Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Sussex County, NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
A federal charge for the use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) in Sussex County, NJ, carries severe mandatory minimum sentences. This charge is often a gun enhancement added to other federal crimes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these federal cases.
Federal Statute for Use of a Firearm in a Crime of Violence
The federal law governing this charge is 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). This statute imposes mandatory prison sentences for anyone who uses, carries, or possesses a firearm in furtherance of a federal crime of violence or drug trafficking crime. The penalties are severe and must be served consecutively to any sentence for the underlying crime.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | 18 U.S.C. § 924 (official U.S. Code)
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the high stakes of federal court. A 924c charge defense lawyer Sussex County must handle federal procedures and sentencing guidelines.
Official Government Resources
Defense Strategy for a 924c Charge in Sussex County
Defending against a use of a firearm in a crime of violence charge requires a detailed, case-specific approach. The prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. A skilled gun enhancement defense lawyer Sussex County will challenge the government’s case on multiple fronts.
- Initial Case Review: We analyze all evidence, including search warrants, witness statements, and forensic reports, to identify weaknesses in the government’s case.
- Challenge the “Crime of Violence”: We examine whether the underlying offense legally qualifies as a “crime of violence” under the complex definitions in federal law.
- Suppress Evidence: If the firearm was discovered through an unlawful search or seizure, we file motions to suppress that evidence, which can cripple the prosecution.
- Negotiate with Prosecutors: We engage with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to seek a reduction or dismissal of the 924(c) charge in exchange for a plea to other counts.
- Trial Preparation: If a fair plea cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial, focusing on creating reasonable doubt about your involvement or intent.
- Sentencing Advocacy: If convicted, we present mitigating factors to argue for the most lenient sentence possible under the mandatory minimums.
Potential Penalties for a Federal Firearm Charge
In federal court, a conviction for use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for a first offense, which must run consecutively to any other sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Mandatory Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First § 924(c) Conviction | Federal Felony | 5 years minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture of firearm; felony record |
| § 924(c) with Brandishing | Federal Felony | 7 years minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture; enhanced sentencing |
| § 924(c) with Discharge | Federal Felony | 10 years minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture; most severe enhancement |
| Second or Subsequent § 924(c) Conviction | Federal Felony | 25 years minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture; effectively a life sentence |
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. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. We handle federal cases, including those involving serious firearm charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on federal criminal defense matters. His background provides a strategic advantage in building a defense against a use of a firearm in a crime of violence charge.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in contested cases. While every case is unique, our approach is thorough and strategic. We focus on the specific facts of your case to build the strongest possible defense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Sussex County Federal Firearm Charge Lawyer
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New Jersey location represents clients in Sussex County and throughout the state. We serve communities including Newton, Sparta, Vernon, Franklin, Hamburg, Andover, Stanhope, and Hopatcong. If you are facing a federal firearm charge, contact a use of a firearm in crime of violence lawyer Sussex County as early as possible.
Federal Firearm Charge FAQs
What is a “crime of violence” under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)?
It depends. The definition is demanding and legal. Generally, it is a felony that involves a substantial risk that physical force may be used. Courts often analyze the elements of the underlying crime. A skilled lawyer can argue your specific charge does not meet this definition.
Can the mandatory sentence for a 924c charge be reduced?
Yes, but only in limited ways. The judge cannot go below the mandatory minimum. Reduction may come from the prosecutor dismissing the charge via a plea deal, or from a successful appeal. A 924c charge defense lawyer Sussex County works to have the charge dropped or to secure a favorable plea agreement that avoids it.
What is the difference between a state and federal gun charge?
Federal charges are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal court, often for crimes affecting interstate commerce or involving federal agencies. Penalties, especially mandatory minimums under § 924(c), are typically more severe than state charges. Procedures and rules of evidence also differ significantly.
What should I do if I am under federal investigation for a firearm offense?
Do not speak to investigators. Promptly contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you. A lawyer can advise you on your rights, interact with investigators on your behalf, and work to prevent charges from being filed.
How can a gun enhancement defense lawyer Sussex County help me?
A focused lawyer challenges the evidence, fights the “crime of violence” classification, negotiates with federal prosecutors, and prepares a strong trial defense. Their goal is to get the enhancement dropped or to minimize its impact on your overall sentence.
Internal Resources
- New Jersey Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
- Federal Criminal Lawyer Bergen County
- Sussex County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Last verified: April 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.
Sussex County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on use of a firearm in crime of violence cases in New Jersey explains each stage.
If your case reaches beyond Sussex County, our page on use of a firearm in crime of violence cases across Virginia sets out what to look for at each stage.
Your case in Sussex County, New Jersey
Sexual-offense charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Sussex County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Sussex Vicinage (10th Vicinage), 43-47 High Street, Newton, NJ 07860, telephone (973) 579-0933, 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 Sussex 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: Sussex County NJ lawyers directory · Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer Middlesex · Essex County NJ Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer.