Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Atlantic County, NJ
A charge for the use of a firearm in a crime of violence in Atlantic County is a severe federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), carrying mandatory minimum sentences that run consecutively to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these charges, which are prosecuted in the U.S.
Federal Statute for Firearm Use in a Crime of Violence
The primary federal statute governing these charges is 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). This law imposes severe penalties for using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a federal crime of violence or drug trafficking crime. The penalties escalate based on the type of firearm and whether it was brandished or discharged. A conviction under this statute results in a mandatory prison sentence that must be served consecutively (one after another) to any sentence for the underlying crime.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | 18 U.S.C. § 924 (official U.S. Code)
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, refer to 18 U.S.C. § 924 on the Legal Information Institute’s website. For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Atlantic County Federal Court Process for Firearm Charges
Federal firearm charges in Atlantic County are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. These cases typically begin with an investigation by federal agencies like the FBI or ATF, followed by a grand jury indictment. The case is then heard in the U.S. District Court. A key local procedural fact is that New Jersey’s strict state gun laws do not apply in federal court; federal statutes and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines control the case and its potential penalties.
- Initial federal investigation and arrest by agencies like FBI, ATF, or DEA.
- Presentation of evidence to a federal grand jury, which issues an indictment.
- Arraignment and detention hearing in U.S. District Court.
- Extensive discovery phase where the defense reviews all government evidence.
- Pre-trial motions, which may challenge the legality of the search, seizure, or the definition of the underlying crime.
- Plea negotiations or preparation for trial.
Potential Penalties for 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) Convictions
In Atlantic County federal court, a conviction for use of a firearm in a crime of violence carries severe mandatory minimum sentences that increase based on the firearm’s use and type.
| Offense | Mandatory Minimum | Maximum | Fine | Consecutive Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Using/Carrying a Firearm | 5 years | Life | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
| Brandishing a Firearm | 7 years | Life | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
| Discharging a Firearm | 10 years | Life | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
| Second or Subsequent Conviction | 25 years | Life | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of federal firearm charges and the unique pressures of the federal system. Our approach is to meticulously analyze the government’s evidence, challenge the legal sufficiency of the “crime of violence” predicate, and explore all avenues for defense or mitigation.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results in Atlantic County for this charge are not disclosed, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across all practice areas and jurisdictions. In federal cases, favorable outcomes can include charges being dismissed, reduced, or securing sentences below the mandatory minimum through strategic negotiation and litigation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Atlantic County Federal Firearm Charge Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing federal charges in Atlantic County. We are accessible to communities like Atlantic City, Egg Harbor Township, Galloway, and Hamilton Township. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
FAQs: Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Charges
What is a 924c charge?
It is a federal charge under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) for using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in connection with a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime. It carries mandatory prison time that must run consecutively to any other sentence.
What does a gun enhancement defense lawyer do in Atlantic County?
A gun enhancement defense lawyer challenges the government’s evidence that a firearm was used in the crime. This can involve attacking the search and seizure, the link between the gun and the crime, or the legal definition of the underlying “crime of violence.”
Is a 924c charge a state or federal crime?
It is exclusively a federal crime. These cases are investigated by federal agencies and prosecuted in U.S. District Court, not in New Jersey Superior Court in Atlantic County.
What is the minimum sentence for a 924c charge?
The minimum sentence is 5 years in federal prison for simply carrying the firearm, 7 years if brandished, and 10 years if discharged. This sentence must be served after any sentence for the main crime.
Can a 924c charge be dropped?
It depends. The charge can be dismissed if the underlying crime is dismissed, if the firearm evidence is suppressed, or if the government cannot prove the necessary connection. A skilled defense attorney will exploit every weakness in the prosecution’s case.
If you are under investigation or charged with the use of a firearm in a crime of violence, immediate action is critical. Contact our firm for a confidential case review.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your use of a firearm in crime of violence case in Atlantic County.
If you want to see how an Atlantic County case fits into the wider process, our page on use of a firearm in crime of violence lawyer New Jersey covers it from start to finish.
Your case in Atlantic 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 Atlantic County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Atlantic Vicinage (1st Vicinage), 1201 Bacharach Boulevard, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, telephone (609) 402-0100, 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 Atlantic 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: Atlantic County NJ lawyers directory · Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer Bergen County · Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer Hudson County · Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer Monmouth County.