Possession of an Unregistered Firearm Lawyer in Virginia
Possession of an unregistered firearm is a federal offense under the National Firearms Act (NFA), 26 U.S.C. § 5861(d), carrying up to 10 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Understanding Possession of an Unregistered Firearm Under Federal Law
Possession of an unregistered firearm is a federal crime under the National Firearms Act (NFA), codified at 26 U.S.C. § 5861(d). This statute makes it unlawful for any person to possess a firearm that is not registered to them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record (NFRTR). The NFA covers specific categories of weapons, including machine guns, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), silencers (suppressors), destructive devices, and any other weapons (AOWs). The law requires that each NFA firearm be registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) through a proper transfer process. Failure to register results in a federal felony charge. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defend clients facing these serious allegations.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 26 U.S.C. § 5861 (Cornell LII)
Official Legal References
For the full text of the National Firearms Act, visit the ATF National Firearms Act page (justice.gov). For Virginia-specific firearm laws, see the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Virginia General Assembly — official site).
Insider Perspective on Federal Firearm Cases in Virginia
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, federal prosecutors routinely pursue possession of an unregistered firearm charges with aggressive tactics. We have observed that the government often relies on informants, controlled buys, and search warrants to build these cases.
- Do not consent to any search of your home, vehicle, or person without a warrant.
- Invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately upon contact with law enforcement.
- Preserve all documentation related to the firearm, including any correspondence with the ATF.
- Contact an experienced NFA violation defense lawyer Virginia as soon as possible.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone other than your attorney, including family or friends.
- Attend all court hearings and comply with pretrial conditions to avoid additional charges.
In Virginia, possession of an unregistered firearm under federal law carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of an Unregistered Firearm (26 U.S.C. § 5861(d)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years in federal prison | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition; may affect state firearm rights | Forfeiture of firearm; permanent federal criminal record; no parole in federal system |
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 handling complex federal criminal cases, including NFA violations, in the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Virginia. We understand the high stakes involved and provide aggressive, strategic defense case-specific to each client’s unique circumstances.
Your Legal 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
Proven Results in Federal Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. While specific case results for possession of an unregistered firearm charges vary, our firm has a strong track record of achieving dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements in federal criminal cases. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 100 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia in Alexandria, with access via I-95 and I-64. We serve clients throughout Virginia, including the communities of Richmond, Fairfax, Arlington, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and all other cities and counties. As a Possession of an Unregistered Firearm lawyer Virginia, we are available 24/7 for 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 About Possession of an Unregistered Firearm in Virginia
What is possession of an unregistered firearm under federal law?
Possession of an unregistered firearm is a federal offense under the National Firearms Act (NFA), 26 U.S.C. § 5861(d). It prohibits possessing certain firearms—such as silencers, short-barreled rifles, and machine guns—that are not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Violations are prosecuted in U.S. District Court for the Eastern or Western District of Virginia.
What are the penalties for possession of an unregistered firearm in Virginia?
Penalties for possession of an unregistered firearm under federal law include up to 10 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and forfeiture of the firearm. Federal sentencing guidelines apply, and there is no parole in the federal system. A conviction also results in a permanent federal criminal record.
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 the legality of the search or seizure, examining whether the firearm meets the NFA definition, negotiating with federal prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under federal statutes 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 federal law require prompt action.
Can possession of an unregistered firearm charge be reduced or dismissed?
It depends. Possession of an unregistered firearm charges may be reduced or dismissed through pretrial diversion programs, plea negotiations, or successful suppression motions. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern or Western District of Virginia may consider alternative resolutions depending on the circumstances. An experienced NFA violation defense lawyer Virginia can evaluate your case.
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Last updated: 2026-05-02
By appointment only.
Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.