Possession or use of a machine gun 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 Powhatan County and across Virginia. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Lawyer in Powhatan County, Virginia
Under federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) makes it unlawful for any person to transfer or possess a machine gun that was not lawfully possessed before May 19, 1986. This statute, part of the National Firearms Act, applies to any firearm that can shoot more than one shot automatically without manual reloading. A conviction for possession or use of a machine gun carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and forfeiture of the weapon. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division) prosecutes these cases in Powhatan County.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII)
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience to every case.
For the official text of the federal machine gun statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII — official site). For Virginia state firearms laws, see Va. Code Title 18.2, Chapter 7 (Virginia General Assembly — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), prosecutors routinely seek maximum sentences for machine gun possession cases. We have observed that federal agents often rely on informants and surveillance to build these cases. Early intervention by an experienced attorney can make a critical difference.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence, including receipts and records.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Review the indictment and discovery materials with your attorney.
- Develop a defense strategy based on the specific facts of your case.
- Negotiate with prosecutors or prepare for trial.
In Powhatan County, possession or use of a machine gun carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and forfeiture of the weapon.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession or Use of a Machine Gun (18 U.S.C. § 922(o)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms license revoked | Forfeiture of weapon; supervised release up to 3 years |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” 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%. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the statute that governs equitable distribution in every Virginia divorce. The firm has extensive experience defending federal firearms charges, including machine gun possession cases.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Powhatan County. While specific case results for federal machine gun charges are not available, the firm has 2 total documented case results across all practice areas in Powhatan County, with a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Firm-wide, SRIS has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 25 miles from Powhatan County General District Court, with access via Route 60 and Route 288. We serve as a possession or use of a machine gun lawyer near Powhatan County. Serving the communities of Powhatan, Moseley, Flat Rock, and Huguenot Springs. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Powhatan County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Powhatan 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 Powhatan County General District Court (3834 Old Buckingham Rd, Suite C, Powhatan, VA 23139).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Powhatan 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 Powhatan County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Powhatan County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Powhatan County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Powhatan County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Powhatan 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 Powhatan County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Powhatan County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Powhatan County?
Powhatan County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Powhatan 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.
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.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against possession or use of a machine gun charges?
Defense strategies for possession or use of a machine gun in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Federal Criminal general statutes to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing possession or use of a machine gun charges in Virginia?
If facing possession or use of a machine gun 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.
Learn more about our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia practice. We also serve Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Albemarle County and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Augusta County. For related legal needs, see our Corporate Transactions Lawyer Powhatan County and Petit Larceny Lawyer Powhatan County pages.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division) | Powhatan County General District Court
Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.