Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Somerset County — Defending Federal Firearms Charges
Federal firearms charges in Somerset County, New Jersey, are prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 922 and carry severe mandatory minimum sentences. As a Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Somerset County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients against charges like felon in possession, illegal trafficking, and use of a firearm in a crime of violence.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | 18 U.S.C. § 922
Federal gun crimes are distinct from state charges. They are investigated by federal agencies like the ATF, FBI, or DEA and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. Convictions often result in lengthy prison terms under federal sentencing guidelines, which do not offer parole. A Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Somerset County must understand both the federal statutes and the specific procedures of the U.S. District Court.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm’s combined legal experience exceeds 120 years. We focus on building a strong defense from the investigation phase through trial or negotiation.
Federal Firearms Laws and Somerset County Jurisdiction
Federal gun laws are demanding and broadly applied. Common charges include possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (e.g., a convicted felon), making false statements during a firearm purchase (a “straw purchase”), possession of an unregistered firearm (like a sawed-off shotgun or silencer), and using or carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime or crime of violence. These cases are often part of larger investigations targeting drug trafficking or organized crime networks operating in or through New Jersey.
The U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey has jurisdiction over federal cases arising in Somerset County. While the main courthouses are in Newark, Trenton, and Camden, proceedings may involve initial appearances, detention hearings, and other matters coordinated through the federal system. A firearms offense defense lawyer Somerset County must be prepared to handle this federal court process.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: If you suspect you are under federal investigation for a firearms offense, do not speak to agents without an attorney. Contact a federal defense lawyer as early as possible.
- Detention Hearing: Following an arrest, a federal magistrate judge will hold a hearing to determine if you will be released pending trial. The government often seeks detention in gun cases.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence (discovery) and file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the charges.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement. Your lawyer will negotiate for a favorable outcome, which may involve arguing for a sentence below the mandatory minimum or guideline range.
- Sentencing: If convicted, federal sentencing follows strict guidelines. Your attorney will present mitigating factors to argue for the most lenient sentence possible.
Potential Penalties for Federal Gun Crimes
In Somerset County, federal gun crimes carry severe penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences of 5, 10, or even 30 years, depending on the specific offense and the defendant’s criminal history.
| 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 permanently |
| Use of Firearm in Crime of Violence/Drug Trafficking (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | 5-year mandatory minimum (consecutive to other sentences); 7-year min. for brandishing; 10-year min. for discharge | Up to $250,000 | Sentence runs consecutively to any other sentence imposed |
| Straw Purchase (18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(6)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture of firearms, permanent criminal record |
| Possession of Unregistered Firearm (26 U.S.C. § 5861) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Forfeiture of the weapon |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Approach to Federal Firearms Defense
Our defense strategy begins by scrutinizing every aspect of the government’s case. We examine whether your Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable search and seizure were violated. Was the gun found during a traffic stop that lacked probable cause? Was a warrant improperly executed? We also challenge the forensic evidence and the testimony of law enforcement and informants. In cases where a plea is the best option, we use our understanding of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines to advocate for downward departures or variances, arguing for a sentence below the harsh mandatory minimums.
For matters involving intricate federal procedure or specific evidentiary challenges, Mr. Sris may collaborate with other experienced counsel within the firm to build the strongest possible defense team for your case.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results in Somerset County federal court are not publicly verifiable, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. These results include dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable plea agreements in criminal matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Somerset County, including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206. As a federal gun crime lawyer Somerset County residents can consult, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Somerset County FAQ
What is the difference between a state and federal gun charge in New Jersey?
It depends on who is prosecuting and the specific law violated. State charges (like unlawful possession under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5) are handled in Superior Court. Federal charges (under 18 U.S.C. § 922) are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney in U.S. District Court, often involve interstate commerce, and carry longer mandatory sentences without parole.
Can I get bail in a federal firearms case?
It depends. After a federal arrest, a detention hearing is held. For serious gun charges, especially those linked to violence or drug trafficking, the government often argues for detention without bail. A strong defense attorney can argue for release conditions like home confinement or electronic monitoring.
What is a “straw purchase” of a firearm?
It is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(6). A straw purchase occurs when someone who is legally eligible to buy a firearm does so on behalf of someone who is prohibited from buying one (like a felon) or who does not want the purchase traced to them. Both the buyer and the actual recipient can be charged.
What are the defenses to a federal felon in possession charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search that found the firearm, arguing you were not in possession, proving you are not a prohibited person, or questioning the firearm’s connection to interstate commerce. A gun charge defense lawyer Somerset County can evaluate which defenses apply to your case.
Where are federal court proceedings for Somerset County held?
Federal cases for Somerset County fall under the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. Main courthouses are in Newark, Trenton, and Camden. Initial appearances, arraignments, and hearings may be scheduled at any of these locations depending on case assignment and judge.
For more information on federal court procedures, you can visit the official website of the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.
If you are facing federal firearms charges, you need a dedicated Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Somerset County. We also represent clients on related matters; learn about our work as a Somerset County criminal defense lawyer. For a broader view of our federal practice, visit our New Jersey federal criminal lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Bergen County.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If you want to see how a Somerset County case fits into the wider process, our page on federal gun crime lawyer New Jersey covers it from start to finish.
Your case in Somerset 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 Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, 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 Somerset 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: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory.