Possession of Firearm in Drug Trafficking Crime lawyer Prince George’s County, MD

You are facing a federal charge of possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime in Prince George’s County, Maryland.
This is a serious offense prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the consequences can include mandatory minimum prison time.
When a federal grand jury returns an indictment against you in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, the government’s case is already well underway.
Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys understand the federal system and appear in the Greenbelt and Baltimore divisions of the U.S. District Court to defend clients against these charges.
Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime Means in Maryland

Federal prosecutors often charge possession of a firearm in connection with drug trafficking under
18 U.S.C. § 924(c). This statute makes it a separate offense to use, carry, or possess a firearm
during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime—or to possess a firearm in furtherance of such
a crime. The firearm charge is brought in addition to the underlying drug trafficking count, which
is typically prosecuted under 21 U.S.C. § 841 and related provisions.

In Maryland, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland prosecutes these cases with two
divisional offices: one in Baltimore and one in Greenbelt, the latter being the primary venue for
matters originating in Prince George’s County. Federal cases are investigated by agencies such as
the FBI, DEA, ATF, and HSI. A conviction under § 924(c) triggers mandatory, consecutive prison time
that runs on top of any sentence for the underlying drug offense. The Sentencing Guidelines are
advisory, but the statutory minimums for the firearm charge significantly restrict the court’s
discretion.

Because the stakes are high and the federal system operates under its own set of procedural rules,
working with an attorney experienced in federal criminal defense is critical. Mr. Sris and the
firm’s Of Counsel attorneys concentrate on federal charges in Maryland and across the firm’s
multi‑state practice. The firm’s Rockville location serves clients throughout Prince George’s
County, including Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, and Greenbelt.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime?

It is a federal criminal charge under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) that punishes having a firearm
in connection with a drug trafficking offense. The government must prove that a drug
trafficking crime occurred and that the defendant knowingly possessed a firearm in furtherance of
that crime. The firearm does not need to be used or brandished; mere possession is sufficient if it
can be shown the firearm advanced or facilitated the drug offense.

What are the potential consequences of a § 924(c) conviction?

A conviction triggers mandatory, consecutive prison time that begins only after any sentence
imposed for the underlying drug crime is fully served. The exact sentence depends on factors
such as whether the firearm was merely possessed, brandished, or discharged, and whether the
defendant has prior § 924(c) convictions. Federal law eliminates parole, and a term of supervised
release follows imprisonment. Fines and forfeiture of assets are also common.

How is a federal firearm charge prosecuted in Maryland?

Cases are prosecuted by the United States Attorney for the District of Maryland, with the
Greenbelt division handling most Prince George’s County matters. The case begins with an
investigation by a federal agency, followed by a grand jury indictment. After an initial appearance
and arraignment, the defense and prosecution engage in discovery and pretrial motions. Many cases
resolve through plea negotiations; those that do not proceed to trial in the U.S. District Court in
Greenbelt or Baltimore.

Can a § 924(c) charge be dismissed or reduced?

A prosecutor may dismiss or reduce the charge if there are evidentiary weaknesses or if a
negotiated plea resolves the matter on terms favorable to the defense. Defense counsel
may also file motions challenging the sufficiency of the indictment, the legality of searches and
seizures, or the admissibility of evidence. Every case is unique, and the outcome depends on the
specific facts and the strength of the government’s case.

Do I need a lawyer for a federal firearm charge in Maryland?

Yes. Federal charges carry severe penalties, and the procedures are complex. An
attorney can evaluate the government’s evidence, identify viable defenses, negotiate with federal
prosecutors, and advocate at every stage of the proceeding. Because the U.S. Attorney’s Office has
substantial resources, self‑representation is not advisable.

What should I do if I am under investigation for a federal firearm offense?

Do not speak with law enforcement without a lawyer present. Anything you say can
be used against you. Contact an experienced federal criminal defense attorney immediately. Preserve
any relevant documents and avoid discussing the situation with anyone other than your lawyer.

How does the firm handle § 924(c) cases?

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys evaluate each case by examining the government’s
evidence, challenging procedural missteps, and exploring every available legal defense.
They appear in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland and work to negotiate plea
agreements or prepare for trial as the circumstances require. Because every federal indictment is
different, the defense strategy is tailored to the unique facts of each matter.

What is the difference between state and federal firearm charges?

Federal charges, including § 924(c), carry generally harsher penalties than state offenses
and do not allow for parole. They are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office rather
than a local state’s attorney, and they are subject to the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
An attorney experienced in federal court proceedings is critical because the rules and
prosecutorial resources differ from those in Maryland state courts.

Will I lose my right to own firearms permanently after a federal conviction?

A federal felony conviction results in a lifetime prohibition on possessing firearms under
18 U.S.C. § 922(g). This disability extends to all firearms and ammunition. Unless the
conviction is expunged or set aside, the prohibition remains for life. It is important to discuss
collateral consequences with your attorney early in the case.

How can I find a federal criminal defense lawyer in Prince George’s County?

Look for an attorney with specific experience in the U.S. District Court for the District of
Maryland. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear regularly in Maryland federal
court and are familiar with the procedures, judges, and prosecutors in both the Baltimore and
Greenbelt divisions. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a
consultation.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced as a former prosecutor and
has guided the firm since its founding in 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District
of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring substantial experience
in criminal defense, including former state prosecutors who understand how the government builds
its cases. Together they represent clients facing federal charges in the U.S. District Court for
the District of Maryland and across the firm’s multi‑state practice.

Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635
(chief patron Del. David Bulova). The firm’s Rockville location serves Prince George’s County
and all of Maryland. Consultations are available by appointment. Call (888) 437-7747 to speak
with a member of the team.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Results may vary.

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