If you face a federal charge under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) for use of a firearm in a crime of violence in Suffolk, Virginia, you face a mandatory minimum of 5 years in federal prison, consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — brings extensive criminal defense experience to the U.S.
Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Suffolk, Virginia
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), it is a federal crime to use or carry a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, or to possess a firearm in furtherance of such a crime. A “crime of violence” under federal law includes offenses such as robbery, kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon, and certain drug trafficking crimes. The statute imposes mandatory minimum sentences that must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed. A first conviction under § 924(c) carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years; if the firearm is brandished, the minimum increases to 7 years; if discharged, 10 years. A second or subsequent conviction carries a mandatory minimum of 25 years to life. These penalties apply regardless of whether the underlying crime of violence is prosecuted federally or in state court. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA) prosecutes these cases in the Norfolk Division, which has jurisdiction over Suffolk. The federal sentencing guidelines (USSG § 2K2.4) further enhance penalties based on the specific firearm involved. There is no parole in the federal system, meaning any sentence imposed must be served in full, subject only to good-time credit of up to 54 days per year. A 924c charge defense lawyer Suffolk must understand the interplay between § 924(c) and the underlying predicate offense to build an effective strategy.
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. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII — official site) — Use of a firearm in a crime of violence statute.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (Justice.gov — official site) — Prosecuting authority for Suffolk federal cases.
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), prosecutors routinely seek the maximum mandatory minimum under § 924(c). We have observed that the government often charges the firearm enhancement even when the firearm was not used in a violent manner, relying on constructive possession theories.
- Contact a federal criminal attorney immediately upon arrest or notification of a federal investigation.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer — federal agents may use informants or recorded calls.
- Preserve all evidence, including phone records, GPS data, and any documentation of the alleged incident.
- Your attorney will file a motion to suppress evidence if law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a potential plea agreement that may reduce or dismiss the § 924(c) count.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable resolution cannot be reached — federal conviction rates are high, but a strong defense can challenge the government’s evidence.
In Suffolk, Virginia, 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/Carry Firearm During Crime of Violence (First Conviction) | Federal Felony | 5 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; 5 years supervised release; loss of firearm rights |
| Brandishing Firearm During Crime of Violence (First Conviction) | Federal Felony | 7 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; 5 years supervised release; loss of firearm rights |
| Discharging Firearm During Crime of Violence (First Conviction) | Federal Felony | 10 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; 5 years supervised release; loss of firearm rights |
| Second or Subsequent § 924(c) Conviction | Federal Felony | 25 years to life mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; 5 years supervised release; loss of firearm rights |
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 those involving 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) charges, and has a deep understanding of the federal sentencing guidelines and the procedures of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — is committed to providing aggressive representation for clients facing serious federal firearms charges in Suffolk.
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 Suffolk and across Virginia. While specific case results for federal § 924(c) charges in Suffolk 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 90 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), with access via I-64 and Route 58. We serve as a use of a firearm in crime of violence lawyer near Suffolk. Serving the communities of Suffolk, Harbour View, and North Suffolk. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
(888) 437-7747 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Charges in Suffolk
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. A gun enhancement defense lawyer Suffolk will scrutinize the government’s evidence for Fourth Amendment violations.
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 Suffolk, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Suffolk 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 Suffolk General District Court (150 North Main Street, Suite 2G, Suffolk, VA 23434).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Suffolk, 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 Suffolk Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Learn more about our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia services. For related federal criminal defense in nearby localities, see our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesapeake and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesterfield County pages. For other legal needs in Suffolk, explore our Business Succession Lawyer Suffolk and Defamation Lawyer Suffolk services.
Last verified: May 2026. This page was last updated on 2026-05-02.