Possession of an unregistered firearm is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o), carrying severe penalties including up to 10 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Roanoke County, Virginia. The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia handles these cases.
Possession of an Unregistered Firearm Lawyer in Roanoke County, Virginia
Understanding Possession of an Unregistered Firearm Under Federal Law
Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o), it is unlawful for any person to possess a machinegun that was not registered to that person in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. This statute is part of the National Firearms Act (NFA), which regulates certain firearms including machineguns, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and silencers. A violation of this statute is a felony under federal law, carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, fines, and supervised release. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia prosecutes these cases in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, which has a divisional office in Roanoke at 210 Franklin Rd SW, Roanoke, VA 24011. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defending federal firearms charges.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 922 (Cornell LII)
Official Legal References
For the full text of the federal statute governing possession of an unregistered firearm, see 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (U.S. Department of Justice — official site).
For information on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, including local rules and procedures, visit U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia (official site).
Insider Perspective on Federal Firearms Cases in Roanoke County
In the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue maximum penalties for NFA violations. We have observed that federal agents from the ATF and FBI conduct thorough investigations before filing charges.
Federal cases move quickly under the Speedy Trial Act, requiring indictment within 30 days of arrest and trial within 70 days of indictment.
Early intervention by an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence and do not alter or destroy any records.
- Contact an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Prepare for your initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge.
- Review all discovery materials with your attorney to build a defense.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office or prepare for trial.
In Roanoke County, possession of an unregistered firearm under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, fines, and supervised release.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of an Unregistered Firearm (18 U.S.C. § 922(o)) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms prohibition | Supervised release up to 3 years; loss of voting rights; immigration consequences |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Firearms Case?
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. The firm has extensive experience handling complex federal criminal cases, including NFA violations, in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia. Mr. Sris personally handles federal criminal defense matters, bringing his background as a former prosecutor to every case.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Case Results in Roanoke County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 34 documented results in Roanoke County: 4 dismissed or not guilty, 28 reduced or amended, 2 deferred — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary. These results do not guarantee a similar outcome in your case.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Woodstock is approximately 100 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke, with access via I-81 and I-581.
We serve as a possession of an unregistered firearm lawyer near Roanoke County.
Serving the communities of Salem, Vinton, Cave Spring, Hollins, and Catawba.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
(888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Firearms Charges in Roanoke County
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical. Cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia under the Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C.) and Federal Sentencing Guidelines (USSG).
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against possession of an unregistered firearm charges?
Defense strategies for possession of an unregistered firearm in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under the Federal Criminal Code to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing possession of an unregistered firearm charges in Virginia?
If facing possession of an unregistered firearm charges in Virginia, contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Roanoke County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Roanoke County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Roanoke County General District Court (305 East Main Street, Salem, VA 24153).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Roanoke County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Roanoke County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Roanoke County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Roanoke County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Roanoke County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Roanoke County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Roanoke County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Roanoke County?
Roanoke County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Roanoke County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
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Last verified: May 2026. This page was generated on 2026-05-02.