Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Lawyer in Hanover County, Virginia
Facing a federal charge for use of a firearm in a crime of violence in Hanover County, Virginia, carries severe penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 922 et seq., including mandatory minimum sentences and no parole. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience and can help you handle the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Understanding Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence Charges Under Federal Law
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 922 et seq. criminalizes the use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. A “crime of violence” is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) as a felony that involves the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against another person. Conviction under § 924(c) carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years, which must run consecutively to any other sentence. If the firearm is brandished, the minimum increases to seven years; if discharged, to ten years. These charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA), which has a reputation for aggressive prosecution. 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 | USAO EDVA
Official Federal Statutes and Resources
Insider Procedural Edge: handling Federal Charges in EDVA
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek mandatory minimum sentences for firearm-related offenses. The EDVA is known as the “rocket docket” for its fast-paced schedule, with trials often occurring within 70 days of indictment. We have observed that early intervention is critical to preserving your rights and building a defense.
- Invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately upon arrest.
- Do not consent to any searches or questioning without your lawyer present.
- Preserve all evidence, including communications, documents, and digital records.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer within 24 hours of arrest.
- Work with your attorney to challenge the legality of any search or seizure.
- Prepare for a potential detention hearing to argue for pretrial release.
In Hanover County, use of a firearm in a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) carries mandatory minimum sentences that are severe and must be served consecutively to any other sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use of Firearm in Crime of Violence (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (consecutive); 7 years if brandished; 10 years if discharged | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | No parole; loss of firearm rights; potential deportation for non-citizens |
| Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (consecutive); up to life | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | No parole; asset forfeiture; enhanced sentencing for prior convictions |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal 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 has a background in accounting and information systems, which he applies to complex financial and technology-related cases. The firm handles federal criminal defense matters in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, including the Richmond Division, which serves Hanover County.
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
Case Results in Hanover County and Beyond
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 19 documented results in Hanover County: 9 dismissed or not guilty, 10 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 20 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division), with access via I-95 and I-295. Serving the communities of Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Use of a Firearm in Crime of Violence 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. Cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia under the Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C.) and Federal Sentencing Guidelines (USSG).
Federal charges carry 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.
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines.
How do federal sentencing guidelines work in Hanover County, 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.
Federal sentencing follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which strongly influence sentencing despite being advisory since Booker (2005).
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.
Defense strategies may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, and negotiating with prosecutors.
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.
Contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer.
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Last verified: May 2026. This page was last updated on 2026-05-01.