Machine Gun Offense Lawyer Prince Georges County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A machine gun offense in Prince George’s County is a serious felony under both Maryland and federal law, carrying severe penalties including mandatory minimum prison sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing these charges. Our team, led by former prosecutors, understands the complex interplay of state and federal statutes. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Maryland and Federal Machine Gun Laws
In Maryland, possession, use, or sale of a machine gun is strictly prohibited under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 4-401. A machine gun is defined as a weapon that shoots automatically more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. This state charge is a felony. Simultaneously, federal law under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and the Gun Control Act imposes its own severe penalties for the unlawful possession or transfer of a machine gun, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
External Legal Resources
For the official Maryland statute, see Md. Code, Criminal Law § 4-401. For court information, visit the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County website.
Defending a Machine Gun Charge in Prince George’s County
Defending a machine gun offense requires immediate and aggressive action. These cases are often investigated by joint federal and state task forces, skilled to charges in multiple jurisdictions. The key is to challenge the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the weapon. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, the evidence may be suppressed.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Contact a lawyer the moment you are aware of an investigation or arrest.
- Case Assessment & Jurisdiction Analysis: Your attorney will determine whether you face state, federal, or both sets of charges and develop a unified defense strategy.
- Investigate the Search & Seizure: A thorough review of the warrant, probable cause affidavit, and police conduct is conducted to file motions to suppress evidence.
- Explore All Defense Avenues: This includes examining weapon functionality (was it truly a machine gun?), ownership, knowledge, and intent. Were you aware of the weapon’s capabilities?
- Negotiate or Prepare for Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence and motions, your attorney will advise on pursuing a favorable plea agreement or preparing a vigorous trial defense.
Potential Penalties for a Machine Gun Offense
In Prince George’s County, a machine gun offense is a felony carrying a minimum of 5 years in prison under Maryland law, with federal penalties often being even more severe, including 10-year mandatory minimums.
| Charge Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Felony (Md. Code § 4-401) | Felony | Minimum 5 years, up to 20 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent loss of firearm rights | Forfeiture of weapon, federal charges likely |
| Federal Felony (26 U.S.C. § 5861) | Felony | Mandatory minimum 10 years, up to life | Up to $250,000 | Permanent loss of firearm rights | Asset forfeiture, supervised release |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Complex Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We understand the high stakes of machine gun charges and the need for a defense that addresses both state and federal courts.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific case results are confidential, our firm’s approach in complex weapon charges involves meticulous investigation and challenging the prosecution’s evidence. For example, in past firearm-related cases, our attorneys have successfully argued motions to suppress evidence obtained through unlawful searches, skilled to reduced or dismissed charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in complex financial and technical cases, provides strategic oversight on cases involving intricate evidentiary issues.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Prince George’s County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Rockville/MD Location — Montgomery County area (by appointment)
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
Our Maryland office represents clients at Prince George’s County courts. We serve communities throughout the county, including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland. If you need a machine gun offense lawyer near me Prince George’s County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Machine Gun Offense Lawyer Prince Georges County FAQs
What is considered a machine gun under Maryland law?
Yes. Maryland law defines a machine gun as any firearm that shoots automatically more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. This includes converted semi-automatic weapons. Possession is a felony under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 4-401.
Can I face both state and federal charges for the same machine gun?
It depends. Dual sovereignty allows both Maryland and the federal government to prosecute you for the same act if it violates both state and federal laws. This is common in machine gun cases investigated by joint task forces. An experienced machine gun offense lawyer Prince Georges County can develop a defense strategy for both jurisdictions.
What are the best defenses against a machine gun charge?
Key defenses include challenging an illegal search (Fourth Amendment violation), proving lack of knowledge that the weapon was a machine gun, demonstrating the weapon was not functional, or arguing mistaken identity. The specific defense depends entirely on the facts of your case and requires immediate legal analysis.
Is there an affordable machine gun offense lawyer Prince George’s County?
Legal fees depend on case complexity, but Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides transparent consultations. We discuss potential strategies and associated costs upfront. The severe consequences of a conviction make investing in a qualified defense critical. We offer 24/7 consultations at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.
What happens after an arrest for a machine gun offense?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing follows within 24 hours if detained. The case will then proceed to either Prince George’s County Circuit Court (for state felonies) or U.S. District Court. Do not speak to authorities without your attorney present.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other serious charges, our firm also provides representation for federal crimes in Prince George’s County. For broader context, see our Maryland criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.