Felon in Possession Lawyer Henrico County — Federal Firearm Defense
A federal charge for a felon in possession of a firearm in Henrico County is a serious offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), carrying up to 10 years in federal prison. As a prohibited person, you face prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Federal Law on Felon in Possession Charges
Federal law strictly prohibits any person convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year in prison from possessing any firearm or ammunition that has traveled in interstate commerce. This statute, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), is the primary charge for a felon in possession lawyer Henrico County to defend against. The law’s broad reach means almost any prior felony conviction can trigger this federal charge if you are found with a gun.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We approach each federal case with a detailed understanding of the statutes and the strategies employed by federal prosecutors.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the federal statute, refer to 18 U.S.C. § 922 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures and rules, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Defending a Prohibited Person Gun Charge in Henrico County
Federal investigations for firearm offenses in Henrico County are typically conducted by the ATF, FBI, or local task forces. A charge for a prohibited person gun charge lawyer Henrico County to handle often stems from a traffic stop, probation search, or tip to law enforcement. The government must prove you knowingly possessed the firearm and that you have a qualifying prior conviction.
An effective defense requires immediate action:
- Secure Representation Immediately: Contact a federal defense attorney before speaking with investigators. Your statements can be used against you.
- Investigate the Stop or Search: We meticulously examine the circumstances of the search and seizure. If your Fourth Amendment rights were violated, we file a motion to suppress the evidence.
- Challenge the “Possession” Element: We analyze whether the government can prove you actually or constructively possessed the firearm. Mere proximity is not enough.
- Scrutinize the Prior Conviction: We verify that your prior offense truly qualifies as a predicate felony under federal law and that your civil rights were not restored.
- Explore Mitigation & Negotiation: If the evidence is strong, we work to negotiate a favorable plea agreement that may avoid mandatory minimums or seek a reduced sentence based on mitigating factors.
Potential Penalties for a Federal Felon in Possession Conviction
In Henrico County, a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, but enhancements can increase this to a mandatory minimum of 15 years to life.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Supervised Release | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of Firearm/Ammunition | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Up to 3 years | Permanent loss of gun rights, felony record, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA) Enhancement | Federal Felony (Enhanced) | Mandatory 15 years to Life | Up to $250,000 | 3-5 years | No parole in federal system; must serve at least 85% of sentence. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal and State Courts
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us unique insight into both sides of a criminal case. We have handled thousands of cases across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington, D.C. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, maintains a focused caseload on complex federal and state matters, ensuring deep personal involvement in each client’s defense strategy.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results in Henrico County federal court are confidential, our firm-wide approach has secured favorable outcomes in complex cases. We have successfully argued motions to suppress evidence, negotiated charges down to avoid mandatory minimums, and advocated for clients at sentencing to minimize incarceration. Our secondary attorney on federal matters, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides a distinct advantage in cases involving financial or technical evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Felon in Possession Lawyer Near Henrico County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing federal charges in Henrico County. We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. We provide legal representation for individuals in Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and surrounding communities.
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) 477-1723
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Felon in Possession Charges in Henrico County
What does “felon in possession” mean under federal law?
It is a federal crime for any person convicted of a felony to possess any firearm or ammunition. The firearm must have traveled in interstate commerce at some point, which is almost always true.
What is the role of a prohibited person gun charge lawyer in Henrico County?
A prohibited person gun charge lawyer Henrico County defends individuals accused under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). They challenge the legality of the search, the proof of possession, the validity of the prior conviction, and work to mitigate penalties, potentially avoiding severe mandatory minimum sentences.
Can a state charge for a felon with a firearm become a federal case?
Yes. Federal authorities often adopt cases involving prohibited persons with firearms, especially if there are factors like drug trafficking, multiple prior convictions, or the use of a weapon in a crime. Having a felon with firearm defense lawyer Henrico County experienced in both state and federal courts is critical.
What are the possible defenses to a federal felon in possession charge?
Defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment), arguing lack of knowing possession, proving the prior conviction does not qualify, or asserting restoration of civil rights. The best defense depends entirely on the specific facts of your case.
What is the first thing I should do if I’m under federal investigation for a gun charge?
Do not speak to investigators. Immediately exercise your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Contact a federal defense lawyer who can intervene on your behalf and guide your interactions with law enforcement.
For related legal help, see our pages on Henrico County Criminal Defense and Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Chesterfield County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.