U Street Corridor Gun Possession Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Unlawful gun possession in the U Street Corridor is a serious offense under D.C. Code § 22-4503, carrying mandatory minimum sentences. As a former prosecutor, our firm understands the aggressive charging practices in the District. If you are facing charges, contact a gun possession lawyer U Street Corridor from the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. immediately for a defense strategy. We offer 24/7 consultations.
DC Gun Possession Laws and Penalties
Washington D.C. has some of the strictest firearm laws in the nation. The primary statute governing unregistered firearm possession is D.C. Code § 22-4503, which makes it a crime to carry a pistol without a license, possess an unregistered firearm, or possess a prohibited weapon like a sawed-off shotgun or machine gun. The law also includes provisions for carrying a pistol outside a home or business, which carries severe penalties even for a first offense.
Last verified: April 2026 | District of Columbia Superior Court | D.C. Council official code.
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has built its practice on a deep understanding of both sides of the courtroom. This background is critical when building a defense against gun possession charges, where the prosecution’s strategy must be anticipated and countered from the very first court appearance.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the law, refer to the D.C. Code § 22-4503 (official D.C. Council website). Court procedures and filing information can be found on the District of Columbia Courts website.
Local Court Process for Gun Charges in the U Street Corridor
Gun possession cases in the U Street Corridor are prosecuted in the District of Columbia Superior Court, located at 500 Indiana Avenue NW. These cases are treated with high priority by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Prosecutors often seek pretrial detention for gun charges, making the initial presentment and detention hearing a critical stage. An experienced gun possession lawyer Washington near me U Street Corridor will be prepared to argue for your release at this hearing.
- Arrest and Processing: You will be booked at a DC Metropolitan Police Department precinct. Your first court appearance (presentment) is usually within 24 hours.
- Initial Hearing & Detention Argument: At presentment, the judge will inform you of the charges. Your attorney will argue against pretrial detention, which is common in gun cases.
- Preliminary Hearing/Status Conference: The court will hold a hearing to determine if there is probable cause. Your lawyer can cross-examine arresting officers and challenge evidence.
- Negotiation & Motion Practice: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence if the search was illegal and negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction or dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your case will proceed to a bench or jury trial in Superior Court.
Potential Penalties for Gun Possession in DC
In the U Street Corridor and across Washington D.C., carrying an unregistered pistol carries a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in prison, with a maximum of 5 years, and fines up to $12,500 for a first offense. Subsequent offenses carry higher mandatory minimums.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Pistol Without License (1st) | Felony | 1-5 years (1 yr mandatory min) | Up to $12,500 | Loss of firearm rights, probation |
| Carrying Pistol Without License (2nd+) | Felony | 5-15 years (5 yr mandatory min) | Up to $37,500 | Extended loss of rights, federal prohibitions |
| Unregistered Firearm | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Forfeiture of firearm |
| Possession of Prohibited Weapon | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Mandatory forfeiture, enhanced penalties if used in crime |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Gun Possession Defense
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, we bring substantial resources to every defense. Our founding attorney’s background as a former prosecutor provides unique insight into how gun cases are built and how to challenge them effectively. We believe in Advocacy Without Borders, providing relentless defense regardless of the charges you face.
Our Approach to Gun Possession Cases
We have handled numerous firearm cases in D.C. Superior Court. Our defense strategy begins with a meticulous review of the police report and arrest circumstances to identify any constitutional violations, such as an unlawful stop or search. We then file aggressive motions to suppress evidence, which can lead to the dismissal of charges. If you need an affordable gun possession lawyer Washington U Street Corridor, we work with clients to develop manageable payment plans while providing full-scale defense.
Secondary attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, brings additional depth to complex criminal defense strategies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving the U Street Corridor & Washington D.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
24/7 phone consultations. Meetings by appointment only.
Our team is familiar with the courthouses and procedures in the District. We serve clients throughout the U Street Corridor, Shaw, Logan Circle, Adams Morgan, and surrounding D.C. neighborhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mandatory minimum for a first-time gun charge in DC?
Yes. For carrying a pistol without a license (D.C. Code § 22-4503), a first offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in prison. The judge has no discretion to sentence below this minimum if you are convicted, making a strong defense critical from the start.
Can I get a gun charge dropped in DC?
It depends. Charges may be dropped or dismissed if your attorney successfully files a motion to suppress the firearm as evidence due to an illegal search or seizure. The prosecution may also offer a diversion program or reduce charges in exchange for a plea, depending on the facts and your history.
What should I do if I’m arrested for gun possession?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not answer any police questions or make statements about the firearm. Contact a gun possession lawyer U Street Corridor as soon as possible. The decisions you make in the first hours after arrest can significantly impact the direction of your case.
How much does a gun possession lawyer cost?
Costs vary based on the case’s complexity, whether it goes to trial, and the lawyer’s experience. Many firms, including ours, offer flexible payment plans. It is important to discuss fees upfront. An affordable gun possession lawyer Washington U Street Corridor should provide a clear fee structure during your initial consultation.
What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and felony gun charge in DC?
The key differences are the potential prison time and long-term consequences. Felony charges, like carrying an unlicensed pistol, carry mandatory prison sentences of a year or more and result in the permanent loss of your right to possess firearms. Misdemeanors, like possessing an unregistered long gun, typically have a maximum sentence of one year.
For more information on related charges, see our pages on DC Criminal Defense Lawyer and DC Drug Crime Lawyer. To see how we handle cases in other areas, visit our Virginia Gun Lawyer page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.