Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Colonial Heights, Virginia
Under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), using a firearm during a crime of violence carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years in federal prison, consecutive to any other sentence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Colonial Heights. A Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer Colonial Heights can help you handle these serious federal charges.
Understanding Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Charges
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) criminalizes the use, carrying, or possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. 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 another person. This includes offenses such as robbery, kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon, and certain drug trafficking crimes. The penalty for a first offense under § 924(c) is a mandatory minimum of 5 years in federal prison, which must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed. If the firearm is brandished, the minimum increases to 7 years; if discharged, 10 years. These charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA) in Richmond or Alexandria divisions.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (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 federal criminal defense in Colonial Heights.
Official Legal References
Local Procedural Insights for Federal Firearm Charges
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek the maximum mandatory minimum sentences under § 924(c). The EDVA is known for its “rocket docket” — cases move quickly from indictment to trial, often within 60-90 days.
We have observed that the government frequently charges § 924(c) in conjunction with drug trafficking or robbery predicates, making the predicate offense definition a critical battleground.
- Contact a Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence lawyer Colonial Heights immediately upon arrest or indictment.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney — federal agents may record calls and visits.
- Preserve all evidence, including phone records, GPS data, and witness contact information.
- Your attorney will file a motion to challenge whether the predicate offense qualifies as a crime of violence under current law.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a potential plea agreement that avoids the § 924(c) count.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for a jury trial in the EDVA’s Richmond division.
Penalties for Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence
In Colonial Heights, a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries mandatory minimum prison terms that run consecutively to any other sentence imposed for the underlying crime of violence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use/Carry/Possess Firearm During Crime of Violence (First Offense) | Federal Felony | 5 years mandatory minimum (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Federal prison, 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) | Federal prison, 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) | Federal prison, 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) | Federal prison, no parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Federal Firearm 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%. Our firm has extensive experience defending federal firearm charges under § 924(c) in the Eastern District of Virginia. We understand the local procedures, the U.S. Attorney’s Office practices, and the federal sentencing guidelines that apply to these cases.
Your 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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. While no locality-specific case result is available for this jurisdiction/topic, our firm-wide data demonstrates a favorable-outcome rate above 93%.
Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 20 miles from Colonial Heights General District Court (550 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834), with access via I-95 and Route 1.
If you need a 924c charge defense lawyer Colonial Heights, we are here to help. Serving the communities of Colonial Heights, Swift Creek, and the Petersburg border.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (804) 201-9009
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Colonial Heights, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Colonial Heights 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 Colonial Heights General District Court (550 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Colonial Heights, 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 Colonial Heights Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Colonial Heights, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Colonial Heights. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Colonial Heights General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Colonial Heights (City), 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 Colonial Heights General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Colonial Heights?
Colonial Heights General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Colonial Heights 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.
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 Colonial Heights (City), 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.
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.
Related Practice Areas
Last verified: May 2026
By appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — (888) 437-7747