Possession of an Unregistered Firearm Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia
Possession of an unregistered firearm is a federal offense under the National Firearms Act (NFA), 26 U.S.C. § 5861(d), and 18 U.S.C. § 922(o), carrying penalties of up to 10 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Chesapeake, Virginia, and provides representation for clients facing these serious charges.
Understanding Possession of an Unregistered Firearm Charges
The National Firearms Act (NFA), codified at 26 U.S.C. § 5841 et seq., requires the registration of certain firearms, including machine guns, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, suppressors, and destructive devices. Under 26 U.S.C. § 5861(d), it is unlawful for any person to possess a firearm that is not registered to them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Additionally, 18 U.S.C. § 922(o) makes it illegal to possess a machine gun manufactured after May 19, 1986. Violations are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA), which has jurisdiction over Chesapeake. 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 | 26 U.S.C. § 5861 (Cornell LII)
Official Statute References
- 26 U.S.C. § 5861 (NFA — Prohibited Acts) (Cornell LII — official U.S. Code)
- U.S. Attorney’s Office — Eastern District of Virginia (justice.gov — official site)
Insider Perspective on Federal Firearm Cases in Chesapeake
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue NFA violations with significant resources. We have observed that the government often relies on ATF trace data and informant testimony to build cases. Early intervention is critical to challenge the legality of the search or seizure.
- Do not consent to any search of your home, vehicle, or person.
- Invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.
- Preserve all documentation related to the firearm, including purchase records and registration attempts.
- Contact a federal criminal defense attorney before any court appearance.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone other than your lawyer.
- Prepare for a potential detention hearing if arrested.
In Chesapeake, Virginia, possession of an unregistered firearm under the NFA carries severe federal penalties, including significant prison time and fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of unregistered NFA firearm (26 U.S.C. § 5861(d)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | No parole; supervised release; loss of voting rights |
| Possession of a machine gun (18 U.S.C. § 922(o)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | No parole; supervised release; asset forfeiture |
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%. Our firm has extensive experience defending clients in federal court, including the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. We understand the details of the NFA and the aggressive tactics used by federal prosecutors.
Your Federal 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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Chesapeake, Virginia. While specific case results for this jurisdiction are not available, 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 and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 90 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), with access via I-64 and I-464.
Federal criminal lawyer near Chesapeake.
Serving the communities of Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
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 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Firearm Charges
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 Chesapeake (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. 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 possession of an unregistered firearm charges?
Defense strategies for possession of an unregistered firearm in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under the National Firearms Act (NFA) to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing possession of an unregistered firearm charges in Virginia?
If facing possession of an unregistered firearm 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.
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Last verified: May 2026