Machine Gun Lawyer in Gloucester County, NJ
Machine gun charges in Gloucester County are prosecuted as second-degree crimes under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4(a), carrying a mandatory 5-10 years in state prison. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these severe federal and state firearm allegations. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses its extensive experience to challenge evidence and protect your rights. Contact us for a consultation.
New Jersey Machine Gun Laws and Penalties
The possession, manufacture, transport, or sale of a machine gun in New Jersey is strictly prohibited under state law. A machine gun is defined as any firearm capable of firing more than one shot automatically, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. This includes parts designed to convert a firearm into a machine gun. The primary statute governing these offenses is N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4(a), which classifies possession of a machine gun as a crime of the second degree.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4(a) (official New Jersey Legislature). Court procedures and forms can be found at the Gloucester Vicinage website.
Defending Machine Gun Charges in Gloucester County
Prosecutors in the Gloucester County Superior Court treat machine gun cases with extreme seriousness due to the mandatory prison terms involved. A conviction is almost certain to result in a lengthy state prison sentence. The key to a defense often lies in challenging the legality of the search that discovered the firearm, the operability of the alleged machine gun, and the prosecution’s ability to prove knowledge and intent. For an affordable machine gun lawyer Gloucester County residents can consult, understanding these technical defenses is critical.
- Arrest and initial charges filed in Superior Court.
- Detention hearing to determine pre-trial release.
- Discovery phase where the state must provide all evidence.
- Pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea negotiations or preparation for trial.
- Sentencing if convicted, with mandatory prison terms.
Potential Penalties for Machine Gun Offenses
In Gloucester County, a machine gun charge is a second-degree crime with a mandatory minimum state prison sentence of five years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of a Machine Gun | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years (mandatory min. 5) | Up to $150,000 | Firearms forfeiture; lifetime ban | Graves Act applies; parole ineligibility |
| Manufacture/Transport | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years (mandatory min. 5) | Up to $150,000 | Firearms forfeiture; lifetime ban | Graves Act applies; federal charges possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Complex Firearms Cases
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that a machine gun charge can upend your life, and we are committed to providing a vigorous defense. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our dedication to clients facing serious legal challenges.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results in Gloucester County for machine gun charges are not publicly disclosed, our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in serious felony cases. We approach each case by meticulously reviewing the evidence, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and developing a strategic defense aimed at protecting your freedom. For a machine gun lawyer near me Gloucester County residents facing these charges need immediate and experienced counsel.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Gloucester County Firearms Defense Team
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Gloucester County. We are located at 44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724. Our office is accessible via I-295, Route 55, and other major highways, serving communities including Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, Monroe Township, Mantua, West Deptford, Glassboro, Woolwich, Harrison Township, and Pitman.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a machine gun in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey law defines a machine gun as any firearm that shoots automatically more than once without manual reloading by a single trigger function. This includes conversion kits or parts designed for that purpose. The definition is broad and strictly enforced under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-1.
Is there a mandatory prison sentence for a machine gun charge?
Yes. Possession of a machine gun under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4(a) is a second-degree crime with a mandatory minimum state prison sentence of five years. The Graves Act applies, meaning parole ineligibility is required.
Can federal charges also be filed?
It depends. While New Jersey state charges are severe, the same conduct often violates federal law under the National Firearms Act. It is common for defendants to face parallel prosecutions from both state and federal authorities, which significantly increases the potential penalties.
What are common defenses to these charges?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment), proving the firearm was not operable as a machine gun, demonstrating a lack of knowledge or intent to possess it, or questioning the chain of custody of the evidence. An experienced attorney will investigate all angles.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer?
Immediately. The consequences of a machine gun conviction are severe and life-altering. Early intervention by a skilled machine gun lawyer Gloucester County relies on is crucial to begin building a defense, protecting your rights during questioning, and handling the complex legal process from the start.
Related Legal Resources
For more information on related legal issues in New Jersey, visit our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub. You may also find our pages on Gloucester County Business Law and Gloucester County Federal Criminal Defense useful.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-20. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.