence; loss of firearm rights |
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, “Advocacy Without Borders,” is committed to providing aggressive federal criminal defense representation in James City County and throughout Virginia.
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 5 documented results in James City County: 1 dismissed or not guilty, 3 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 50 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Newport News Division), with access via I-64. We serve as a Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer near James City County. Serving the communities of Williamsburg, Norge, Toano, and Lightfoot. 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 | 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 James City 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.
Learn more about our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia services. We also serve Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Caroline County and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesapeake. For related practice areas, see our Non Compete Lawyer James City County and Indecent Exposure Lawyer James City County pages.
Last updated: 2026-05-02