Material Support To Terrorists Lawyer New Kent Virginia — Federal Defense
Material support to terrorists charges under 18 U.S.C. § 2339A/B are prosecuted federally, not in New Kent County state courts. These are serious federal felonies with severe penalties. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these complex federal allegations. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation by appointment.
Federal Law on Material Support to Terrorists
Federal law prohibits providing material support or resources to foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) or knowing that such support will be used for terrorist acts. The statutes are 18 U.S.C. § 2339A and 18 U.S.C. § 2339B. These laws are broad and can encompass financial transactions, training, experienced advice, personnel, lodging, or other physical assets. Charges are brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, often following investigations by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), or Joint Terrorism Task Forces (JTTF).
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal District Court | U.S. Code.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact text of the federal statutes, refer to the official U.S. Code: 18 U.S.C. § 2339A and 18 U.S.C. § 2339B. For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Defense Strategy and Local Federal Procedure
Defending against material support charges requires a deep understanding of federal criminal procedure, constitutional challenges, and complex evidence. The prosecution must prove you knowingly provided support to a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) or for terrorist activities. A common defense involves challenging the “knowledge” element or arguing the support was intended for legitimate humanitarian aid. In the Eastern District of Virginia, where New Kent County residents would be prosecuted, cases move quickly under the “Rocket Docket” reputation.
- Initial Investigation/Arrest: Contact a federal criminal attorney immediately if you are contacted by federal agents or arrested. Do not speak to investigators without counsel.
- Initial Appearance & Detention Hearing: You will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Your lawyer will argue for your release on bond or conditions.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The prosecution presents evidence to a grand jury to secure a formal indictment.
- Arraignment & Plea: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your defense lawyer will review all evidence and file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case will proceed to a federal jury trial or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Material Support Charges
In federal court, material support to terrorists charges under 18 U.S.C. § 2339A/B carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.
| Offense (U.S. Code) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 U.S.C. § 2339A (Providing material support for terrorist acts) | Federal Felony | Up to 15 years per count; up to life if death results | Substantial fines | Asset forfeiture, permanent federal record, designation as a terrorist, immigration consequences. |
| 18 U.S.C. § 2339B (Providing material support to designated FTOs) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years per count; up to life if death results | Substantial fines | Same as above; strict liability aspects make defense more complex. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Federal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm handles complex federal criminal defense matters. Our approach in federal cases involves meticulous review of discovery, challenging the government’s evidence on constitutional grounds, and leveraging our understanding of federal sentencing guidelines. We provide full representation from the investigative stage through trial or negotiation.
For federal cases, our team includes attorney Matthew Greene, who has over 30 years of experience and is certified for death penalty cases. His extensive background is critical for building a strong defense against the most serious federal allegations.
Local Access for New Kent County Residents
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)201-9009 | Local: (804) 977-0767
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients from New Kent County facing federal charges. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Material Support To Terrorists Lawyer New Kent Virginia — FAQs
What does “material support” to terrorists mean under federal law?
It means providing any property, tangible or intangible, or service to a designated foreign terrorist organization or for use in terrorist activities. This includes money, training, lodging, personnel, and experienced advice.
Do I need a criminal attorney for a federal material support charge?
Yes, absolutely. You need a federal criminal defense lawyer. These charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice with vast resources. A skilled criminal attorney is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and handle the complex federal court system.
What court hears material support cases for someone in New Kent County?
These cases are heard in U.S. District Court, not New Kent County courts. New Kent County residents would typically be prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia, which has courthouses in Richmond, Alexandria, or Norfolk.
What are the main defenses against material support charges?
Key defenses include lack of knowledge that the recipient was a terrorist organization, lack of intent to further terrorist activity, entrapment, and challenging the constitutionality of the statute or the methods used to gather evidence. A defense lawyer will analyze all aspects of the case.
Can I get a public defender for a federal material support case?
It depends. You may qualify for a court-appointed lawyer (CJA panel attorney) if you cannot afford to hire one. The court will assess your financial eligibility. However, given the severity and complexity, many defendants seek experienced private criminal court lawyer representation.
What should I do if I am contacted by the FBI about this?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Exercising these rights cannot be held against you and is the most important step you can take.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other federal or state criminal charges, our firm also provides defense for federal crimes and state criminal charges in Virginia.
Locality Resources: For defense against other serious charges in the region, see our pages for Henrico County criminal defense and Chesterfield County criminal defense.
State Hub: Learn more about our federal defense practice across Virginia on our Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding material support to terrorists charges.