Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Greene County, Virginia
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), using a firearm during a crime of violence carries a 5-year mandatory minimum sentence, consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Greene County, VA, and provides strategic federal representation. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) prohibits using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of such a crime. A “crime of violence” under federal statute includes offenses such as robbery, kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon, and certain drug trafficking crimes. Conviction under § 924(c) carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for a first offense, 7 years if the firearm is brandished, and 10 years if discharged. These sentences must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed. The statute applies to cases prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, which has jurisdiction over Greene County. 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 Western District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII)
For the full text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII — official site). For the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines applicable to firearm offenses, see U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (ussc.gov — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek the mandatory minimum under § 924(c) for any firearm connected to a predicate crime of violence. We have observed that early intervention — before an indictment is returned — can sometimes influence whether the firearm charge is included.
- Do not make any statements to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence, including phone records, GPS data, and witness contact information.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately to discuss pre-indictment negotiation.
- Review the discovery materials for any inconsistencies in the government’s case.
- Evaluate whether a plea agreement with a downward departure for substantial assistance is possible.
- Prepare for sentencing by gathering mitigating evidence, such as employment history and family support.
In Greene County, a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) for use of a firearm in a crime of violence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years to life, consecutive to any other sentence, plus fines up to $250,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use of firearm during crime of violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i)) | Federal felony | 5 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Brandishing firearm during crime of violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii)) | Federal felony | 7 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Discharging firearm during crime of violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(iii)) | Federal felony | 10 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | 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., “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%. The firm has handled numerous federal criminal cases, including those involving firearm enhancements under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c).
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 Greene County. While no specific case result is available for this jurisdiction/topic, the firm has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Results may vary.
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 60 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia (Charlottesville Division), with access via Route 29 and Route 33. We serve as a use of a firearm in crime of violence lawyer near Greene County. Serving the communities of Stanardsville and Ruckersville. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417 | (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 Greene County, Virginia?
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Western 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. § 924(c) 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 federal law require prompt action.
Learn more about Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia (state hub). Also see Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Albemarle County and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Augusta County. For related practice areas, visit Business Dissolution Lawyer Greene County and Defamation Lawyer Greene County.
Last verified: May 2026. This page was last updated on 2026-05-01.