Felon in Possession lawyer St. Mary’s County, MD
If you or a family member faces a federal investigation or charge for illegally possessing a firearm after a felony conviction, the consequences can be severe. In St. Mary’s County, these matters are handled in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, where federal sentencing guidelines and mandatory minimums often apply. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings extensive experience to federal criminal defense, representing clients from Leonardtown, Lexington Park, California, Great Mills, and other Southern Maryland communities. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear in federal court and work to protect the rights of those accused of violating 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). The government typically assigns agents from the FBI, ATF, or DEA to investigate such cases, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland prosecutes them. Early involvement of defense counsel can shape the direction of a federal case at every stage, from investigation through indictment, plea negotiations, and trial. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to speak with a member of our team about your situation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Felon in Possession Means in St. Mary’s County
Under federal law, a person convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year of imprisonment is generally prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. A violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) carries serious penalties, and federal sentencing is guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. In St. Mary’s County, these charges are not handled in the local District Court or Circuit Court but instead proceed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, which sits in Baltimore and Greenbelt. The federal court’s jurisdiction means that the rules, procedures, and potential outcomes differ significantly from what a person might experience in the Maryland state system.
The St. Mary’s County area―including Leonardtown, Lexington Park, and the surrounding communities―falls within a region served by the Baltimore and Greenbelt divisions. Federal investigations often involve search warrants executed by ATF, FBI, or DEA agents, and a federal grand jury may return an indictment. Once charged, a defendant faces a process that includes an initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge, arraignment, discovery, pretrial motions, and potentially a jury trial. Because federal conviction rates are high and there is no parole in the federal system, mounting a thorough defense early is critical. Our location in Rockville handles federal matters throughout Maryland, and we are available to meet with clients from St. Mary’s County by appointment.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Felon in Possession Cases
When Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is retained on a federal felon‑in‑possession matter, we begin with an intensive review of the government’s evidence. We examine whether law enforcement had lawful grounds for any stop, search, or seizure; whether any statements made by the client were obtained in violation of Miranda or other constitutional protections; and whether the predicate felony conviction qualifies as a crime that triggers the firearm disability. We also assess whether the item seized meets the statutory definition of a firearm and whether the government can prove the client knowingly possessed it.
Throughout the process, we engage with the Assistant U.S. Attorney assigned to the case to explore pre‑indictment resolutions, proffer sessions, or plea negotiations. If a plea agreement is not in the client’s best interest, we prepare for trial, including filing suppression motions, Daubert challenges, and motions in limine. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience, and Mr. Sris draws on his background as a former prosecutor to anticipate the government’s strategies. Results may vary. Our goal is to pursue a favorable outcome for each client, whether through dismissal, reduced charges, or a mitigated sentence.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris is Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., which he founded in 1997. Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, he has concentrated his practice on complex criminal defense for more than two decades. As a former prosecutor, he understands how the government builds cases, and he testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His five‑jurisdiction admission allows the firm to serve clients whose federal matters may intersect with state proceedings across multiple states.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are experienced litigators who handle criminal matters in federal and state courts. Together with Mr. Sris, they bring extensive combined legal experience to each representation. Results may vary. Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Maryland, including St. Mary’s County, by appointment. Reach us at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a federal felon in possession charge?
It is a federal crime for a person who has been convicted of a felony to knowingly possess a firearm or ammunition. The charge arises under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). The government must prove the defendant was previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year, that the defendant knew they possessed the firearm, and that the item traveled in or affected interstate commerce. Because federal penalties are severe and there is no parole in the federal system, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
How does a felon in possession case proceed in U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland?
The case begins with an investigation, often by federal agents, and may lead to an indictment, arraignment, pretrial motions, plea discussions, or a jury trial. After arrest or a summons, an initial appearance occurs before a federal magistrate judge. The court then schedules a detention hearing if the government seeks pretrial detention. Defense counsel reviews discovery, identifies potential motions to suppress evidence, and engages with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The timeline depends on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule.
What defenses are available for a felon in possession charge?
Possible defenses include challenging the legality of the search that led to the firearm’s discovery, contesting that the defendant knowingly possessed the item, or arguing that the predicate conviction does not qualify as a disabling felony. In some instances, restoration of rights or an expungement may eliminate the disability. Every case turns on its specific facts, and a thorough evaluation of police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence is essential to building a viable defense.
Can I be released on bond pending trial for a federal gun charge?
The court will decide whether you may be released pretrial based on factors such as risk of flight and danger to the community. Federal law allows for pretrial detention if no conditions of release can reasonably assure public safety and your appearance in court. Defense counsel can present evidence of community ties, employment, and compliance history to argue for release on conditions such as electronic monitoring or reporting requirements.
Do I need a lawyer if I am only under investigation for felon in possession?
Yes, speaking with a federal criminal defense lawyer as soon as you learn of an investigation can help protect your rights. Federal agents may attempt to interview you before charges are filed, and anything you say can be used against you. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf and work to present mitigating information that may influence charging decisions before an indictment is returned.
How do I contact a felon in possession lawyer in St. Mary’s County?
You can reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. by calling (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Our Maryland location in Rockville handles federal criminal cases throughout the state, including St. Mary’s County. We offer appointments by phone and in person. Early contact with the firm may help you understand the process and the legal options available.
For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Federal resources:
- U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland
- U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Maryland
- 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) – Federal Firearms Prohibitions
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.