Arson Bombing Of Federal Property Lawyer Fairfax County Virginia — Federal Criminal Defense
Arson or bombing of federal property is a serious federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 844(f), prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. If convicted, you face severe penalties, including decades in federal prison. As an experienced criminal attorney, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for Fairfax County residents facing these charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Law on Arson and Bombing of Government Property
The federal statute criminalizing the malicious damaging or destroying, or attempting to do so, of any building or property owned or leased by the United States, by fire or explosive, is 18 U.S.C. § 844(f). This law covers a wide range of federal properties, including post offices, courthouses, military installations, and other government buildings. The offense is distinct from state arson charges due to the federal nature of the property and the involvement of agencies like the FBI or ATF in investigations. A conviction requires proof that the defendant acted maliciously and that the property was owned or possessed by the United States.
Key Government Resources
Understanding the law is critical. You can review the official federal statute at the U.S. Code (18 U.S.C. § 844). For local court procedures and rules, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website. These resources provide the formal legal framework governing your case.
- Initial Investigation & Arrest: Federal agents (FBI, ATF) will conduct a thorough investigation, which may include surveillance, forensic analysis, and interviews.
- Initial Appearance & Detention Hearing: After arrest, you will appear before a federal magistrate judge. Your criminal court lawyer can argue for your release pending trial.
- Grand Jury Indictment: A federal grand jury will review evidence to formally charge you. This is a secret proceeding.
- Arraignment & Plea: You will be formally read the charges and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and file motions to challenge the prosecution’s case or suppress evidence.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a federal jury trial or may be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Federal Arson or Bombing
In Fairfax County, a conviction for arson or bombing of federal property under 18 U.S.C. § 844(f) carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years and can result in up to 20 years in federal prison. If the crime results in personal injury, the range increases to 7-40 years, and if it results in a death, the penalty can be life imprisonment or the death penalty.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arson/Bombing of Federal Property | Federal Felony | 5-20 years | Up to $250,000 | Mandatory restitution, supervised release |
| Arson/Bombing Causing Injury | Federal Felony | 7-40 years | Up to $250,000 | Same as above |
| Arson/Bombing Causing Death | Federal Felony | Life or Death Penalty | Up to $250,000 | Same as above |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Court
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of federal investigative tactics and courtroom strategy. We know that federal charges for crimes like arson bombing of federal property require a defense that starts at the investigation stage and challenges the government’s evidence at every turn.
For federal criminal charges, our team includes Matthew Greene, an attorney with over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing him with extensive trial and complex case management skills.
Local Defense for Fairfax County Federal Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location — 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients facing federal criminal charges at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia in Alexandria. We are accessible to residents of Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. If you need a federal criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
FAQs: Federal Arson and Bombing Charges
What makes arson or bombing a federal crime?
It depends. The crime becomes federal when the targeted property is owned, leased, or used by the United States government or any of its departments or agencies. This jurisdictional element triggers investigation by federal agents and prosecution in federal court.
What agencies investigate federal arson cases?
The primary agencies are the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). They have extensive resources for forensic fire analysis, explosives tracing, and surveillance, making a strong defense from a skilled criminal attorney essential early in the process.
Can I get bail on a federal arson charge?
It depends. A federal magistrate judge will hold a detention hearing. The government often argues for detention if the crime involved violence or posed a serious risk to public safety. Your defense lawyer must present strong arguments for your ties to the community and lack of flight risk to secure release.
What is the first step after being charged?
The first critical step is to secure representation from a criminal court lawyer experienced in federal procedure. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Your lawyer will immediately begin analyzing the evidence, challenging the legality of the investigation, and preparing for your initial court appearance.
How long does a federal arson case take?
Under the Speedy Trial Act, a trial should begin within 70 days of indictment. However, complex cases often take 6 to 18 months or longer due to extensive discovery, forensic reports, and pre-trial motions. Your attorney will manage the timeline while building your defense against the criminal charges.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with arson or bombing of federal property in Fairfax County, contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. The federal system is complex and carries severe penalties. Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Related Practice Areas: Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer | Federal Criminal Lawyer Alexandria | Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.