Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer Gloucester County — Federal Defense

A federal charge for the use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) in Gloucester County, NJ, carries severe mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strategic defense against these charges, which are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.

On this page

Federal Statute for Firearm Use in a Crime of Violence

The primary federal statute governing these charges is 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). This law imposes mandatory, consecutive prison terms for using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a federal crime of violence or drug trafficking crime. The penalties escalate dramatically for second or subsequent convictions and for brandishing or discharging the firearm. A “crime of violence” is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(3) and includes offenses that have as an element the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force.

Last verified: March 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | Federal statutes are maintained by the U.S. Government Publishing Office.

Official Legal Resources

For the exact language of the federal statute, review 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (official U.S. Code). For local federal court procedures and rules, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.

Defending a 924c Charge in Gloucester County

Defending against a use of a firearm in a crime of violence charge requires attacking both the underlying predicate crime and the firearm nexus. In cases originating from Gloucester County, federal prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey (Camden Division) will pursue these charges aggressively. A key defense strategy often involves challenging whether the underlying offense qualifies as a “crime of violence” under the current legal definition, which has been narrowed by recent Supreme Court decisions. Another critical line of defense is to argue that the firearm was not used “in furtherance” of the crime, but was merely present.

Initial Investigation & Arrest: The case typically begins with an investigation by the FBI, ATF, or a joint task force, skilled to a federal arrest or indictment.
Initial Appearance & Detention Hearing: You will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Your attorney will argue for your release pending trial, which is challenging in firearm cases.
Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your defense lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the indictment, or seek dismissal of the 924(c) count based on legal defects.
Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases end in a plea agreement. Your attorney will negotiate to reduce charges or secure a favorable sentencing recommendation. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to 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.

Potential Penalties for a Federal Firearm Charge

In federal court for Gloucester County, a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries severe mandatory prison terms that increase based on the firearm’s use and prior convictions.

Firearm Circumstance	Mandatory Minimum Sentence	Notes
First Offense (Basic)	5 years	Must be served consecutively to the sentence for the underlying crime.
Brandishing the Firearm	7 years	Consecutive mandatory minimum.
Discharging the Firearm	10 years	Consecutive mandatory minimum.
Second or Subsequent 924(c) Conviction	25 years	Must be served consecutively to all other sentences, including the first 924(c) count.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Court

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the high-stakes nature of federal firearm charges and the specific procedures of the District of New Jersey. Mr. Sris provides strategic oversight on federal criminal defense matters, accepting only a limited number of cases to ensure deep, strategic involvement. His background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in cases involving evidence.

Mr. Sris
Owner & CEO, Managing Attorney
Bar Admissions: Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, New York
Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997. He provides strategic oversight on federal criminal defense cases, including those involving firearm charges and enhancements. His multi-state practice and strategic approach are focused on achieving a favorable outcome for clients facing severe federal penalties.

Case Results & Client Advocacy

Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in challenging cases. While specific results for firearm charges in Gloucester County are not listed here, our approach is built on thorough case investigation, aggressive motion practice, and skilled negotiation. We work to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek reductions or dismissals where possible.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Local Federal Defense for Gloucester County Residents

If you are under federal investigation or charged with a crime in Gloucester County, you need a lawyer familiar with the local federal system. Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout the state, including those facing charges in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. We represent clients from Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, Monroe Township, Mantua, West Deptford, Glassboro, Woolwich, Harrison Township, and Pitman.

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) 651-9900
By appointment only.

24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We are a federal criminal defense and gun enhancement defense lawyer Gloucester County residents can consult for immediate help.

FAQs: Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Charges

What is a “crime of violence” under federal law 924(c)?

It depends. Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(3), a crime of violence is a felony that either has as an element the use of physical force (the elements clause) or, under a now-limited definition, involves a substantial risk that physical force may be used. Defense attorneys often challenge whether the underlying offense meets this legal definition.

Can the mandatory minimum sentence for a 924c charge be reduced?

Yes, but only under specific circumstances. The mandatory minimum can be avoided if the charge is dismissed or you are acquitted at trial. It may also be reduced if you provide “substantial assistance” to the government in prosecuting another person, which requires a motion from the U.S. Attorney.

What is the difference between a 924c charge and a state gun charge?

A 924c charge is a federal offense prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice in federal court, with penalties set by Congress. A state gun charge is prosecuted by county or state prosecutors under New Jersey law in state court. The federal penalties are often more severe due to mandatory minimums.

Do I need a specific lawyer for a federal gun charge in Gloucester County?

Yes. Federal criminal procedure and sentencing are vastly different from state court. You need a defense attorney experienced in federal practice and familiar with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey and the local U.S. Attorney’s Office to handle a 924c charge defense effectively.

What should I do if I am under federal investigation for a firearm offense?

Immediately exercise your right to remain silent and contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Early legal intervention can sometimes prevent charges from being filed or influence the direction of the investigation.

Related Legal Resources

If you are facing federal charges, understanding the full scope of your situation is important. You may also want to learn about federal criminal defense in New Jersey. For charges originating in other areas, see our pages for a federal criminal lawyer Camden County or a federal criminal lawyer Burlington County. For other legal issues in Gloucester County, consider a criminal defense lawyer Gloucester County or an immigration lawyer Gloucester County.

Last verified: March 2026. Federal laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding a use of a firearm in a crime of violence charge.