Alleghany VA Felon In Possession Of A Firearm Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A federal charge for a felon in possession of a firearm in Alleghany, VA, under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) carries severe penalties, including a mandatory minimum prison sentence. As an experienced Alleghany VA felon in possession of a firearm lawyer, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands the federal court system and can build a defense strategy for your case. Contact us immediately for a consultation.
Federal Law on Firearm Possession by a Prohibited Person
Federal law strictly prohibits individuals with certain prior felony convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition. This offense is prosecuted in U.S. District Court, not state court, and is governed by 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). The statute makes it unlawful for any person who has been convicted in any court of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year to ship, transport, possess, or receive any firearm or ammunition. The law is a key tool for federal prosecutors aiming to reduce gun violence by keeping weapons out of the hands of those deemed most likely to misuse them.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of both sides of the courtroom to your defense. Our team includes attorneys with specific experience in federal criminal court.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the federal statute, you can review 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures and rules in the jurisdiction covering Alleghany County, visit the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia website.
handling a Federal Firearms Charge in Alleghany
Federal firearm charges are complex and aggressively pursued. A key local procedural fact is that cases for Alleghany County residents are typically heard in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, often at the Roanoke courthouse. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly possessed a firearm and that you had a qualifying prior felony conviction. An experienced criminal court lawyer will scrutinize every aspect of the case, from the legality of the search that discovered the firearm to the chain of custody of the evidence.
- Initial Arrest and Arraignment: You will be brought before a federal magistrate judge, informed of the charges, and have bail conditions set.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will file motions, which may challenge the evidence (like a motion to suppress) or the legal sufficiency of the charges.
- Discovery and Negotiation: The government provides its evidence. Your lawyer reviews it and may engage in plea negotiations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
- Trial Preparation: If no plea agreement is reached, your defense team prepares for trial, developing a strategy to create reasonable doubt.
- Trial or Sentencing: The case proceeds to a jury trial. If convicted, or if a plea is entered, the court moves to sentencing under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for a Federal Felon in Possession Charge
In the federal system, a conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, but mandatory minimum sentences often apply, especially with prior convictions.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of Firearm (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years; 15-year mandatory min. with 3+ prior violent felony/drug convictions (Armed Career Criminal Act) | Up to $250,000 | Supervised release for up to 3 years after prison; permanent loss of firearm rights; felony record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Firearm Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a documented track record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide, we have the depth to handle serious federal charges. Our lead attorney for complex federal criminal defense, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally handles a limited number of high-stakes cases. For federal charges in the Alleghany area, Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, provides invaluable secondary counsel. His deep understanding of high-pressure litigation is a critical asset.
Documented Case Results in Alleghany County
While we maintain a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate, our approach is always focused on the specifics of your case. In Alleghany County courts, we have successfully defended clients against serious charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Alleghany and surrounding communities from our Shenandoah Valley location.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location: 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. Our Woodstock location serves clients in the Alleghany area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes a “felon in possession” charge a federal crime?
It is a federal crime because it violates a United States Code statute (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)). Federal agencies like the ATF often investigate, and the case is prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in federal district court, not state court.
Can a state-level criminal attorney handle a federal firearm case?
It depends. While a skilled state criminal attorney may have transferable skills, federal court has distinct procedures, rules, and sentencing guidelines. Hiring a defense lawyer with specific federal experience, like those at our firm, is strongly advised for the best possible outcome.
What are common defenses to a felon in possession charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment), arguing you did not knowingly possess the firearm, or contesting whether your prior conviction legally disqualifies you under the federal statute. A thorough investigation by your criminal charges defense team is essential.
Is there a mandatory minimum sentence?
Yes. Under the Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA), a defendant with three or more prior convictions for violent felonies or serious drug offenses faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison for a § 922(g) violation.
What should I do if I am arrested on a federal gun charge?
Remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Contact a firm like ours that offers 24/7 consultations to secure experienced federal defense counsel as soon as possible.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.