Camden County Possession of Firearms in Drug Trafficking Crime Lawyer
Possession of firearms in drug trafficking crime is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) with severe mandatory minimum sentences. In Camden County, these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these combined charges, which can result in consecutive prison terms.
Federal Law on Possession of Firearms in Drug Trafficking Crime
Possession of firearms in drug trafficking crime is a distinct federal charge that applies when a firearm is used, carried, or possessed in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime or a crime of violence. The statute, 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), imposes mandatory minimum prison sentences that must run consecutively to any sentence for the underlying drug trafficking offense. This means the penalty for the gun charge is added on top of the penalty for the drug crime.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a deep understanding of federal prosecution tactics to your defense. Our attorneys analyze the government’s evidence to challenge the important link between the firearm and the alleged drug trafficking activity.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 924 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on the federal court handling these cases in New Jersey, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Defense Strategy for Camden County Federal Cases
In Camden County, federal drug and gun cases often originate from investigations by the DEA, FBI, or ATF. A successful defense requires attacking the government’s ability to prove two key elements: that a drug trafficking crime occurred, and that the firearm was possessed “in furtherance of” that crime. Mere possession is not enough; the prosecution must show a specific nexus.
- Initial Case Assessment: Immediately after arrest or upon learning of an investigation, our team reviews all known facts and charges to identify weaknesses in the government’s case.
- Investigation & Discovery: We file for full discovery, scrutinizing search warrant affidavits, chain of custody for evidence, and law enforcement reports for constitutional violations.
- Motion Practice: We file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence obtained from illegal searches or seizures, which can be case-dispositive.
- Negotiation Strategy: We engage with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to explore possibilities for charge reduction, such as dropping the § 924(c) count in exchange for a plea to the underlying drug charge.
- Trial Preparation: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, we build a trial defense focused on creating reasonable doubt about the connection between the firearm and drug activity.
- Sentencing Mitigation: Should a conviction occur, we present compelling mitigation evidence to argue for a sentence at the low end of the guideline range.
Potential Penalties for Federal Drug and Gun Charges
In Camden County federal court, possession of firearms in drug trafficking crime under § 924(c) carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison for a first offense, which must run consecutively to the sentence for the drug crime. Penalties escalate sharply for subsequent convictions or specific firearm types.
| Offense | Firearm Type | Mandatory Minimum | Maximum | Consecutive? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First § 924(c) Conviction | Any firearm | 5 years | Life | Yes |
| Subsequent § 924(c) Conviction | Any firearm | 25 years | Life | Yes |
| Brandishing a Firearm | Any firearm | 7 years | Life | Yes |
| Discharging a Firearm | Any firearm | 10 years | Life | Yes |
| Possession of a “Short-Barreled” Firearm | Shotgun, Rifle | 10 years | Life | Yes |
| Possession of a Machine Gun / Destructive Device | Automatic, Explosive | 30 years | Life | Yes |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our defense team includes former prosecutors who understand the strategies used by the government. We have a track record of handling federal cases, including those involving combined drug and gun charge defense lawyer Camden County needs. We approach each case with a detailed, aggressive strategy focused on protecting your rights and freedom.
Our Approach to Federal Drug and Gun Cases
Our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases. While specific results depend on unique facts, our approach is thorough. We immediately work to secure our client’s release, conduct a independent investigation, file aggressive pre-trial motions, and explore all avenues for case resolution, from negotiation to trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Camden County Federal Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing federal charges in Camden County. We are accessible via I-76, Route 70, the NJ Turnpike, and the PATCO Speedline. If you need a possession of firearms in drug trafficking crime lawyer Camden County trusts, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 200-6648
By appointment only.
Serving: Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester Township, Voorhees, Haddonfield, Collingswood, Pennsauken, Winslow, Haddon Township, Berlin, Lindenwold, and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “in furtherance of” mean in a § 924(c) charge?
It depends. The government must prove the firearm helped advance or promote the drug crime. It is not enough that a gun was merely present. Our defense often focuses on creating reasonable doubt about this specific connection, which is a common weakness in the prosecution’s case.
Can state and federal charges be filed for the same drug and gun incident?
Yes. Under the doctrine of “dual sovereignty,” both New Jersey state authorities and the federal government can prosecute you for the same conduct if it violates both state and federal laws. This is a critical reason to hire an attorney experienced in both systems.
What is the difference between “use” and “carry” under § 924(c)?
“Use” typically means active employment of the firearm. “Carry” implies transportation, such as having a gun on your person or in a vehicle. “Possession” can be actual or constructive, meaning the firearm was within your control. The specific language in the indictment impacts the government’s burden of proof.
Are there any defenses to a § 924(c) charge?
Yes. Defenses can include challenging the legality of the search that found the gun, arguing the firearm was not connected to drug activity, proving you lacked knowledge of the firearm’s presence, or showing that the underlying drug crime is invalid. An experienced armed drug trafficking lawyer Camden County relies on will identify the best defense strategy.
What happens at a federal detention hearing in Camden?
After a federal arrest, a detention hearing is held before a U.S. Magistrate Judge to determine if you will be released pending trial. The judge considers flight risk, danger to the community, and the strength of the case. Having a lawyer argue effectively at this hearing is important to securing pre-trial release.
Can a § 924(c) conviction be expunged?
No. Federal convictions, including those under § 924(c), generally cannot be expunged or sealed. A conviction will remain on your permanent record. This underscores the immense importance of mounting the strongest possible defense from the outset with a skilled drug and gun charge defense lawyer Camden County.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing federal charges in Camden County, you may also need information on Federal Criminal Defense in Camden County. For broader context, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Burlington County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. The information on this page is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change. For current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
If your case reaches beyond Camden County, our page on possession of firearms in drug trafficking crime charges across New Jersey sets out what to look for at each stage.
Your case in Camden County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Camden County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage (1st Vicinage), 101 South Fifth Street, Camden, NJ 08103, telephone (856) 379-2200, 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 N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2 (aggravated sexual assault) within the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Camden 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: Camden County NJ lawyers directory · Possession of Firearms in Drug Lawyer Bergen County · Possession of Firearms in Drug Lawyer Middlesex County · Possession of Firearms in Drug Lawyer Hudson County.