Firearms Possession Lawyer in Washington, D.C., DC
Firearms possession charges in Washington, D.C., are prosecuted as serious felonies under D.C. Code § 22-4504, carrying up to 5 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results in DC Superior Court. A strong defense requires immediate action to challenge the legality of the search, seizure, and your intent. Our firearms possession lawyer Washington DC team is available 24/7.
DC Firearms Possession Law
In Washington, D.C., firearms possession is strictly regulated under D.C. Code Title 22, with most charges prosecuted as felonies by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC). The primary statute, D.C. Code § 22-4504, prohibits carrying a pistol without a license, a charge that applies even if the firearm is not used. The law presumes any firearm in a vehicle is under the control of all occupants, creating complex legal challenges. Defenses often hinge on Fourth Amendment violations, challenging the legality of the police stop, search, or seizure. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings a background in accounting and information systems to dissect forensic evidence and financial records in complex cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code Council
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of DC firearms laws, refer to the D.C. Code Title 22 (Criminal Offenses and Penalties). All cases are heard at the DC Superior Court, located at 500 Indiana Avenue NW.
Defending a Firearms Case in DC Superior Court
DC’s unique federal-local hybrid jurisdiction means your case is prosecuted by federal attorneys from the USAO-DC, not a local district attorney. The Pretrial Services Agency, not a bail bondsman, will assess you for release, as DC does not use traditional cash bail. A firearms possession lawyer Washington DC must immediately file motions to suppress evidence if the gun was found during an unlawful stop or search. Prosecutors often rely on constructive possession theories, which a skilled drug crime attorney can challenge by proving you lacked knowledge and control of the weapon.
- Secure immediate legal representation following arrest to ensure your rights are protected during questioning by Metropolitan Police or federal agents.
- Your attorney will review the arrest report and evidence to identify potential Fourth Amendment violations regarding the stop, search, or seizure of the firearm.
- File pre-trial motions, including a Motion to Suppress Evidence, to challenge the legality of the police conduct that led to the discovery of the weapon.
- Negotiate with the USAO-DC prosecutor, potentially seeking a reduction to a misdemeanor or a diversion program, especially for first-time offenses.
- Prepare for trial at DC Superior Court, where your lawyer will challenge the prosecution’s evidence and argue against constructive possession if the firearm was not found on your person.
- If convicted, advocate for a mitigated sentence, emphasizing factors like clean record, employment, and rehabilitation efforts.
Potential Penalties for Firearms Charges in DC
In Washington, D.C., carrying a pistol without a license under D.C. Code § 22-4504 is a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $12,500, with mandatory minimum sentences applying in certain circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Pistol Without License (CPWL) | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $12,500 | N/A | Federal firearm prohibition, loss of professional licenses, immigration consequences. |
| Possession of Unregistered Firearm | Misdemeanor/Felony | Up to 1 year / 5 years | Up to $1,000 / $12,500 | N/A | Forfeiture of weapon, permanent criminal record. |
| Possession of Ammunition | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | N/A | Often charged alongside firearm possession. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your DC Firearms Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to complex criminal defense. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand the tactics of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. We have a documented result in Washington, D.C., with a 100% favorable outcome rate for cases in our records. We focus on a full investigation, challenging the prosecution’s evidence at every stage.
Case Results in Washington, D.C.
Our firearms possession lawyer Washington DC team approaches each case with a detailed strategy. In one case, we secured a dismissal of charges after filing a successful motion to suppress evidence obtained during an unlawful vehicle search. We have a documented result in DC showing a 100% favorable outcome rate in our records. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Secondary attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. Admitted in DC, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York, his background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in cases involving forensic evidence.
Contact Our Arlington Office Serving Washington, D.C.
Our Arlington location serves clients in Washington, D.C., and is approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395 and I-66. We are a firearms possession lawyer near DC Superior Court and serve neighborhoods including Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, and Columbia Heights.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250 | Local: (703) 273-4104
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Firearms Possession in Washington, D.C.
Who prosecutes firearms cases in Washington, D.C.?
Firearms cases in DC are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for DC (USAO-DC), which is a federal prosecutor’s office. This is because DC is a federal district, so all criminal charges under the D.C. Code are handled by federal attorneys, not a local district attorney.
Does DC have cash bail for gun charges?
No. DC uses the federal Pretrial Services Agency to assess risk and recommend release conditions—it does not use a traditional cash bail system. Most defendants are released without posting money, though conditions like electronic monitoring may be imposed for serious charges like firearms possession.
What is “constructive possession” of a firearm?
It depends. Constructive possession means the prosecution claims you had the power and intent to control a firearm, even if it wasn’t on your person (e.g., in a shared car or home). A skilled drug possession lawyer or firearms attorney can fight this by proving you lacked knowledge or control. The government must prove you knew the gun was present and could exercise dominion over it.
Can a DC gun charge affect my immigration status?
Yes. A firearms conviction is often considered an “aggravated felony” or a “crime involving moral turpitude” under immigration law, skilled to mandatory detention, deportation, and permanent bars to re-entry. It is critical to consult with a controlled substance lawyer or criminal attorney who understands these severe collateral consequences immediately after arrest.
What should I do if I’m arrested for a gun charge in DC?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a firearms possession lawyer Washington DC as soon as possible to begin building your defense, focusing on challenging the search and seizure and the intent element of the charge. Early intervention is key.
For more information, see our page on DC Criminal Defense Lawyer. We also assist with related matters like drug possession and DUI charges in Washington, D.C.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.