Felon in Possession lawyer King William County, VA

Facing federal felon in possession of a firearm charges in King William County, Virginia, is a serious matter. Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), it is a federal crime for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to possess a firearm or ammunition in or affecting interstate commerce. In King William County, these cases are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia in the Richmond Division. The federal system operates under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and there is no parole for federal sentences. Because of the high stakes, retaining an experienced federal criminal defense attorney early can be critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients throughout Virginia, including King William County. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997, and his Of Counsel team provide experienced, multi-state representation. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Federal investigators, including the FBI and ATF, often handle these investigations. The prosecution must prove that the defendant knowingly possessed the firearm and knew of his felony status at the time. An experienced attorney can challenge the government’s evidence and work to protect your rights.

What Felon in Possession Means in King William County

Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), it is a federal crime for any person who has been convicted of a felony to possess a firearm or ammunition. The law applies even if the prior felony conviction occurred in state court, and it covers any type of firearm, from handguns to rifles. Federal prosecutors actively pursue these cases, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia brings charges in the federal courthouse in Richmond. The statute is broad, and even temporary possession—such as holding a firearm briefly for another person—can lead to prosecution. Additionally, other subsections of § 922(g) prohibit possession by individuals under indictment for a felony, those convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence, and those subject to certain protection orders.

In King William County, anyone charged with felon in possession will have their case adjudicated in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, which has jurisdiction over the entire county. The Richmond Division, located at 701 East Broad Street, handles cases from King William. The U.S. Attorney works closely with federal agencies such as the FBI, ATF, and other law enforcement to investigate and prosecute violations. Because federal court differs significantly from Virginia’s state courts—from pretrial detention rules to sentencing guidelines—it is important to have counsel familiar with the federal system. Experienced federal criminal defense attorneys understand the procedural nuances, from initial appearance and detention hearings through trial and sentencing.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Felon in Possession Cases

When you engage Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a federal felon in possession case, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by thoroughly examining the government’s evidence to identify potential constitutional violations. Federal law enforcement must follow procedures under the Fourth Amendment; any search or seizure that was conducted without a warrant or a valid exception may lead to suppression of the firearm evidence. The defense team also reviews whether the defendant’s prior felony conviction qualifies under the federal statute—some state convictions that have been expunged or that do not meet the federal definition may not support a § 922(g) charge. The approach is tailored to the specific facts of each case, and the firm works to challenge the prosecution’s evidence at every stage.

In many cases, negotiations with the Assistant United States Attorney can result in a favorable resolution. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have experience working with federal prosecutors and can present mitigating factors—such as acceptance of responsibility, limited criminal history, and positive community ties—to seek a reduced charge or a favorable plea agreement. If a case proceeds to trial, the defense is prepared to cross-examine government witnesses, challenge forensic evidence, and present a vigorous factual defense. Because federal sentencing guidelines significantly affect the ultimate outcome, the firm also focuses on preparing a comprehensive sentencing memorandum that highlights the defendant’s personal circumstances. Throughout the representation, clients are kept informed about their options and the status of their case.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. A former prosecutor, he has practiced law since 1997 and has experience handling federal criminal defense matters in courts throughout the Eastern District of Virginia. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor gives him insight into how the government builds its cases, which informs the defense strategies he and his team develop for clients. He is supported by a team of Of Counsel attorneys with extensive experience in federal criminal matters.

Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team provide experienced, multi-state representation to individuals facing federal felon in possession charges in King William County and across Virginia. The firm’s Richmond location serves the Central Virginia region. Because federal cases move quickly and the stakes are high, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation and discuss your situation with an experienced federal defense attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is felon in possession of a firearm under federal law?

Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), it is a federal crime for any person convicted of a felony to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in or affected interstate commerce. This statute is broad and applies to any type of firearm, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. The prior felony conviction can be from any state or federal court, and even a single instance of possession can result in charges. Federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia pursue these cases actively, and convictions carry significant potential penalties, including imprisonment and supervised release. An experienced attorney can help you understand the specific elements the government must prove and identify possible defenses.

What are the potential consequences of a federal felon in possession conviction?

A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) can result in a federal prison sentence, a term of supervised release, and a substantial fine. Sentencing is determined by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the defendant’s criminal history, the nature of the offense, and any aggravating or mitigating factors. There is no parole in the federal system, although some good-time credits may apply. Additional consequences may include the loss of the right to possess firearms, restrictions on voting or employment, and other collateral effects. Because sentencing can be complex, it is important to work with an attorney who understands the guidelines and can present a compelling case for a lower sentence.

How does a federal felon in possession case differ from a state firearms charge?

Federal felon in possession charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney in federal district court, not by a state prosecutor in state court. Federal cases involve different procedural rules, including those governing pretrial detention, discovery, and plea negotiations. The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, rather than state sentencing ranges, guide the punishment. Additionally, federal cases are typically investigated by federal agencies such as the FBI or ATF, and they may involve multi-jurisdictional coordination. Because the federal system has no parole, the time actually served can be longer than in a comparable state case. Retaining counsel with federal court experience is critical.

Can I be charged with felon in possession if I didn’t know the firearm was there?

Possibly not, depending on the facts. After the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Rehaif v. United States, the prosecution must prove that you knew you possessed the firearm and that you knew you had a prior felony conviction at the time. If the government cannot establish your knowledge—for example, if the firearm was hidden in a vehicle you were borrowing and you had no reason to know it was there—that may be a defense. However, if you knew the firearm was present and you had the ability and intention to control it, you could be found in constructive possession. An experienced attorney can evaluate the evidence and challenge the knowledge element.

What should I do if I am under investigation for a federal firearms offense in King William County?

If you are under investigation, it is important to seek legal counsel immediately and to refrain from speaking with federal agents without an attorney present. Federal investigators often conduct interviews and gather evidence before charges are filed. Anything you say can be used against you, and cooperating without advice may harm your defense. Contacting an experienced federal criminal defense attorney as soon as you suspect an investigation can help protect your rights. An attorney can communicate with the U.S. Attorney on your behalf and begin building a proactive defense. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation with the firm.

For official court and legal resources: U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Virginia’s Judicial System.

Last reviewed: July 2026

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