Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Rappahannock County, VA
A federal charge for use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) in Rappahannock County carries severe mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these complex federal cases. Our team includes former prosecutors with experience in the Eastern District of Virginia. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Federal Statute for Use of a Firearm in a Crime of Violence
The primary federal statute for these charges is 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). This law imposes consecutive mandatory minimum prison sentences for using, carrying, or possessing a firearm during and in relation to a federal crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime. The penalties escalate sharply for subsequent convictions and for specific firearm types, such as machineguns or destructive devices.
Last verified: March 2026 | Federal District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We handle cases investigated by federal agencies like the ATF, FBI, and DEA, which are common in firearm-related offenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal firearm statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 924 (Legal Information Institute). For information on federal court procedures in Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Defending a 924c Charge in Rappahannock County
Federal firearm charges in Rappahannock County are typically prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. A conviction for use of a firearm in a crime of violence triggers a mandatory prison sentence that must run consecutively to any sentence for the underlying crime. The definition of a “crime of violence” is a frequent point of legal challenge, and successful defense often hinges on sophisticated motion practice to contest the classification of the predicate offense.
- Initial Investigation & Arrest: A case typically begins with an investigation by a federal agency (ATF, FBI). You will be arrested on a federal warrant and have an initial appearance before a magistrate judge.
- Detention Hearing: The government will often seek to detain you without bond. We argue for pretrial release based on ties to the community and lack of flight risk.
- Indictment & Arraignment: A grand jury issues an indictment. At arraignment, you enter a plea of not guilty, and the court sets a schedule for motions and discovery.
- Motion Practice: This is a critical phase. We file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the “crime of violence” designation, or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: We engage with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to seek a favorable plea agreement. If no agreement is reached, we prepare for a jury trial in federal court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, we advocate at sentencing to minimize the term, arguing for downward departures or variances from the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Penalties for Federal Firearm Charges
In Rappahannock County, a conviction for use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years in federal prison for a first offense, which must be served consecutively to the sentence for the underlying crime.
| Offense | Classification | Mandatory Minimum Incarceration | Fine | Consecutive Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First 924(c) Conviction | Federal Felony | 5 years | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
| Subsequent 924(c) Conviction | Federal Felony | 25 years | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
| Brandishing a Firearm | Federal Felony | 7 years | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
| Discharging a Firearm | Federal Felony | 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Yes |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Federal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys include former prosecutors with a deep understanding of federal procedure and the strategies employed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. We focus on building a defense that challenges the government’s evidence and legal theories from the outset, particularly in complex cases involving a gun enhancement defense lawyer Rappahannock County clients may require.
Our secondary attorney on federal cases is Matthew Greene, who brings over 30 years of defense experience, including former death penalty certification and extensive work on complex criminal matters.
Contact Our Federal Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location — 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients facing federal charges in Rappahannock County. We are accessible via major highways and offer 24/7 phone consultations. We provide representation for a federal criminal defense lawyer near Rappahannock County and the communities of Washington, Sperryville, and Flint Hill. Meetings are by appointment only.
Federal Firearm Charge FAQs
What is a 924c charge?
Yes. A 924c charge refers to 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which makes it a separate federal crime to use or carry a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime. It carries mandatory prison time.
What does “use of a firearm in a crime of violence” mean?
It depends. The law requires the government to prove the firearm was actively employed in the crime, not merely present. The definition of a “crime of violence” is also legally specific and often contested by a use of a firearm in crime of violence lawyer Rappahannock County residents hire.
Are the sentences for these charges mandatory?
Yes. Conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries mandatory minimum prison sentences (e.g., 5, 7, 10, or 25 years) that must run consecutively to any other sentence. Judges have very limited discretion to reduce them.
Can a 924c charge be dropped or reduced?
It depends. While the charge itself has a mandatory penalty, a skilled 924c charge defense lawyer Rappahannock County clients trust can negotiate with prosecutors to drop the 924(c) count in exchange for a plea to other charges or file motions that may lead to the charge being dismissed by the court.
What is the difference between state and federal gun charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal court, involve federal agencies, and typically carry longer sentences with no parole. State charges are handled by local Commonwealth’s Attorneys. A single act can sometimes lead to charges in both systems.
What should I do if I’m under federal investigation for a gun crime?
Immediately contact a federal defense attorney. Do not speak to investigators without counsel. An attorney can intervene during the investigation phase, potentially preventing charges or shaping the case before an indictment is filed.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing related charges, you may need a Rappahannock County criminal defense lawyer. For an overview of our federal practice, visit our Virginia federal criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Albemarle County.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance on use of a firearm in crime of violence lawyer Rappahannock County cases.