Felon in Possession lawyer Colonial Heights, VA

Last reviewed: July 2026

A federal felon-in-possession charge — typically arising under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) — is a serious felony that can result in a long federal prison term with no possibility of parole. If you are facing such a charge in Colonial Heights, Virginia, your case will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and heard in the Richmond Division of the U.S. District Court. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team provide experienced federal criminal defense to individuals in Colonial Heights and throughout Virginia. Our Richmond location is equipped to handle every phase of a federal prosecution, from the initial appearance and detention hearing through pretrial motions, trial, and sentencing under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, brings insight into how the government builds its case, and his extensive combined legal experience with his Of Counsel helps inform a thorough defense strategy. To discuss your situation and how we can help, call (888) 437‑7747.

What Federal Felon‑in‑Possession Means in Colonial Heights, VA

Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a qualifying felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition. A person charged under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) faces prosecution in the federal system, where the Eastern District of Virginia’s Richmond Division has jurisdiction over Colonial Heights. Investigations are typically conducted by federal agencies such as the ATF or FBI, and after indictment the case proceeds before a U.S. District Judge in Richmond.

Because federal sentences are generally longer than state court sentences and the system has abolished parole, a conviction can carry severe consequences. The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines — while advisory after the Supreme Court’s Booker decision — heavily influence the sentence a judge imposes, so building a detailed, defendant‑specific record is essential. Our Richmond location represents clients at every stage of the process, including pretrial release arguments, discovery review, motion practice, and, if necessary, trial. We understand the procedural rhythms of the Eastern District and work to ensure your rights are protected from the earliest stages of an investigation.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Federal Criminal Cases

Every federal felon‑in‑possession case receives a thorough, methodical review. We examine the government’s evidence to determine whether law enforcement respected constitutional limits — scrutinizing how a firearm was discovered, whether a search was lawful, and whether the government can prove the elements of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. Where factual or legal defenses exist, we raise them in pretrial motions and, if needed, at trial.

We also engage the U.S. Attorney’s Office early to explore whether a favorable pretrial disposition is possible. Throughout the process, we keep our clients informed and work to achieve the most favorable resolution under the facts of a particular case. Because federal cases move under deadlines imposed by the Speedy Trial Act, we act promptly to preserve your options. Every strategy is tailored to the client’s circumstances, and we handle each matter with careful preparation and attention to detail.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, he brings firsthand understanding of how the government approaches criminal prosecutions. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His Of Counsel team includes attorneys who assist on federal matters, each bringing their own background and training to the defense effort.

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. Our Richmond location serves clients in Colonial Heights and the surrounding communities, and we are available to discuss your case by phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is federal felon in possession under U.S. Law?

Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), it is a federal felony for a person previously convicted of a qualifying felony to possess a firearm or ammunition. The government must prove that the defendant had a prior felony conviction, that they knowingly possessed a firearm, and that the firearm crossed state lines at some point. Because the offense is prosecuted in federal court, the penalties are governed by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and a conviction can result in a substantial prison sentence without the possibility of parole.

Do I need a lawyer if I am charged with felon in possession in Virginia?

Yes — as soon as you become aware that you are the target of a federal investigation or have been indicted, you should seek the advice of a qualified federal criminal defense attorney. Federal charges bring complex procedural rules, detention hearings that can determine whether you remain in custody, and sentencing exposure that may be significantly higher than what you would face in state court. An experienced lawyer can evaluate the government’s evidence, identify constitutional challenges, and develop a strategy aimed at preserving your rights and pursuing a favorable outcome.

How do federal sentencing guidelines apply in Colonial Heights cases?

At sentencing in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, the judge calculates an advisory range under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines using a points‑based system that accounts for the offense conduct and the defendant’s criminal history. While the guidelines are not mandatory, they carry significant weight. Certain prior convictions — such as multiple violent felonies or serious drug offenses — can trigger enhanced statutory minimums. A skilled presentation of mitigating factors and a thorough pre‑sentence investigation can influence the final sentence.

What should I do if I am facing a federal firearm charge?

First, do not speak with law enforcement or anyone else about the facts of your case without your attorney present. Invoke your right to counsel and remain silent. Next, contact a federal criminal defense lawyer who can immediately begin investigating the circumstances, preserve evidence, and advise you on how to handle any upcoming court appearances. The steps you take — or fail to take — in the early days of a federal case can have a lasting impact on the outcome.

Can federal felon‑in‑possession charges be dismissed or reduced?

A dismissal or a favorable plea to a lesser charge is possible when the government’s evidence is weak or when constitutional violations occurred during the investigation. For example, if the firearm was discovered through an unlawful search, a successful motion to suppress can lead to the exclusion of that evidence and, often, a dismissal. In other situations, early engagement with the prosecutor may result in a plea agreement that reduces the charge or avoids a mandatory minimum sentence. While no attorney can guarantee a particular result, a thorough defense maximizes the chance of a favorable resolution.

Why choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for federal defense in Colonial Heights?

The firm has served clients in Virginia federal courts since 1997, and Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor gives him valuable perspective on how federal cases are built and prosecuted. Our Richmond location is situated to handle matters in the Eastern District’s Richmond Division, and we have experience managing federal felony cases from investigation through sentencing. We offer during business hours phone availability, consultations by appointment, and a commitment to careful, well‑prepared representation throughout the life of a federal case.

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Results may vary.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.