Facing a felon in possession charge in Colonial Heights, Virginia, is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), carrying up to 10 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in federal court. A Felon in Possession lawyer in Colonial Heights can help you handle the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Felon in Possession Lawyer in Colonial Heights, Virginia
Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), it is unlawful for any person who has been convicted of a felony to possess, receive, or transport any firearm or ammunition that has been shipped or transported in interstate commerce. This federal statute applies to individuals with prior felony convictions, including those from state courts. The law prohibits possession of firearms, ammunition, and certain other weapons. A conviction under this statute carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, with mandatory minimum sentences for certain aggravating factors. The statute is enforced by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) (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.
For official statutory text, consult the 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) (Cornell LII — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines, review the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSC.gov — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue felon in possession charges aggressively, often seeking enhanced penalties under the Armed Career Criminal Act (18 U.S.C. § 924(e)). We have observed that the government frequently relies on constructive possession theories, arguing that a defendant had knowledge and control over a firearm even if not physically holding it.
- Contact a Felon in Possession lawyer in Colonial Heights immediately upon arrest or investigation.
- Do not speak to law enforcement or ATF agents without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence, including receipts, phone records, and witness contact information.
- Review the indictment for any procedural errors or constitutional violations.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may include challenging the legality of the search or the validity of the prior conviction.
- Prepare for all court appearances, including initial appearance, detention hearing, and trial.
In Colonial Heights, a felon in possession charge under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, with potential mandatory minimums under the Armed Career Criminal Act.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of Firearm (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years (mandatory minimum 15 years under ACCA if 3+ prior violent felonies) | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms prohibition (lifetime) | Loss of voting rights, federal employment restrictions, supervised release up to 3 years |
| Possession of Firearm in Drug Trafficking Crime (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms prohibition (lifetime) | Loss of federal benefits, supervised release 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 handled numerous federal criminal cases, including felon in possession charges, and has a deep understanding of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Mr. Sris, former prosecutor, leads the federal criminal defense practice, ensuring clients receive strategic and aggressive representation.
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 Colonial Heights, with documented results across all practice areas. While specific case results for felon in possession charges in Colonial Heights are not available, the firm has achieved favorable outcomes in numerous federal criminal cases. Results may vary.
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. A felon with firearm defense lawyer Colonial Heights can meet clients at our Richmond location or by appointment. Serving the communities of Colonial Heights, Swift Creek, and 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
(804) 201-9009 | (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Felon in Possession Charges in Colonial Heights
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. A prohibited person gun charge lawyer Colonial Heights can help handle the federal system.
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 (City), 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 felon in possession charges?
Defense strategies for felon in possession 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(g) to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing felon in possession of a firearm charges in Virginia?
If facing felon in possession of a firearm charges in Virginia, contact a 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.
For more information, visit our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia hub page. Explore related pages: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesapeake, Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesterfield County, Landlord Tenant Lawyer Colonial Heights, and Consumer Protection Lawyer Colonial Heights.
Last verified: May 2026 | Page generated: 2026-05-02