Federal Firearms Lawyer Passaic County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Federal firearms charges in Passaic County are prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) and carry severe penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences. As a Federal Firearms Lawyer Passaic County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for charges like felon in possession and illegal trafficking. The firm has extensive experience in the U.S.
Federal Firearms Charges in New Jersey
Federal firearms offenses are distinct from state gun charges and are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. These cases are typically investigated by federal agencies like the ATF, FBI, or DEA and heard in federal court, not the Passaic County Superior Court. The primary statute is the National Firearms Act and the Gun Control Act of 1968, codified under 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44. Common charges include possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (e.g., a convicted felon), trafficking firearms without a license, possession of an unregistered firearm (like a sawed-off shotgun), and using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime or crime of violence.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44
Official Resources & Court Information
Federal firearms cases in Passaic County fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. The Newark or Camden divisions handle these prosecutions. The applicable federal laws are found in Title 18 of the U.S. Code, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 922 (unlawful acts) and § 924 (penalties). Understanding the federal rules of criminal procedure and evidence is critical for a defense.
Defense Strategy for Federal Gun Charges in Passaic County
Defending against federal firearms charges requires a specific and aggressive approach. The investigation often begins long before an arrest, involving wiretaps, undercover operations, and confidential informants. A key local procedural fact is that many federal firearms cases in New Jersey originate from joint task forces involving local police and federal agents, making early intervention during the investigation phase important.
- Immediate Case Assessment: After arrest or upon learning of a federal investigation, secure counsel immediately to analyze the indictment and evidence.
- Detention Hearing: Argue for pretrial release by presenting ties to the community, employment, and lack of flight risk.
- Challenge the Investigation: File motions to suppress evidence obtained through illegal searches, seizures, or violations of Miranda rights.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office: Explore possibilities for a plea agreement that may reduce charges or recommend a lower sentence.
- Trial Preparation: If no acceptable plea is offered, prepare a vigorous defense for trial, challenging the government’s evidence on possession, intent, and knowledge.
- Sentencing Mitigation: If convicted, present extensive mitigation evidence to argue for a sentence below the advisory guideline range.
Potential Penalties for Federal Firearms Crimes
In Passaic County, federal firearms convictions carry severe penalties, including lengthy mandatory minimum prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years* | Up to $250,000 | 3 years supervised release, loss of gun rights |
| Firearm Trafficking | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture of assets, supervised release |
| Possession in Furtherance of Drug Crime (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | 5-year mandatory minimum, consecutive to other sentences | Up to $250,000 | Enhanced penalties for subsequent convictions |
| Possession of an Unregistered Firearm (NFA) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Forfeiture of the firearm |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Sentences are governed by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider criminal history and specific offense characteristics.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Firearms Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides a strategic advantage in contested cases. Our team understands the immense pressure of facing federal charges. We approach each case with a focus on the specific details of the investigation and the individual circumstances of our client.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific case results are confidential, our firm-wide experience includes handling serious federal charges. We dedicate ourselves to building a strong defense from the moment you contact us. Our goal is to protect your rights and seek a favorable resolution, whether through negotiation, litigation, or trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Passaic County Federal Firearms Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Passaic County, including Paterson, Clifton, Wayne, and Passaic City. We provide representation for individuals facing federal gun charges.
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 — meetings by appointment only. We are accessible via major highways including the Garden State Parkway and I-195, serving as your federal firearms offense defense lawyer Passaic County and gun charge defense lawyer Passaic County.
Federal Firearms Lawyer Passaic County FAQ
What is the difference between a state and federal gun charge in Passaic County?
It depends on who is prosecuting and the nature of the crime. State charges (e.g., unlawful possession) are handled in Passaic County Superior Court under NJ law. Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney in federal court under U.S. Code, often involving interstate commerce, prior felonies, or connections to other federal crimes.
What is a common federal firearms charge?
18 U.S.C. § 922(g) makes it illegal for certain prohibited persons to possess a firearm. This includes convicted felons, individuals subject to a domestic violence restraining order, and unlawful drug users. This is a frequent charge brought by federal prosecutors in New Jersey.
Are there mandatory minimum sentences for federal gun crimes?
Yes. Certain charges carry mandatory minimum prison sentences. For example, under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), using or carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime or crime of violence carries a mandatory 5-year prison sentence, which must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed.
Can I get bail in a federal firearms case?
It is possible, but often challenging. Federal prosecutors frequently move for pretrial detention, arguing the defendant is a danger to the community or a flight risk. A skilled Federal Firearms Lawyer Passaic County can argue for release at a detention hearing by presenting evidence of community ties, employment, and lack of risk.
What should I do if I am under federal investigation for a firearms offense?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Contact a lawyer as early as possible. Early intervention by a federal firearms offense defense lawyer Passaic County can be critical, potentially influencing whether charges are filed or allowing for negotiations before an indictment.
Internal Resources
If you are facing other legal issues, our firm also handles related matters. Learn more about criminal defense in Passaic County or explore our New Jersey federal criminal defense hub. For cases in neighboring areas, we also serve as a federal criminal lawyer in Bergen County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.
Passaic County is one part of a statewide practice, and our page on federal firearms lawyer New Jersey covers the process from start to finish.
Your case in Passaic County, New Jersey
Federal charges are heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey (Newark, Trenton and Camden), not in county court; related state charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Passaic County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Passaic Vicinage (11th Vicinage), 77 Hamilton Street, Paterson, NJ 07505, telephone (973) 247-8000, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is Title 18 of the United States Code and the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Passaic County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Passaic County NJ lawyers directory · Federal Firearms Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Federal Firearms Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Federal Firearms Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.