A charge 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, consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Chesterfield County, VA. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), it is a federal crime to use or carry a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, or to possess a firearm in furtherance of such a crime. A “crime of violence” is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 16 as an offense that has as an element the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against the person or property of another. This statute imposes severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences that must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed. In Chesterfield County, these charges are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division). Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)
For the full text of the statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines, see U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSC.gov — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), prosecutors routinely seek the mandatory minimum sentence under § 924(c). We have observed that early intervention and a thorough review of the indictment can identify procedural errors or factual weaknesses.
- Contact a federal criminal defense attorney immediately upon arrest or indictment.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone except your lawyer.
- Preserve all evidence, including communications and documents.
- Your attorney will review the indictment for legal sufficiency.
- Challenge any procedural errors or violations of your rights.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a potential resolution.
In Chesterfield County, a conviction for use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences that run consecutively to any other sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use or carry firearm during crime of violence | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Possess firearm in furtherance of crime of violence | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
Results may vary.
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 — our firm is dedicated to providing aggressive and effective federal criminal defense in Chesterfield County and throughout Virginia.
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 Chesterfield County. While specific case results for federal firearm charges are not available, the firm has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed or not guilty, 2 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 20 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), with access via I-95 and I-295. We serve as a use of a firearm in crime of violence lawyer near Chesterfield County. Serving the communities of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. 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
(804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
What is federal criminal court and how is it different in VA?
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines than state charges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles federal defense — (888) 437-7747.
How do federal sentencing guidelines work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines — a points-based calculation using offense level and criminal history category. While advisory since Booker (2005), guidelines strongly influence sentencing. Mandatory minimum statutes override downward departures in many drug, firearm, and child exploitation offenses. Acceptance of responsibility, substantial assistance (§ 5K1.1), and safety-valve eligibility materially reduce exposure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — (888) 437-7747.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against use of a firearm in crime of violence charges?
Defense strategies for use of a firearm in crime of violence in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 18 U.S.C. § 922 et seq. to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing use of a firearm in crime of violence charges in Virginia?
If facing use of a firearm in crime of violence 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. Explore related pages: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Albemarle County, Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Augusta County, and Business Transaction Lawyer Chesterfield County.
Last verified: May 2026 | Page generated: 2026-05-01