Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Carroll County, MD
A charge for the use of a firearm in a crime of violence in Carroll County is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) with mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these 924c charges and gun enhancements.
Federal Statute for Firearm Use in a Crime of Violence
The primary federal statute governing the use of a firearm in a crime of violence is 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). This law imposes severe, consecutive penalties for using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in connection with a federal crime of violence or drug trafficking crime. The statute is complex, with penalties escalating based on the type of firearm, whether it was brandished or discharged, and prior convictions.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | Maryland legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, refer to 18 U.S.C. § 924 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
Defending a 924c Charge in Carroll County
Defending a 924c charge requires challenging both the underlying “crime of violence” and the firearm nexus. In the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, which handles Carroll County federal cases, prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office aggressively pursue these charges. A key defense strategy often involves filing a motion to dismiss if the underlying offense does not legally qualify as a “crime of violence” under the statute’s definitions, which have been subject to significant legal debate and narrowing by appellate courts.
- Initial Arrest & Federal Charges: The case is typically investigated by federal agencies (FBI, ATF, DEA) and presented to a grand jury for indictment.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: You will be arraigned in U.S. District Court. Your attorney will argue for pretrial release or favorable bail conditions.
- Pretrial Motions & Discovery: Your defense lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the “crime of violence” designation, and obtain all discovery from the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The vast majority of federal cases resolve by plea. Your attorney will negotiate to reduce or drop the 924(c) charge. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines. A 924(c) conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence that must run consecutively to any other sentence.
Penalties for a Federal Gun Enhancement
In federal court, a conviction for use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries severe mandatory prison terms that must be served consecutively to the sentence for the underlying crime.
| Firearm Circumstance | Mandatory Minimum | Maximum | Consecutive? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Possessing a firearm | 5 years | Life | Yes |
| Brandishing a firearm | 7 years | Life | Yes |
| Discharging a firearm | 10 years | Life | Yes |
| Second or subsequent 924(c) conviction | 25 years | Life | Yes |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Federal Gun Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of federal prosecutions and the specific strategies required to defend against a 924c charge. Our team includes attorneys who handle complex federal criminal defense across multiple jurisdictions.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results for use of a firearm in a crime of violence cases in Carroll County are not listed, our firm-wide approach is grounded in aggressive defense. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results. We focus on challenging the prosecution’s evidence, filing substantive pretrial motions, and negotiating for reduced charges when possible.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Carroll County Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers
Our Maryland location serves clients facing federal charges in Carroll County. We are accessible from Westminster, Sykesville, Eldersburg, and surrounding areas via Route 140, Route 97, and other major highways.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
FAQs: Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Charges
What is a “924c charge” in Maryland?
Yes. A “924c charge” refers to a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), the federal law that penalizes using, carrying, or possessing a firearm during a crime of violence or drug trafficking. It is not a state charge but a federal one prosecuted in U.S. District Court.
What does a gun enhancement defense lawyer do in a federal case?
A gun enhancement defense lawyer challenges the mandatory sentence add-ons under laws like § 924(c). They attack the legal definition of the underlying “crime of violence,” file motions to suppress firearm evidence, and negotiate with federal prosecutors to drop the enhancement, which can drastically reduce a potential prison sentence.
Can a 924c charge be dropped?
It depends. A 924c charge can be dropped if the underlying crime is dismissed, if the firearm evidence is suppressed, or if a plea agreement is reached where the defendant pleads to other charges in exchange for the government dismissing the 924(c) count. Success often hinges on pretrial motions.
What is the mandatory minimum for a first-time 924(c) offense?
The mandatory minimum for a first-time § 924(c) offense is 5 years in federal prison if the firearm was simply possessed. This sentence must run consecutively (back-to-back) with any sentence for the underlying crime, skilled to a much longer total incarceration period.
How is a “crime of violence” defined for a 924c charge?
Under § 924(c), a “crime of violence” is a felony that has as an element the use of physical force (the “elements clause”) or is one of several enumerated offenses like robbery or carjacking. This definition has been narrowed by recent Supreme Court decisions, creating potential defense arguments.
For more information on related defenses, see our pages on Maryland Criminal Defense or Federal Criminal Lawyer in Montgomery County. If you are also dealing with state-level charges, our Carroll County DUI Lawyer can assist.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.