Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Madison County, Virginia
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), use of a firearm in a crime of violence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for first offense, 7 years if brandished, and 10 years if discharged — all consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in federal cases at the U.S.
Understanding Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Under Federal Law
18 U.S.C. § 924(c) makes it a federal crime to use, carry, or possess a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. A “crime of violence” under this statute includes offenses such as robbery, kidnapping, assault with a dangerous weapon, and certain drug trafficking crimes. The statute imposes mandatory minimum sentences that run consecutively to any sentence imposed for the underlying crime of violence. This means a conviction under § 924(c) adds years to a sentence, regardless of the sentence for the predicate offense. The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, which has jurisdiction over Madison County, prosecutes these cases. A gun enhancement defense lawyer Madison County can evaluate whether the predicate offense qualifies as a crime of violence under the categorical approach established by Supreme Court precedent.
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%.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII — official text)
Official Legal References
For the full text of the federal statute governing use of a firearm in a crime of violence, see 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Cornell LII — official site). For the Federal Sentencing Guidelines applicable to these offenses, see U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSC.gov — official site).
Insider Procedural Edge: Federal Firearm Cases in the Western District of Virginia
In the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek the maximum mandatory minimums under § 924(c). We have observed that the government often charges the predicate crime of violence broadly to ensure the firearm enhancement applies.
Federal agents from the ATF and FBI typically lead investigations, and grand jury indictments are common. The Speedy Trial Act requires indictment within 30 days of arrest and trial within 70 days of indictment.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest or when you learn of an investigation.
- Preserve all evidence, including communications and documents.
- Attend all court appearances, including initial appearance, detention hearing, and arraignment.
- Work with your attorney to evaluate the predicate offense and develop a defense strategy.
- Consider whether a plea agreement or trial is in your experienced interest based on the evidence.
In Madison County, use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries mandatory minimum sentences that run consecutively to any other sentence imposed.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use/Carry Firearm During Crime of Violence (First Offense) | Federal Felony | 5 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Brandishing Firearm During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | 7 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Discharging Firearm During Crime of Violence | Federal Felony | 10 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
| Second or Subsequent § 924(c) Conviction | Federal Felony | 25 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Firearm Defense?
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 handles complex federal criminal defense matters, including use of a firearm in crime of violence charges. The firm has extensive experience in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, where Madison County cases are prosecuted. With a background in accounting and information systems, Mr. Sris applies analytical rigor to every case.
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
Case Results in Federal Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in federal cases. While specific case results for use of a firearm in crime of violence charges in Madison County are not available, the firm has 45 documented results in Madison County across all practice areas: 1 dismissed or not guilty, 44 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Firm-wide, SRIS has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
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 231. We serve as a use of a firearm in crime of violence lawyer near Madison County. Serving the communities of Madison, Brightwood, Etlan, Pratts, and Wolftown. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Charges
What is the penalty for use of a firearm in a crime of violence under federal law?
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), a conviction for use of a firearm in a crime of violence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years for first offense, 7 years if the firearm is brandished, and 10 years if discharged. These sentences run consecutively to any other sentence. The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia handles these cases.
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 charges in Virginia may include challenging the predicate offense classification, 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 Speedy Trial Act requires indictment within 30 days of arrest and trial within 70 days of indictment.
What is the difference between state and federal charges for firearm offenses?
Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. State charges under Va. Code § 18.2-279 through § 18.2-311.2 carry up to 12 months for misdemeanors. Federal mandatory minimums and consecutive sentencing make federal cases significantly more severe.
How do federal sentencing guidelines work for firearm offenses in Madison County, Virginia?
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. For 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) offenses, mandatory minimums override downward departures. Acceptance of responsibility, substantial assistance under § 5K1.1, and safety-valve eligibility may reduce exposure. There is no parole in the federal system.
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 does a Virginia lawyer defend against use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence charges?
Defense strategies for use of a firearm during and in relation to a 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 during and in relation to a crime of violence charges in Virginia?
If facing use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence charges in Virginia, contact a 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.
Related Legal Resources
For more information about federal criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia hub page. You may also find these pages useful: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Albemarle County, Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Augusta County, and Business Succession Lawyer Madison County.
Last verified: May 2026. This page was last updated on 2026-05-01.