Possession Of Firearm In Drug Trafficking Crime Lawyer Maryland — Federal Defense
A federal charge for possession of a firearm in a drug trafficking crime under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) in Maryland carries a mandatory minimum 5-year prison sentence consecutive to any drug sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these serious federal charges. Our team includes former prosecutors with experience in Maryland’s federal courts. Contact us for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland District Court — Southern Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
Federal Statute for Possession of a Firearm in a Drug Trafficking Crime
In Maryland, the charge for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is prosecuted federally under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). This is not a state charge. The law imposes severe, mandatory penalties that run consecutively to any sentence for the underlying drug crime. A conviction requires the government to prove you possessed the firearm and that you did so in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Defending against this charge requires a lawyer who understands federal court procedures, sentencing guidelines, and potential constitutional challenges. A Possession Of Firearm In Drug Trafficking Crime Lawyer Maryland from our firm can analyze the evidence against you.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the federal statute, review 18 U.S.C. § 924 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures in Maryland, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or indictment.
- Your lawyer will file motions to challenge evidence and the legal basis for the charge.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to potentially reduce or drop the 924(c) count.
- Prepare for trial, focusing on separating the firearm possession from the drug crime.
- If convicted, advocate for the most favorable sentencing outcome under the guidelines.
In Maryland federal court, a conviction for possession of a firearm in a drug trafficking crime under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) mandates a 5-year prison term, consecutive to the drug sentence, with higher penalties for brandishing or discharging the firearm.
| Offense | Classification | Mandatory Incarceration | Fine | Consecutive Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Firearm in Drug Trafficking Crime | Federal Felony | 5 years minimum | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
| Brandishing Firearm | Federal Felony | 7 years minimum | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
| Discharging Firearm | Federal Felony | 10 years minimum | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
| Second or Subsequent Conviction | Federal Felony | 25 years minimum | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Defense Experience in Federal Court
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands government tactics. We have a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results. Our approach is to build a defense that challenges the prosecution’s ability to link the firearm directly to the drug crime, a key element under § 924(c).
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex criminal matters. While every case is unique, our strategic focus includes motion practice to suppress evidence, challenging the legality of searches, and negotiating with prosecutors to reduce charges. Mr. Sris, our firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on serious federal matters, including those involving possession firearm crime Maryland narcotics trafficking lawyer defenses. We work to protect your rights at every stage.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
Our Rockville location serves Southern Maryland and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings by appointment only. If you need a Drug Trafficking Attorney Possession Firearm Crime Maryland, contact us for a confidential case evaluation.
FAQs: Firearm in Drug Trafficking Crime Charges in Maryland
Is possession of a firearm in a drug crime a state or federal charge in Maryland?
It is almost always a federal charge. Maryland prosecutors typically refer cases involving firearms and drug trafficking to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecution under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which carries stricter mandatory penalties.
What does the government have to prove for a 924(c) conviction?
The government must prove two things beyond a reasonable doubt: that you committed a drug trafficking crime, and that you possessed a firearm in furtherance of that specific crime. Mere possession at the same time is not enough; they must show a direct connection.
What are the penalties for a 924(c) conviction?
A first conviction mandates a 5-year prison sentence, served consecutively to the sentence for the drug crime. Penalties increase to 7 years if the firearm was brandished, 10 years if discharged, and 25 years for a second or subsequent conviction.
Can you beat a 924(c) charge?
Yes, defenses exist. A skilled lawyer can challenge the “in furtherance of” link, file motions to suppress the firearm evidence if it was found illegally, or argue for dismissal of the underlying drug charge, which would nullify the 924(c) count.
Why do I need a lawyer experienced in federal court?
Federal procedures, evidence rules, and sentencing guidelines are complex and differ significantly from state court. An attorney familiar with the District of Maryland and federal practice is essential to handle the system and build an effective defense against these severe charges.
A possession of firearm in drug trafficking crime case is one part of drug offences work, and our page on controlled substance importation lawyer Maryland covers the wider process.