Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Lawyer in Queen Anne’s County, MD
A possession or use of a machine gun charge in Queen Anne’s County is a serious state and federal felony. Under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(o)) and Maryland law (Md. Code, Criminal Law § 4-401), penalties include mandatory minimum prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent felony record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these complex charges.
What Is a Machine Gun Under Maryland and Federal Law?
Both Maryland and federal statutes define a machine gun as any weapon that shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot, automatically more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. This includes the frame or receiver of any such weapon, any part designed and intended solely for use in converting a weapon into a machine gun, and any combination of parts from which a machine gun can be assembled.
Last verified: March 2026 | District Court of MD for Queen Anne’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s firearm laws, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (official Maryland General Assembly site). For federal statutes, see the U.S. Code, Title 18, Chapter 44 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). Court procedures for Queen Anne’s County are handled at the District Court of MD for Queen Anne’s County for state charges and the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland for federal charges.
Defending a Machine Gun Charge in Queen Anne’s County
Defending a machine gun possession charge requires immediate action and a detailed understanding of both state and federal law. The State’s Attorney for Queen Anne’s County prosecutes state charges, while the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland handles federal cases. Investigations often involve the Maryland State Police, ATF, and FBI.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Your statements can be used against you in both state and federal court.
- Case Assessment: Your attorney will review all evidence, including search warrants, police reports, and the weapon’s condition, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Motion Practice: File pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the weapon’s classification as a machine gun under the law.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal of charges or prepare a vigorous defense for trial.
Potential Penalties for Machine Gun Charges
In Queen Anne’s County, possession or use of a machine gun is a felony that can result in decades of imprisonment under overlapping state and federal laws.
| Charge | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of a Machine Gun (MD State) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent felony record, firearm prohibition |
| Use of a Machine Gun in a Crime of Violence (MD) | Felony | Mandatory 5-20 years (consecutive to other sentences) | Up to $10,000 | Enhanced penalties for underlying crime |
| Unlawful Possession (Federal – 18 U.S.C. § 922(o)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal supervised release, loss of civil rights |
| Possession by a Prohibited Person (Federal) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Enhanced penalties based on criminal history |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Complex Firearms Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how these cases are built. We have handled complex criminal matters across multiple jurisdictions. Our approach involves a detailed review of the facts and law to build a strong defense.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of handling complex criminal cases. While specific results depend on the unique facts of each case, our attorneys work to achieve the best possible outcome, which can include motions to suppress evidence, charge reductions, or favorable plea agreements. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex federal and state matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Machine Gun Possession Lawyer Queen Anne’s County – Contact Us
If you are facing an automatic weapon charge defense lawyer Queen Anne’s County, immediate legal help is critical. Our Maryland office serves clients in Queen Anne’s County, including Centreville, Queenstown, Grasonville, Stevensville, Chester, and Church Hill.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between state and federal charges for machine gun possession?
It depends. You can be charged under Maryland state law, federal law, or both. State charges are prosecuted in Queen Anne’s County Circuit Court. Federal charges are prosecuted in U.S. District Court by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Federal penalties often carry longer mandatory sentences and are served in federal prison without parole.
Can I get a machine gun charge expunged in Maryland?
No. Felony convictions for possession or use of a machine gun are generally not eligible for expungement in Maryland. A conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and your right to possess firearms.
What are common defenses to a machine gun possession charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment violation), arguing the weapon is not legally classified as a machine gun, lack of knowledge or possession, and entrapment. An experienced possession or use of a machine gun lawyer Queen Annes County can evaluate which defenses apply to your case.
What should I do if I’m arrested for a machine gun charge?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not answer any questions or make any statements to law enforcement. Contact a criminal defense attorney who handles federal and state weapons charges as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Are there any exceptions to the ban on machine guns?
Yes, but they are very narrow. Exceptions under federal law may apply to weapons lawfully registered under the National Firearms Act (NFA) before May 19, 1986, and possessed by the registered owner. These weapons are heavily regulated. Most private citizens cannot legally possess a machine gun.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other serious charges, you may need a Queen Anne’s County criminal defense lawyer or a federal criminal defense attorney.
Other Locations: We also serve clients in neighboring areas. For help in similar cases, see our Montgomery County criminal lawyer or Anne Arundel County criminal lawyer pages.
Statewide Information: For more on Maryland criminal defense, visit our Maryland criminal lawyer hub page.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.