Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Henrico County, Virginia
A federal charge for use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Henrico County, including 17 dismissals or not guilty verdicts.
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 or drug trafficking crime. This charge carries severe penalties, including a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for the first offense, which must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed. If the firearm is brandished, the minimum increases to 7 years; if discharged, to 10 years. A second or subsequent conviction under this statute carries a mandatory minimum of 25 years to life.
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 federal charges in Henrico County.
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 federal statute governing use of a firearm in a crime of violence, see 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII — official site). For information on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, visit U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (official site).
Insider Procedural Edge: Federal Firearm Charges in Henrico County
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek mandatory minimum sentences under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). The court is known for its “rocket docket” — cases move quickly from indictment to trial. We have observed that early intervention is critical to preserving defense options.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence, including communications and documents.
- Contact a 924c charge defense lawyer Henrico County immediately.
- Understand the mandatory minimums and consecutive sentencing rules.
- Prepare for a fast-paced federal case timeline under the Speedy Trial Act.
In Henrico County, a federal charge for use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries mandatory minimum sentences that must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use/Carry/Possess Firearm During 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 Firearm During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 7 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Discharging Firearm During Crime of Violence | 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 to life (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 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%. The firm has 21 documented results in Henrico County alone: 17 dismissed or not guilty, 4 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Our team understands the details of federal firearm charges and the unique procedures of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Your 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 Henrico County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Henrico County: 17 dismissed or not guilty, 4 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate of 100% in all reported instances. Results may vary. These results include dismissals and nolle prosequi for charges such as assault and battery, strangulation, and prostitution-related offenses. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 10 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), with access via I-64, I-95, and I-295. We serve as a gun enhancement defense lawyer Henrico County for clients facing federal firearm charges. Serving the communities of Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville (partial). 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 Federal Firearm Charges in Henrico County
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. Federal charges carry mandatory minimums and consecutive sentences under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c).
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 Henrico 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 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia
By appointment only.