Federal Firearms Lawyer in Middlesex County, NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
Federal firearms charges in Middlesex County are prosecuted in U.S. District Court under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) and carry severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences. As a Federal Firearms Lawyer Middlesex County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for charges like felon in possession and straw purchases. The firm has extensive experience in the District of New Jersey federal courts.
Federal Firearms Law 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. The primary statute is 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), which prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by certain categories of persons, including convicted felons, unlawful drug users, and individuals subject to domestic violence restraining orders. Cases are typically investigated by the ATF, FBI, or local task forces before indictment by a federal grand jury.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey legislature URL
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of federal firearms laws, see 18 U.S.C. § 922 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on the federal court handling these cases, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
handling Federal Firearms Charges in Middlesex County
Federal firearms cases in Middlesex County originate from investigations by federal agencies and are adjudicated in the Newark or Trenton divisions of the U.S. District Court. The process is governed by the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which impose severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses. A firearms offense defense lawyer Middlesex County must be familiar with both federal procedural rules and the specific practices of the District of New Jersey.
- Initial Investigation & Arrest: You may be contacted by federal agents (ATF, FBI) or arrested following a grand jury indictment.
- Initial Appearance & Detention Hearing: You will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge, who will advise you of the charges and determine if you will be released or detained pending trial.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and challenge the indictment if necessary.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The U.S. Attorney may offer a plea agreement. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial in federal court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing is guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the specific offense and your criminal history.
Potential Penalties for Federal Firearms Crimes
In federal court, firearms offenses carry severe penalties, including lengthy mandatory 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 |
| Straw Purchase (18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(6)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Felony record, ineligibility for federal benefits |
| 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 | Severe sentencing enhancement |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
*Enhanced penalties apply with prior violent felony or drug convictions.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Firearms Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney, personally handles complex federal criminal defense matters and accepts only a limited number of cases to ensure deep, strategic involvement. His background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in cases involving technical or financial evidence.
Our Approach to Federal Firearms Cases
As a Federal Firearms Lawyer Middlesex County, our defense strategy begins at the investigative stage. We scrutinize the legality of searches, seizures, and interrogations. We challenge the chain of custody of evidence and the credibility of witnesses. In cases involving alleged prohibited persons, we examine the validity of the prior conviction that forms the basis of the charge. Our goal is to secure a dismissal or reduction of charges before trial, but we are fully prepared to defend you at trial if necessary.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Middlesex County Federal Firearms Lawyer
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.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Middlesex County, including New Brunswick, Edison, Woodbridge, Old Bridge, Piscataway, and Perth Amboy. We offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
Federal Firearms Defense FAQs
What is a federal firearms charge?
It is a violation of U.S. federal law, primarily 18 U.S.C. § 922, prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice, not state authorities. Common charges include felon in possession, making false statements to acquire a firearm, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
What is the difference between a state and federal gun charge?
Federal charges are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal court under U.S. law, often involving interstate commerce or federal agencies. State charges are prosecuted by county prosecutors under New Jersey law in Superior Court. Federal penalties are typically more severe and come with mandatory minimum sentences.
What are the penalties for a federal firearms conviction?
Penalties vary but are severe. For example, being a felon in possession carries up to 10 years in federal prison. Possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years, which must be served consecutively to any other sentence. Fines can reach $250,000.
Can I get bail in a federal firearms case?
It depends. After an initial appearance, a detention hearing is held. The court may grant release with conditions or order detention if you are deemed a flight risk or danger to the community. The nature of firearms charges often leads prosecutors to seek detention.
Why do I need a specific federal firearms lawyer?
Federal practice involves unique rules, procedures, and sentencing guidelines. A Federal Firearms Lawyer Middlesex County with experience in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey understands how to handle this complex system, challenge federal evidence, and negotiate with U.S. Attorneys.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides defense for state criminal charges in Middlesex County and DUI offenses.
Other Locations: We also serve clients in neighboring counties like Bergen County and Monmouth County.
Learn More: For more information on our federal defense practice, visit our New Jersey Federal Criminal Defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures are complex and subject to change. The information on this page is for general understanding and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation regarding your specific situation.