Unlawful dealing in firearms is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 922 et seq., carrying severe penalties including up to 10 years in federal prison; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and provides representation at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Unlawful Dealing in Firearms Lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Federal law prohibits any person from engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license under 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(1)(A). This includes selling, leasing, or transferring firearms as a regular course of trade. The statute applies to anyone who devotes time, attention, and labor to dealing in firearms as a primary or secondary source of income. Violations are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, which has jurisdiction over Virginia Beach. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 922 (Cornell LII)
For the full text of the statute, visit the official government sources: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (justice.gov) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (atf.gov).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue aggressive sentencing enhancements for firearms offenses. The court is known for its “rocket docket” reputation, meaning cases move quickly from indictment to trial.
- Do not consent to any search of your property or vehicle.
- Do not answer questions without your attorney present.
- Request a lawyer immediately if detained or arrested.
- Preserve all records of firearm transactions, including receipts and bills of sale.
- Contact an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
- Attend all scheduled court appearances to avoid additional charges.
In Virginia Beach, unlawful dealing in firearms carries federal penalties including imprisonment, fines, and forfeiture of firearms.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlawful Dealing in Firearms (18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(1)(A)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Loss of firearm rights | Forfeiture of firearms, supervised release |
| Conspiracy to Commit Unlawful Dealing (18 U.S.C. § 371) | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 | Loss of firearm rights | Supervised release, forfeiture |
Results may vary.
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 Virginia Beach, with 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. While no locality-specific case results are available for this jurisdiction, the firm maintains a favorable-outcome rate above 93% across all practice areas.
Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 100 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), with access via I-64 and I-264. We serve as an unlawful dealing in firearms lawyer near Virginia Beach. Serving the communities of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
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. Federal unlawful dealing in firearms charges are prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 922 et seq. in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against unlawful dealing in firearms charges?
Defense strategies for unlawful dealing in firearms 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 unlawful dealing in firearms charges in Virginia?
If facing unlawful dealing in firearms 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.
What are the penalties for unlawful dealing in firearms in Virginia?
Penalties for unlawful dealing in firearms in Virginia depend on the specific charges, prior record, and circumstances. Under 18 U.S.C. § 922 et seq., consequences may include fines, jail time, probation, or other sanctions. Consult a Virginia federal criminal attorney for case-specific guidance.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach General District Court (2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456).
Learn more about our services: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia (state hub). Explore related pages: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesapeake and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Caroline County. Also see: Confidentiality Agreement Lawyer Virginia Beach and Consumer Protection Lawyer Virginia Beach.
Last verified: May 2026. This page was updated on May 2, 2026.