Felon In Possession Lawyer Arlington Virginia — Federal Firearms Defense
Being a felon in possession of a firearm in Arlington, Virginia, is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. This charge carries a potential 10-year prison sentence and creates a permanent federal criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Law on Felon in Possession Charges
The federal statute prohibiting firearm possession by certain individuals is 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). This law 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. In Arlington, these cases are typically investigated by the ATF or FBI and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. A conviction under this statute is a felony that can impact your rights long after any sentence is served.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal law, see 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local court procedures and rules, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- Initial Investigation & Arrest: Federal agents (ATF, FBI) conduct an investigation, which may lead to an arrest or 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.
- Arraignment: You will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty in U.S. District Court.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your defense attorney will review all evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the indictment.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Your attorney will negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a potential plea agreement. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, where the judge determines the final penalty.
Potential Penalties for a Federal Felon in Possession Conviction
In Arlington, a federal 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 federal prison, though sentences are guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Supervised Release | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of Firearm (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years* | Up to $250,000 | Up to 3 years | Permanent loss of gun rights, felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
*Sentences are determined under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider criminal history and specific offense characteristics.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Defense Approach for Arlington Federal Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to building a strong defense. We challenge the legality of the search or seizure that found the firearm, question whether you knowingly possessed the weapon, and examine the validity of the prior felony conviction. We work to protect your rights at every stage of the federal process.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our defense team, which includes experienced attorneys like Matthew Greene, who has over 30 years of experience and formerly held a contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, focuses on achieving the best possible result. We meticulously analyze every detail of the government’s case.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250 | Local: (703) 636-5417
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. We are a federal criminal defense lawyer near Arlington County courts and the federal courthouse.
Felon In Possession Defense FAQs for Arlington, VA
What does “felon in possession” mean under federal law?
It is a federal crime for anyone convicted of a felony to possess any firearm or ammunition, as defined under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). The law applies regardless of where the prior felony conviction occurred.
Can I beat a federal felon in possession charge?
It depends. A strong defense may challenge whether you knowingly possessed the firearm, if the search was legal, or if your prior conviction qualifies. An aggressive criminal attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Every situation requires a detailed review by a defense lawyer.
What court handles felon in possession cases in Arlington?
These cases are prosecuted federally in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division. They are not handled in Arlington County General District Court or Circuit Court.
What are the penalties if convicted?
The maximum penalty is 10 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. The actual sentence is guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider your criminal history and details of the offense.
Why do I need a federal defense lawyer for this charge?
Federal criminal procedure is complex and differs significantly from state court. A criminal court lawyer with federal experience understands the rules, can negotiate with U.S. Attorneys, and is essential for mounting an effective defense against serious criminal charges.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related matters in nearby areas like Alexandria. For other legal needs in Arlington, consider our DUI defense or family law services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.