New Kent County Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Possession or use of a machine gun in New Kent County is a serious felony under federal and Virginia law, carrying severe penalties. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these charges. If you are facing an automatic weapon charge, contact our New Kent County machine gun possession lawyer for immediate help. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Understanding Virginia and Federal Machine Gun Laws
Charges for possession or use of a machine gun in New Kent County are prosecuted under both Virginia state law and federal statutes. Virginia law strictly prohibits the possession, manufacture, sale, or transfer of any machine gun, defined as any weapon that shoots automatically more than one shot without manual reloading by a single function of the trigger. This includes parts designed to convert a weapon into a machine gun. The federal National Firearms Act (NFA) imposes its own stringent regulations and taxes on these weapons.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia code, see Va. Code § 18.2-288 (official Virginia General Assembly). For New Kent County court information, visit the New Kent County Circuit Court website.
Local Defense Strategy for New Kent County
Defending a possession or use of a machine gun charge requires immediate action. In New Kent County, these cases often involve coordination between local and federal authorities. An experienced automatic weapon charge defense lawyer New Kent County must scrutinize the legality of the search and seizure, the weapon’s classification, and your intent. Early intervention is critical to challenge evidence before formal charges are solidified.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Case Assessment: Your lawyer will review all charges, evidence, and the circumstances of the arrest.
- Investigation: We will investigate the search warrant’s validity, the weapon’s functionality, and chain of custody.
- Strategy Development: Build a defense focusing on lack of knowledge, unlawful search, or improper weapon classification.
- Negotiation or Trial: Work to have charges reduced or dismissed, or prepare a vigorous trial defense.
Potential Penalties for Machine Gun Charges
In New Kent County, possession or use of a machine gun is a Class 4 felony, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. Federal charges carry even harsher penalties.
| Charge | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of a Machine Gun (VA) | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | Forfeiture of weapon, permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights. |
| Use of a Machine Gun in Crime (VA) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Mandatory minimum sentences apply. |
| Federal NFA Violation | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Asset forfeiture, supervised release. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of federal and state weapon charges and provide a focused, aggressive defense.
Case Results for Firearm Charges
Our firm has successfully defended clients against serious weapon charges. In one case, we secured the dismissal of felony possession charges after proving an unlawful search. In another, we negotiated a reduction from a felony to a misdemeanor for a client facing a first-time weapon offense. Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with decades of experience, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Kent County Machine Gun Charge Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location is strategically positioned to serve New Kent County, accessible via I-64. If you need a possession or use of a machine gun lawyer near New Kent County or the surrounding communities of Quinton, Providence Forge, or Bottoms Bridge, we are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804) 201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a “machine gun” under Virginia law?
Yes. Virginia law defines a machine gun as any weapon that shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot automatically more than one shot by a single function of the trigger. This includes parts or conversion kits, like a “Glock switch,” designed to convert a semi-automatic weapon.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the weapon was automatic?
It depends. Knowledge is often a key element the prosecution must prove. A strong defense may argue you lacked knowledge the weapon was fully automatic or that a conversion device was installed. An experienced machine gun possession lawyer New Kent County can challenge the intent element of the charge.
Are state or federal charges more serious for machine gun possession?
Both are extremely serious. Federal charges often carry longer mandatory sentences and are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys with vast resources. Virginia charges are felonies with lengthy prison terms. You need a lawyer experienced in both state and federal courts to handle the interplay between the two systems.
What should I do if I’m arrested for a machine gun charge?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not answer questions or make statements. Second, contact a criminal defense firm like ours that has experience with automatic weapon charges. The early stages of the case are critical for preserving rights and building a defense.
What are the possible defenses to a machine gun charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search (Fourth Amendment violation), arguing the weapon does not meet the legal definition of a machine gun, proving lack of knowledge or possession, or showing the evidence was mishandled. Each case requires a unique strategy developed by your automatic weapon charge defense lawyer New Kent County.