Felon In Possession Lawyer Gloucester Virginia — Federal Firearm Defense
A federal felon in possession charge in Gloucester County, Virginia, is prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) and carries a mandatory minimum of 15 years if you have three prior violent felony convictions. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these serious federal firearm offenses. Our team includes former prosecutors with insight into federal case construction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Gloucester County, VA | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Felon in Possession Statute in Virginia
Federal law, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), prohibits any person who has been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year from possessing any firearm or ammunition. This statute is the primary tool for federal prosecutors in Gloucester County and across the Eastern District of Virginia. A conviction is a federal felony with severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and the permanent loss of firearm rights. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, defends clients against these charges by challenging the legality of searches, the validity of prior convictions, and the government’s proof of possession.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal firearm statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 922 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- Initial Investigation & Arrest: Federal agents (ATF, FBI) execute search warrants and make arrests. You will be brought before a U.S. Magistrate Judge for an initial appearance.
- Detention Hearing: The government will argue for your detention without bond. Your defense lawyer must present arguments for your release pending trial.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The U.S. Attorney presents evidence to a grand jury to secure a formal indictment for violating 18 U.S.C. § 922(g).
- Arraignment & Plea: You are formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty. Extensive discovery begins.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence, challenge the prior conviction, or dismiss the case.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a federal jury trial or is resolved through negotiated plea agreement.
Penalties for Federal Felon in Possession
In Gloucester County, a federal felon in possession conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, but enhanced penalties apply with prior convictions.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Supervised Release |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years* | Up to $250,000 | Up to 3 years |
| Armed Career Criminal (18 U.S.C. § 924(e)) | Enhanced Federal Felony | Mandatory 15 years to Life | Up to $250,000 | Up to 5 years |
*Maximum base penalty. Sentences are guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Federal Defense Experience
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal criminal charges defense. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who personally handles serious federal matters. We understand the immense pressure of a federal indictment and build defenses focused on the specific elements the government must prove: your status as a convicted felon and your knowing possession of a firearm.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific case results are confidential, our firm-wide record includes favorable outcomes in federal cases through strategic motions and negotiations. Every case is unique, and we dedicate resources to investigate the circumstances of the arrest, the chain of custody of evidence, and the applicability of any sentencing enhancements. Of Counsel attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including a former contract with Child Protective Services, provides additional depth to our defense team for cases involving complex fact patterns.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Defense Lawyer Near Gloucester County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing federal charges in Gloucester County. We are accessible for meetings by appointment to discuss your defense strategy. We serve communities including Gloucester and Gloucester Point.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (804) 423-1382
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations available.
Felon In Possession Defense FAQs
What does “felon in possession” mean in federal court?
It is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) for any person convicted of a felony to possess a firearm or ammunition that has traveled in interstate commerce.
What is the penalty for a federal felon in possession charge?
It depends. The base maximum is 10 years in prison. However, if you have three prior convictions for violent felonies or serious drug offenses, the Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA) triggers a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years to life.
Can a prior conviction be challenged in a felon in possession case?
Yes. A skilled criminal court lawyer can challenge whether a prior state conviction properly qualifies as a “predicate felony” under federal law, which can be a critical defense strategy.
What defenses are available?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search that found the firearm, arguing you did not knowingly possess it, or proving your civil rights were restored, voiding the felony prohibition. The right felon in possession lawyer Gloucester Virginia will identify the best approach.
Why do I need a federal defense lawyer immediately?
Federal cases move quickly from arrest to indictment. Early intervention allows your attorney to negotiate with prosecutors before charges are filed, challenge detention, and begin investigating the government’s evidence, which is essential for a strong criminal charges defense.
Internal Links: For related defense services, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub, or learn about federal defense in Henrico County. For other legal needs, consider a Gloucester DUI lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.