Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer Mercer County — What Are Your Defense Options?

A federal charge for the use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) in Mercer County carries severe mandatory prison sentences. This charge is often added to other federal offenses, dramatically increasing potential penalties. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for individuals facing these serious allegations in the U.S.

Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey legislature URL

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Federal Statute for Firearm Use in a Crime of Violence

The primary statute is 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which imposes mandatory consecutive sentences for using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a federal “crime of violence” or “drug trafficking crime.” In Mercer County, these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. A conviction triggers a mandatory minimum prison term that must be served consecutively to any sentence for the underlying crime. The definition of a “crime of violence” is a critical and often contested legal issue in these cases.

For the official federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 924 (Legal Information Institute). For local court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.

Initial Investigation & Arrest: Federal agents (FBI, ATF, DEA) conduct an investigation, often skilled to an arrest or indictment.
Initial Appearance & Detention Hearing: You will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Newark or Camden. The court will decide if you will be released or detained pending trial.
Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the legal basis of the § 924(c) charge.
Plea Negotiations or Trial: The U.S. Attorney may offer a plea deal. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial in federal court.
Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, with § 924(c) carrying mandatory consecutive penalties.

Penalties for a 924c Charge in Mercer County

In Mercer County federal court, a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries severe mandatory prison sentences that stack on top of penalties for the underlying crime.

Firearm Type / Circumstance	Mandatory Minimum Sentence	Maximum Sentence	Additional Consequences
Basic Offense (First Conviction)	5 years	Life	Consecutive to other sentences; significant fines.
Brandishing the Firearm	7 years	Life	Mandatory consecutive term.
Discharging the Firearm	10 years	Life	Mandatory consecutive term.
Second or Subsequent § 924(c) Conviction	25 years	Life	Mandatory consecutive term.
Underlying “Crime of Violence”	Varies (e.g., robbery, carjacking)	Varies	Sentence for this crime is served before the § 924(c) sentence begins.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Court

Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a focused approach to federal criminal defense. Our attorneys understand the high stakes of federal prosecutions and the specific strategies needed to challenge gun enhancement charges. We analyze every aspect of the government’s case, from the legality of the investigation to the precise definitions required to prove a “crime of violence.” Our firm-wide record includes handling thousands of criminal cases with a commitment to strong client advocacy.

Mr. Sris
Owner & CEO, Managing Attorney
Bar Admissions: Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, New York
A former prosecutor and firm founder, Mr. Sris provides strategic oversight on federal criminal defense matters. His background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in cases involving financial or technical evidence. He accepts a limited number of contested cases to ensure deep, strategic involvement.

Case Results & Client Advocacy

While specific case results are confidential, our firm-wide practice is dedicated to achieving a favorable outcome in every case. We approach each 924c charge defense with a detailed plan, examining search and seizure issues, challenging the connection between the firearm and the alleged crime, and negotiating with federal prosecutors when it serves our client’s interests. We provide full representation throughout the federal process in New Jersey.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Mercer County, NJ

Our New Jersey location represents clients facing federal charges in Mercer County, including Trenton and Princeton. We serve clients at the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.

24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton Township, Ewing, Lawrence, West Windsor, East Windsor, Hopewell, Robbinsville, and Hightstown.

FAQs: Use of a Firearm in a Crime of Violence Charges

What is a “crime of violence” under federal law?

It depends. The definition is demanding and often litigated. Generally, it is a felony that has as an element the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force (the “elements clause”) or is one of several enumerated offenses like robbery or carjacking. A skilled gun enhancement defense lawyer Mercer County can challenge whether the underlying crime meets this definition.

Can a 924c charge be dropped or reduced?

Yes. While the charge carries severe penalties, it can be dismissed if the underlying crime is dismissed, if evidence is suppressed, or if the government cannot prove the necessary connection between the gun and the crime. A 924c charge defense lawyer Mercer County can negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction or dismissal as part of a plea agreement.

What is the difference between “use” and “carry” in a 924c charge?

It depends on the facts. “Use” can mean brandishing, displaying, or firing the gun. “Carry” typically means having the firearm on your person or within easy reach, such as in a vehicle. The government must prove you actively employed the firearm in relation to the crime. A lawyer can argue the facts do not meet the legal standard for either term.

Are there any defenses to a federal gun enhancement?

Yes. Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search that found the gun, arguing the firearm was not connected to the alleged crime, contesting the classification of the underlying offense as a “crime of violence,” or asserting that you did not know the firearm was present. An experienced attorney will identify the best defense strategy for your case.

What happens at a federal detention hearing in New Jersey?

The judge decides if you will be released before trial. The government often seeks detention in gun cases. Your attorney can argue for release under conditions like electronic monitoring. The hearing is critical, and having a lawyer who understands the local federal court’s tendencies is important.

Related Legal Resources

If you are facing federal charges in Mercer County, you may also want to learn about federal criminal defense in New Jersey. For charges in neighboring areas, see our pages for a federal criminal lawyer in Bergen County or a federal criminal lawyer in Burlington County. For other legal needs in Mercer County, consider a business lawyer or a DUI lawyer.

Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.