Virginia Use Of A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A federal charge for Use Of A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence in Virginia 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. provides experienced legal help for these serious federal charges. Contact us for a legal consultation.
Statutory Definition of Use Of A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence
The federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) makes it a separate crime to use, carry, or possess a firearm during and in relation to, or in furtherance of, any federal crime of violence or drug trafficking crime. In Virginia, this charge is prosecuted in federal courts, such as the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA) or the Western District of Virginia (WDVA). The charge is separate from the underlying crime, meaning you face penalties for both the underlying offense and the firearm charge. The statute defines a “crime of violence” as a felony that has as an element the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against another person or property.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Citations
For the full text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (official U.S. Code). For information on federal court procedures in Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Procedural Edge in Virginia Federal Courts
Defending a § 924(c) charge requires a Virginia Use Of A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence Lawyer who understands federal procedure and the specific practices of Virginia’s federal districts. The government must prove the firearm was used “during and in relation to” the underlying crime, which often involves complex evidence linking the gun to the offense. Our team, including attorney Matthew Greene with extensive federal experience, analyzes whether the government can meet this burden and challenges the classification of the underlying offense as a “crime of violence.”
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or indictment.
- Your attorney will file motions to challenge the evidence and the legal basis for the “crime of violence” designation.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to potentially reduce or drop the § 924(c) charge.
- Prepare for trial, focusing on separating the firearm allegation from the underlying crime.
- If convicted, advocate for the most favorable sentencing outcome under the federal guidelines.
Potential Penalties for a Federal Firearm Conviction
In Virginia, a conviction for Use Of A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries severe mandatory prison sentences that must run consecutively to any sentence for the underlying crime.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First § 924(c) Conviction | Federal Felony | Mandatory 5 years to life | Up to $250,000 | Sentence runs consecutive to underlying crime; federal supervised release. |
| Subsequent § 924(c) Conviction | Federal Felony | Mandatory 25 years to life | Up to $250,000 | Sentence runs consecutive; “stacking” of charges leads to decades in prison. |
| Brandishing the Firearm | Enhanced Penalty | Mandatory minimum 7 years | Up to $250,000 | Added to base 5-year minimum. |
| Discharging the Firearm | Enhanced Penalty | Mandatory minimum 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Added to base 5-year minimum. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Firearm Charge
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal criminal defense. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the high stakes of federal firearm charges and provide focused, strategic defense.
Documented Case Results in Federal Matters
Our firm has a firm-wide track record of 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In federal cases, our defense strategies focus on challenging the government’s evidence and legal theories to protect our clients’ futures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Virginia Use Of A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence Lawyer Near You
Our Fairfax location is centrally located for clients across Virginia facing federal charges. We serve all Virginia communities. For a Virginia Use Of A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence Lawyer, contact us for 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Virginia Use Of A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence Lawyer?
Yes. These federal charges carry severe mandatory prison sentences. An experienced Virginia Use Of A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence Lawyer is essential to challenge the evidence and seek the best possible outcome.
What is the penalty for a § 924(c) conviction in Virginia?
It depends on the specifics, but a first conviction carries a mandatory 5-year prison sentence that must run consecutively to the sentence for the underlying crime. Penalties increase dramatically for subsequent convictions or if the firearm was brandished or discharged.
Can the mandatory minimum sentence be avoided?
It depends. Strategies may include challenging the “crime of violence” classification, negotiating a plea to a lesser charge, or obtaining a dismissal of the § 924(c) count. An attorney can evaluate all options.
How much does a federal criminal lawyer cost in Virginia?
Attorney fees for federal firearm cases vary based on complexity. SRIS offers a legal consultation by appointment to discuss your case and fee structure. Payment plans are available. Call (888) 437-7747.
What should I look for in a federal criminal lawyer in Virginia?
Look for documented case results, courtroom experience in Virginia federal courts, and a track record in federal criminal matters. SRIS has 4,739+ documented case results and attorneys with federal defense experience.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related matters like Traffic violations in Virginia.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.