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, consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Goochland County and across Virginia. You need a Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer Goochland County who understands federal court.
Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Goochland County, 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 during and 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. The penalties are severe: a first conviction carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison, consecutive to any sentence for the underlying crime. If the firearm is brandished, the minimum increases to 7 years; if discharged, 10 years. A second or subsequent conviction under § 924(c) carries a mandatory minimum of 25 years. These sentences cannot run concurrently with any other sentence — they must be served consecutively. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
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
For the full text of the statute, visit the official government source: 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (U.S. Department of Justice — official site).
For federal sentencing guidelines related to firearms offenses, see: U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (U.S. Sentencing Commission — official site).
Insider Perspective on Federal Firearm Charges in Goochland County
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 the government often files these charges in cases involving drug trafficking or violent offenses to use plea negotiations. The key is to act before an indictment is returned.
- Do not speak to federal agents without your attorney present.
- Contact a 924c charge defense lawyer Goochland County immediately if you are under investigation.
- Preserve all evidence, including phone records and electronic devices.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone other than your lawyer.
- Attend all court appearances as required.
- Work with your attorney to explore all defense strategies, including challenging the predicate offense.
In Goochland County, a federal charge under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) for use of a firearm in a crime of violence carries mandatory minimum sentences that are consecutive to any other sentence imposed.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use of a Firearm in a Crime of Violence (First Offense) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Brandishing a Firearm | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 7 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Discharging a Firearm | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 10 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Second or Subsequent § 924(c) Conviction | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 25 years (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 Defense?
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” 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%. Mr. Sris has a background in accounting and information systems, which he applies to complex financial and technology-related cases. The firm handles federal criminal defense matters throughout Virginia, including the Eastern and Western Districts.
Your Federal 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
Documented Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Goochland County. While specific federal case results for this jurisdiction are not available, 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 and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 30 miles from the Goochland County courts, with access via I-64 and Route 250. We serve as a Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer near Goochland County. 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
Phone: (804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Firearm 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 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.
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Last verified: May 2026