Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer King William County: Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), using or carrying a firearm during 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 King William County, VA, and can help you handle these serious federal charges.
Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in King William County, Virginia
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. § 924(c)(3) as a felony that has as an element the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against the person or property of another, or that by its nature involves a substantial risk that physical force may be used. This statute carries severe mandatory minimum sentences, including 5 years for the first offense, 7 years if the firearm is brandished, and 10 years if discharged. These sentences must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed for the underlying crime. 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 site)
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 maximum penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). We have observed that the government often relies on witness testimony and forensic evidence to prove the firearm nexus.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately upon arrest or investigation.
- Do not make any statements to law enforcement without counsel present.
- Preserve all evidence, including any communications or records related to the alleged incident.
- Attend all court hearings and comply with all pretrial conditions.
- Work with your attorney to review discovery and file pretrial motions.
- Prepare for trial or negotiate a plea agreement based on the strength of the evidence.
In King William 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 or carry firearm during crime of violence | Federal Felony | 5 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Loss of firearm rights, supervised release |
| Brandish firearm during crime of violence | Federal Felony | 7 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Loss of firearm rights, supervised release |
| Discharge firearm during crime of violence | Federal Felony | 10 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Loss of firearm rights, supervised release |
Results may vary.
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%. Our firm has extensive experience defending federal firearm charges, including those under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c).
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 King William County. While specific case results for federal firearm charges in this locality 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 in Richmond is approximately 30 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), with access via I-64 and Route 360. We serve as a 924c charge defense lawyer King William County and a gun enhancement defense lawyer King William County. Serving the communities of King William, West Point, and Aylett. 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
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. Cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
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 King William 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 during and in relation to a crime of violence charges?
Defense strategies for use of a firearm during and in relation to a 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 during and in relation to a crime of violence charges in Virginia?
If facing use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence 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 federal law require prompt action.
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Last verified: May 2026