Gloucester County Machine Gun Offense Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A federal machine gun offense in Gloucester County is a serious felony under the National Firearms Act (NFA), 26 U.S.C. § 5861, carrying mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for charges involving illegal possession, transfer, or manufacture of machine guns. Our firm has extensive experience handling federal firearm cases in New Jersey.
Federal Machine Gun Offense Laws in New Jersey
Machine gun offenses are prosecuted federally under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and the Gun Control Act. In New Jersey, state laws also strictly prohibit possession of these weapons, but federal charges are more common due to the severity and interstate nature of firearm regulations. A machine gun is defined under federal law (26 U.S.C. § 5845(b)) as any weapon which shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot, automatically more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. This includes conversion kits, parts, and any combination designed to convert a weapon into a machine gun.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the statutes is critical. The primary federal law is the National Firearms Act, 26 U.S.C. § 5861 (official U.S. Code). For New Jersey-specific court procedures, refer to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Local Defense Strategy for Gloucester County
Federal prosecutors in the District of New Jersey pursue machine gun charges aggressively. A common local procedural fact is that cases often originate from investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) working with New Jersey State Police. An affordable machine gun offense lawyer Gloucester County must be prepared to challenge the legality of searches, the ATF’s classification of the firearm, and the defendant’s knowledge of the weapon’s capabilities.
- Secure immediate legal representation before speaking with any federal agents.
- Your attorney will file a motion to suppress evidence if the search or seizure violated the Fourth Amendment.
- Challenge the ATF’s classification report with an independent firearms experienced.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a plea to a lesser charge, if appropriate.
- Prepare for trial, focusing on intent and knowledge elements of the charge.
Potential Penalties for a Machine Gun Offense
In Gloucester County, a federal machine gun offense carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life imprisonment, along with substantial fines and forfeiture.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illegal Possession of a Machine Gun | Federal Felony | 10 years to life* | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture of weapon, permanent loss of firearm rights, federal supervised release. |
| Illegal Transfer/Manufacture | Federal Felony | 10 years to life* | Up to $250,000 | Same as above, plus potential charges for unlicensed dealing/manufacturing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Mandatory minimum sentences apply, especially with prior convictions or in connection with another crime.
Our Experience with Federal Firearm Cases
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal defenses. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands the tactics used by federal agencies. We have a documented record of handling serious firearm charges, focusing on challenging the government’s evidence and protecting our clients’ constitutional rights.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide approach to federal criminal defense has secured favorable outcomes in numerous cases. While every case is unique, our strategies are built on a deep understanding of federal sentencing guidelines and procedural rules. We work to achieve a favorable result, whether through negotiation or trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Gloucester County Federal Defense Lawyers
If you are facing a machine gun offense charge, time is critical. Our firm is positioned to defend clients in Gloucester County and throughout New Jersey. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
We serve clients in Gloucester County, including near Woodbury, Washington Township, and throughout the county, accessible via Route 55 and the New Jersey Turnpike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a machine gun under federal law?
It depends. Federal law (26 U.S.C. § 5845(b)) defines it as any weapon that fires more than one shot automatically with a single trigger pull. This includes fully automatic firearms, conversion devices like “Glock switches,” and parts designed to convert a semi-automatic into a machine gun.
Can I find an affordable machine gun offense lawyer Gloucester County?
Yes. While federal defense is demanding, our firm works with clients to provide effective representation. The cost of a lawyer is significant, but the consequences of a conviction—a decade or more in prison—are far greater. We discuss fees transparently during an initial consultation.
What are the common defenses to a machine gun charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search that found the weapon, arguing the defendant lacked knowledge the firearm was automatic, contesting the ATF’s technical classification, and asserting the firearm was not operational. An experienced machine gun offense lawyer near me Gloucester County can evaluate which defenses apply.
Is possession of a bump stock a machine gun offense?
Currently, yes. Following a 2018 federal rule change, bump stocks are classified as machine gun parts under the NFA. Possession of a bump stock not registered before the rule’s effective date is a federal crime.
What should I do if I’m contacted by the ATF?
No. Do not speak with them. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a federal criminal defense attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Your lawyer will communicate with agents on your behalf.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other federal charges, our firm also handles Federal Criminal Defense and Firearms Offenses. For other serious charges in New Jersey, see our page on Criminal Defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (609)-983-0003 for the most current guidance regarding your machine gun offense case.
Your case in Gloucester County, New Jersey
Indictable charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division; disorderly-persons offenses are heard in the municipal court where the charge was filed. In Gloucester County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage (15th Vicinage), 70 Hunter Street, Woodbury, NJ 08096, telephone (856) 853-3200, 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 the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Gloucester 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: Gloucester County NJ lawyers directory · Machine Gun Offense Defense Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Machine Gun Offense Defense Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Machine Gun Offense Defense Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.