Felon in Possession lawyer Anne Arundel County, MD
A federal search warrant is executed at a home in Glen Burnie, Anne Arundel County. Agents find a firearm in a nightstand belonging to a convicted felon. Within hours, the individual is in custody, facing a federal charge for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The case will be prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, and the consequences could include years in federal prison. If you or someone you care about is facing similar charges, contact an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Strategy Options for Felon in Possession Charges
Federal felon‑in‑possession prosecutions demand a defense that understands the intersection of federal criminal procedure, sentencing guidelines, and constitutional protections. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys approach each case by scrutinizing every phase of the government’s investigation and charges. They examine whether the search that uncovered the firearm complied with the Fourth Amendment, often challenging the warrant affidavit or the scope of the search. For clients whose predicate felony conviction is old or based on a state offense that has been modified, they investigate whether the conviction still qualifies under federal law—for example, whether it has been expunged, set aside, or restored civil rights. Factual defenses, such as lack of knowledge or absence of possession, are developed through discovery review and witness interviews. In appropriate cases, negotiation with the U.S. Attorney’s Office can lead to reduced charges or a plea agreement that mitigates sentencing exposure under the advisory guidelines.
The firm’s defense strategies also address pretrial detention. Federal law often demands that a defendant charged with a firearms offense be detained pending trial absent a strong showing. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys prepare comprehensive mitigation packets and propose conditions of release designed to convince the court that the client is not a danger and will appear. Early intervention is critical because the initial detention hearing shapes the trajectory of the entire case.
What to Expect When Facing Federal Charges in Anne Arundel County
Federal criminal cases in Anne Arundel County are not handled in the local district or circuit courts. Instead, they are filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, with proceedings typically held in the Baltimore or Greenbelt divisions. Federal investigations are conducted by agencies such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, HSI, and Secret Service, often working with state and local law enforcement. The process generally begins with an investigation, followed by a grand jury indictment after prosecutors present evidence. Once indicted, the defendant is arrested or summonsed to appear for an initial appearance before a magistrate judge. At that hearing, the court addresses bail and appoints counsel if needed.
The case then proceeds through arraignment, discovery, pretrial motions, and possibly a trial. Federal discovery rules require the government to disclose evidence, including exculpatory material. Defense counsel may file motions to suppress evidence, to dismiss the indictment, or for a bill of particulars. Many federal cases resolve through plea negotiations under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. If no plea is reached, a trial occurs before a district judge or a jury. If convicted, sentencing follows after the preparation of a presentence report. Throughout this process, having a federal defense attorney who regularly appears in the District of Maryland helps navigate the specific practices and expectations of the court and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The firm represents clients from across Anne Arundel County communities including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville. Our Rockville location serves the entire region—contact us at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.
Penalty Overview
A federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm carries severe consequences. Under federal law, there is no parole, and supervised release follows imprisonment. In many felon‑in‑possession cases, mandatory minimum prison terms apply—particularly under the Armed Career Criminal Act when the defendant has multiple prior serious drug or violent felony convictions. The advisory sentencing guidelines calculate a guideline range based on the offense level and criminal history category; though advisory after United States v. Booker, judges give substantial weight to the guidelines. Additionally, firearm‑related offenses can trigger asset forfeiture, fines, and restitution. Because the consequences can be life‑altering, informed counsel is essential from the earliest stage.
While the penalties are severe, outcomes vary. A strong defense can influence the government’s charging decisions, lead to dismissal, or secure a sentence below the advisory guideline range. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work to protect clients’ rights and pursue the most favorable resolution possible. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor with a thorough understanding of how federal and state authorities build cases. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and has been trying criminal cases since founding the firm in 1997. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His background equips him to anticipate prosecutorial strategy and construct vigorous defenses.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to every federal matter. Collectively, they have prosecuted and defended criminal cases, and their courtroom experience informs case evaluation, motion practice, and trial advocacy. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates on providing focused, multi‑state representation to individuals facing serious federal charges. The firm maintains a Rockville location to serve clients throughout Maryland, including Anne Arundel County. Reach our Rockville location at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is felon in possession under federal law?
Felon in possession under federal law is the crime of possessing a firearm or ammunition as a person who has been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year. The prosecution must prove that the defendant was a convicted felon, that the item met the definition of a firearm or ammunition, and that the defendant knowingly possessed it. Typical federal charges are brought under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). Conviction can result in up to 15 years in prison, or more if the Armed Career Criminal Act applies. Because federal law has no parole, early defense intervention is critical.
How does a federal lawyer defend against felon in possession charges?
A federal lawyer defends against felon‑in‑possession charges by attacking the legality of the search, challenging the government’s proof of possession, examining the predicate felony conviction, and negotiating for reduced charges or sentencing leniency. Attorneys may file motions to suppress evidence if the search violated the Fourth Amendment. They may also argue that the defendant did not know the item was a firearm or did not exercise dominion and control over it. In some cases, they might establish that the prior conviction does not legally qualify as a felony for purposes of § 922. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys tailor the defense to the specific facts of each case.
What should I do if I am facing felon in possession charges?
If you are facing felon in possession charges, immediately contact an experienced federal criminal defense attorney and do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. Avoid speaking to law enforcement without counsel present. Because federal prosecutors often move quickly to indict and seek pretrial detention, early legal representation can make a meaningful difference. For a consultation, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can a felon ever get their gun rights back?
A felon may regain firearm rights only through a limited federal process or a state expungement or rights‑restoration that fully restores civil rights, but the path is narrow and uncertain. Federal law provides a mechanism for restoration under the Gun Control Act, but Congress has not funded the program for decades, making it effectively unavailable. Some states offer restoration of rights, but even then, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) may not recognize such restoration for federal purposes. An attorney can evaluate the specific circumstances and advise whether any avenue exists.
How does the federal court system work in Maryland for Anne Arundel County cases?
Federal felony cases arising in Anne Arundel County are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, typically in the Baltimore or Greenbelt division, not in local county courts. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland handles the prosecution. Cases begin with investigation, grand jury indictment, initial appearance and detention hearing, arraignment, discovery, motions, trial or plea, and sentencing. The courthouse for Baltimore division is at 101 W. Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD. Appearing before the district judges requires familiarity with local rules and standing orders. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients throughout this process.
How long does a federal felon in possession case take?
The timeline for a federal felon in possession case varies significantly, but most cases progress from charge to resolution over a period of months to more than a year, depending on complexity and whether a trial is held. The Speedy Trial Act imposes certain deadlines, but many cases pause while motions are briefed or plea negotiations continue. Complex legal issues may extend the timeline. For a case‑specific estimate, discuss your situation with a lawyer during a consultation.
Can I get bail while facing federal firearms charges?
Bail is often harder to obtain in federal felon‑in‑possession cases because the offense carries a presumption of detention, but release may be possible with a strong presentation of ties to the community and conditions of supervision. At a detention hearing, the court considers the nature of the offense, the weight of the evidence, the defendant’s history and characteristics, and the risk of danger or flight. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys prepare thorough detention‑hearing materials to advocate for release under the least restrictive conditions.
What are the penalties for being a felon in possession of a firearm?
Penalties for a federal felon‑in‑possession conviction typically involve years in prison, supervised release, fines, and the loss of firearm rights. A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) may result in a sentence of up to 15 years, with a mandatory minimum of 15 years under the Armed Career Criminal Act if the defendant has three prior violent‑ or serious‑drug‑felony convictions. There is no parole in the federal system. The court may also impose restitution and asset forfeiture. Results vary; a skilled defense can influence charging and sentencing decisions.
How much does a federal criminal defense lawyer cost?
The cost of a federal criminal defense lawyer depends on the case’s complexity, the stage at which the attorney is retained, and the fee arrangement, but most federal practitioners charge an agreed‑upon fee rather than an hourly rate for trial‑level representation. A consultation allows the attorney to assess the facts and provide an estimate. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers consultations by appointment; call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation and learn about fee arrangements.
Why hire a federal criminal defense lawyer for Anne Arundel County?
Because federal practice is distinct from state court—with different rules, prosecutorial agencies, sentencing guidelines, and no parole—a lawyer experienced in federal criminal defense provides insight that local counsel may not offer. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland has substantial resources, and federal agencies conduct the investigations. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys handle federal matters throughout the state, including Anne Arundel County, and understand the procedural and strategic landscape. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
Can federal charges be reduced or dismissed?
Federal charges may be reduced or dismissed through early negotiation, successful pretrial motions, or cooperation agreements, but outcomes depend on the case’s facts and the government’s evidence. A defense attorney can seek dismissal if the indictment is defective, the evidence was obtained illegally, or the government fails to prove an element. In some cases, a client’s cooperation can lead to a reduced charge or a downward departure at sentencing. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys explore every avenue to improve the client’s position.
Contact a Felon in Possession Lawyer in Anne Arundel County, MD
Facing a federal firearms charge can be overwhelming. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys provide multi‑state federal defense representation. Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Anne Arundel County and across Maryland. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. By appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland Location
199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, Maryland 20850
Phone: (888) 437-7747
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.