Machine Gun Offense Lawyer Washington County — Federal Firearms Defense
A machine gun offense in Washington County, New York, is a serious federal crime under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and 18 U.S.C. § 922(o), carrying mandatory minimum prison sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for individuals facing these charges in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York.
Federal Law on Machine Guns in Washington County
Federal law strictly prohibits the possession, transfer, or manufacture of machine guns for civilians, with very limited exceptions. The primary statutes are the National Firearms Act (NFA) and 18 U.S.C. § 922(o). A machine gun is defined 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 the frame or receiver of any such weapon, any part designed and intended solely for use in converting a weapon into a machine gun, or any combination of parts from which a machine gun can be assembled.
Last verified: April 2026 | Washington County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the statutes is critical. You can review the federal firearms laws under 18 U.S.C. § 922 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York website.
Washington County Federal Court Process for Machine Gun Charges
Machine gun offenses are prosecuted federally, not in Washington County’s state courts. The process begins with an investigation by the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives), often involving undercover operations, surveillance, and forensic analysis. If you are under investigation or charged, the case will proceed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York. The federal system has distinct rules, harsh penalties, and no parole.
- Initial investigation by ATF or joint federal task force.
- Federal grand jury indictment issued, formally charging you.
- Arraignment in U.S. District Court where you enter a plea.
- Pretrial motions and hearings, including challenges to evidence.
- Possible plea negotiations or preparation for trial.
- Sentencing hearing if convicted, following U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for a Federal Machine Gun Conviction
In Washington County, a federal machine gun offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of several years in federal prison, with maximum penalties up to life imprisonment if the firearm was used in a crime of violence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illegal Possession of a Machine Gun | Federal Felony | Mandatory min. 5-30 years* | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture of firearm, permanent loss of gun rights, felony record. |
| Use of Machine Gun in Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | Mandatory min. 30 years to life | Up to $250,000 | Same as above, enhanced sentencing. |
| Dealing in Machine Guns without License | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture of assets, business closure. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
*Sentences depend on prior criminal history and specific circumstances under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Firearms Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to complex federal cases. We understand the high stakes of a machine gun charge and the intricate federal procedures. Our approach is direct and focused on the details of your case, from the initial investigation through trial or negotiation.
Case Results and Defense Strategy
While specific Washington County machine gun results are not listed, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In federal firearms cases, our defense strategies may include challenging the search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment, disputing the firearm’s classification as a “machine gun,” negotiating for reduced charges, or pursuing pretrial diversion programs where applicable. For example, our team, including attorneys like Mr. Sris with deep federal court experience, has successfully argued for the suppression of illegally obtained evidence, skilled to dismissed charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Washington County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838) 292-0003
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients facing federal charges in Washington County. We are accessible to residents of Fort Edward, Hudson Falls, Greenwich, Cambridge, Granville, Salem, Whitehall, and Kingsbury. If you need a machine gun offense lawyer near me Washington County, we provide 24/7 phone access. As an affordable machine gun offense lawyer Washington County option, we offer clear fee structures and work diligently to protect your future.
FAQs: Machine Gun Charges in Washington County, NY
What is considered a “machine gun” under federal law?
Yes. Federal law defines a machine gun as any firearm that can fire more than one round per trigger pull. This includes conversion kits, certain auto-sears, and even some AR-15 components if they are designed for automatic fire.
Can I legally own a pre-1986 machine gun?
It depends. Ownership is restricted to firearms registered in the National Firearms Registry before May 19, 1986. Transfer requires an extensive ATF background check, payment of a $200 tax stamp, and approval from your local Chief Law Enforcement Officer (CLEO). Possession without this registration is a federal crime.
What should I do if the ATF contacts me?
No. Do not speak to agents without an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you.
What are the possible defenses to a machine gun charge?
Defenses may include unlawful search and seizure, lack of knowledge or intent (you didn’t know it was a machine gun), entrapment, challenging the firearm’s functionality, or proving the weapon was not operable. The right defense depends entirely on the facts of your case.
Is there a mandatory minimum sentence?
Yes. For simple possession of a machine gun, federal law mandates a minimum prison sentence. If the machine gun is used in a crime of violence or drug trafficking, the mandatory minimums increase dramatically, often to 30 years or life.
Related Legal Help in Washington County
If you are facing other charges, our firm can help. We also handle state criminal defense in Washington County and other federal crimes. For a complete overview of our services, visit our New York criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.