Felon in Possession lawyer Howard County, MD

Being investigated or charged with a federal firearm offense such as felon in possession in Howard County, Maryland is a serious matter. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland prosecutes these cases actively, and the penalties under the federal sentencing guidelines can include significant prison time without the possibility of parole. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals who are facing federal criminal charges, including firearm possession by a convicted felon, throughout Howard County and the surrounding region. If you have been contacted by federal agents or received a target letter, understanding how these cases proceed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland is essential to protecting your rights. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive legal experience to federal defense. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Felon in Possession Means in Howard County

Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition. A “felon in possession” charge, typically prosecuted under Title 18 of the United States Code, is filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, which handles federal cases arising in Howard County along with the rest of the state. The court has divisions in Baltimore and Greenbelt. Howard County residents who are accused of possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction will have their matter adjudicated in one of those divisions, depending on the assigned judge and the nature of the charges.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland works with federal investigative agencies, including the ATF and the FBI, to build these cases. Often, a felon-in-possession charge arises during another investigation, such as a drug trafficking probe or a domestic disturbance that crosses into federal jurisdiction. The federal system has no parole, and the United States Sentencing Guidelines, while advisory, strongly influence the sentence a judge imposes. The court will consider factors such as the defendant’s criminal history, the nature of the firearm, and whether the weapon was used in connection with another crime. Early engagement with experienced defense counsel can affect how these factors are developed and presented.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Felon in Possession Cases

When a person becomes aware of a federal investigation or is indicted for felon in possession in Howard County, the first priority is often to address pretrial release and the conditions of supervision. The federal system uses a presumption of detention in some circumstances, and the government will argue that the defendant poses a danger to the community. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work to present a strong release package that includes community ties, employment verification, and proposed supervision terms. The goal is to secure the client’s release pending trial so that they can participate in their defense and maintain their family and work obligations while the case moves forward.

As the case proceeds, the defense team examines the government’s evidence, including the basis for the stop or search that led to the firearm discovery. Federal agents may have used a search warrant or relied on exigent circumstances; challenging the legality of the search can sometimes lead to suppression of the firearm. The firm’s attorneys also evaluate whether the government can prove the predicate felony conviction and whether any exceptions or constitutional challenges apply. Because federal sentencing guidelines can impose a lengthy term of imprisonment, the defense may also look for grounds for a downward departure or variance, such as a minimal criminal history or acceptance of responsibility. Throughout the process, the firm works to ensure that the client understands each step, including the potential impact of trial versus a negotiated resolution.

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

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced since 1997 and is a former prosecutor. His background provides insight into how the government constructs a federal firearm case, from the initial investigation to the charging decision. He has represented clients in federal courts throughout Maryland and Virginia. 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 Of Counsel attorneys further strengthen the defense team with additional courtroom experience and a collaborative approach to case preparation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates its federal criminal practice on representing individuals in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, including those in Howard County who are facing felon‑in‑possession allegations. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive legal experience. Results may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a federal felon in possession charge?

A federal felon in possession charge is a criminal offense alleging that a person convicted of a felony knowingly possessed a firearm or ammunition in violation of federal law. The charge is prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, and the government must prove the prior felony conviction and that the defendant knowingly possessed the item. Even possession of a single round of ammunition can trigger the charge. An experienced defense attorney can examine whether the prior conviction qualifies as a predicate felony and whether the possession was knowing and voluntary.

Where are federal felon in possession cases heard for Howard County residents?

Howard County felon in possession cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, primarily at the Baltimore or Greenbelt divisions. While the District Court for Howard County handles state‑level criminal matters, any federal charge—including firearm offenses—is adjudicated in the federal courthouse. The assigned judge and the specific division depend on the case type and the court’s internal docketing procedures. The firm’s attorneys are familiar with both divisions and can explain what to expect at each stage, from the initial appearance before a magistrate judge through sentencing.

How do the federal sentencing guidelines apply to a felon in possession case?

The United States Sentencing Guidelines provide a points‑based calculation that uses the defendant’s offense level and criminal history category to determine a recommended sentence range. For a felon‑in‑possession conviction, the base offense level varies depending on factors such as the type of firearm and whether the defendant had a prior felony conviction for a crime of violence or a controlled substance offense. Adjustments may apply for acceptance of responsibility or for obstruction of justice. While the guidelines are advisory, judges in the District of Maryland give them substantial weight, and a federal sentence almost always involves a term of imprisonment followed by a period of supervised release. Because there is no parole in the federal system, the length of the sentence is critical.

Can a federal felon in possession charge be dismissed?

A felon in possession charge can be dismissed if the government’s evidence is suppressed as a result of an illegal search or seizure, or if the government cannot establish an element of the offense. For example, if the predicate felony conviction does not meet the statutory definition, or if the defendant did not knowingly possess the firearm, the charge may be dismissed or reduced. The defense may also challenge the indictment if it fails to state an offense. Each case turns on its specific facts, and an experienced federal criminal attorney can evaluate whether grounds exist to seek dismissal.

What should I do if I am being investigated for felon in possession in Howard County?

If you are being investigated for felon in possession in Howard County, do not speak with law enforcement agents without an attorney present and contact a federal defense lawyer immediately. Federal agents may attempt to interview you before charges are filed, and anything you say can be used against you. You have the right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present during questioning. Early representation can influence whether charges are filed, can protect your rights during the investigative stage, and can help you understand your options if you receive a target letter or grand jury subpoena.

Do I need a lawyer if I am already a convicted felon and the firearm was not mine?

Even if you believe the firearm did not belong to you, you need a lawyer because the government can proceed on a theory of constructive possession. Constructive possession means that you had the power and intent to exercise control over the firearm, even if it was not physically on your person at the time of discovery. For instance, a firearm found in a shared residence or vehicle can result in charges against multiple individuals. A defense attorney can challenge the government’s ability to prove the requisite knowledge and control beyond a reasonable doubt and can also explore whether other individuals may have been responsible.

What are the potential penalties for a federal felon in possession conviction?

A conviction for felon in possession can carry a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison, although the actual sentence may be higher or lower based on the sentencing guidelines and any statutory enhancements. Certain aggravating factors, such as possessing a firearm in connection with another felony or having multiple prior convictions for violent felonies, can increase the potential maximum penalty under the Armed Career Criminal Act or other statutes. In addition to incarceration, a conviction can result in fines, forfeiture of the firearm, and a term of supervised release. Because both the guidelines and any mandatory minimums can significantly affect the outcome, obtaining specific advice from defense counsel is essential.

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