Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer Powhatan County, Virginia
Facing a federal charge for use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) in Powhatan County carries mandatory minimum sentences of 5 years to life, consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience and can help you handle the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
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 is prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division) and carries severe mandatory minimum penalties. The statute applies to any person who, during and in relation to any crime of violence or drug trafficking crime for which the person may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, uses or carries a firearm, or who, in furtherance of any such crime, possesses a firearm. A conviction under § 924(c) results in a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for a first offense, 7 years if the firearm is brandished, and 10 years if discharged. If the firearm is a machinegun or destructive device, the mandatory minimum is 30 years. These sentences must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed for the underlying crime of violence or drug trafficking crime.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (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 to every federal criminal case.
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII). For Virginia state firearms laws, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Virginia General Assembly — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek the maximum mandatory minimums under § 924(c). The court is known for its “rocket docket” — cases move quickly from indictment to trial.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer Powhatan County immediately.
- Preserve all evidence, including communications and documents.
- Attend all court hearings in the Richmond Division of the Eastern District of Virginia.
- Work with your attorney to explore potential defense strategies, such as challenging the predicate offense or the nexus to the firearm.
- Prepare for a potential trial or plea negotiation under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
In Powhatan County, use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries mandatory minimum sentences of 5 years to life, consecutive to any other sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use/Carry/Possess Firearm During Crime of Violence (First Offense) | Federal Felony | 5 years mandatory minimum | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Consecutive sentence; no parole; supervised release |
| Brandishing Firearm During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | 7 years mandatory minimum | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Consecutive sentence; no parole; supervised release |
| Discharging Firearm During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | 10 years mandatory minimum | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Consecutive sentence; no parole; supervised release |
| Machinegun/Destructive Device During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | 30 years mandatory minimum | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Consecutive sentence; no parole; supervised release |
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 extensive experience defending federal firearm charges, including those under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c).
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — has handled numerous federal criminal cases in the Eastern District of Virginia, providing clients with strategic defense and personalized attention.
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 federal cases across Virginia. While specific case results for Powhatan County federal matters are limited, the firm has documented 2 total case results across all practice areas in Powhatan County, with favorable outcomes in all reported instances. Firm-wide, SRIS has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%.
Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 25 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), with access via I-64 and Route 288.
Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer near Powhatan County.
Serving the communities of Powhatan, Moseley, Flat Rock, Huguenot Springs.
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
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 under the Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C.).
Federal charges carry harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical.
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.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Powhatan County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Powhatan County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Powhatan County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Powhatan County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Powhatan County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
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Last verified: May 2026