Possession or use of a machine gun is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) carrying up to 10 years in federal prison; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Shenandoah County and across Virginia.
Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Lawyer in Shenandoah County, Virginia
Understanding Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Charges
Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o), it is unlawful for any person to transfer or possess a machine gun, except as authorized by the Attorney General. A machine gun is defined under 26 U.S.C. § 5845(b) as any weapon that shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot, automatically more than one shot without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. This federal statute prohibits the possession or use of machine guns that were not lawfully possessed prior to May 19, 1986. Violations are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, which has jurisdiction over Shenandoah County. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) (Cornell LII)
Official Legal References
Insider Perspective on Federal Machine Gun Cases in Shenandoah County
In the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, federal prosecutors routinely pursue charges under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) with significant resources. We have observed that early intervention and a thorough understanding of federal sentencing guidelines are critical to achieving favorable outcomes.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Preserve all evidence and do not alter any records.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer.
- Attend all court hearings and follow your attorney’s guidance.
In Shenandoah County, possession or use of a machine gun carries a federal penalty of up to 10 years in prison, substantial fines, and forfeiture of the weapon.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of a Machine Gun (18 U.S.C. § 922(o)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | Forfeiture of weapon; no parole in federal system |
| Use of a Machine Gun During a Crime of Violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 30 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | No parole; mandatory consecutive sentence |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Machine Gun Defense?
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%. Advocacy Without Borders is our commitment to providing dedicated representation to clients facing serious federal charges. Our firm has handled numerous federal criminal cases and understands the details of the federal court system.
Your Federal Criminal Defense Team
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
Our Track Record in Shenandoah County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 61 documented results in Shenandoah County: 2 dismissed or not guilty, 57 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate of 97%. Results may vary. These results include cases in traffic, drug offenses, and other criminal matters, demonstrating our firm’s commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
Our Shenandoah County Location
Our location in Woodstock is approximately 1 mile from the Shenandoah County General District Court, with access via I-81 and Route 11.
Federal criminal lawyer near Shenandoah County.
Serving the communities of Woodstock, Edinburg, Strasburg, Mount Jackson, Toms Brook, and New Market.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Possession or Use of a Machine Gun Charges
What is the penalty for possession or use of a machine gun in Virginia?
Possession or use of a machine gun is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o). Penalties can include up to 10 years in federal prison, substantial fines, and forfeiture of the weapon. Cases are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
Yes, penalties include up to 10 years in federal prison and fines.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against possession or use of a machine gun charges?
Defense strategies may include challenging the legality of the search and seizure, examining the chain of custody of evidence, negotiating with federal prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) 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 federal law require prompt action.
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.
Federal charges carry harsher penalties and no parole.
Related Legal Resources
Last verified: May 2026