Felon in Possession lawyer Worcester County, MD

If you are facing a federal charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm in Worcester County, Maryland, the stakes are serious. Federal prosecutors handle these cases actively, and a conviction can result in a lengthy prison sentence with no possibility of parole. Understanding how the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland operates—and having a defense strategy that accounts for the unique contours of federal law—can make a critical difference. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represent individuals throughout Worcester County, including Snow Hill, Ocean City, Berlin, Pocomoke City, Ocean Pines, and Bishopville, in federal criminal matters. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, founded the firm in 1997 and practices across multiple jurisdictions. To discuss your case and available defenses, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Federal Felon in Possession Charges Mean in Worcester County

A felon in possession charge arises when a person with a prior felony conviction is alleged to have knowingly possessed a firearm or ammunition. Federal law prohibits such possession, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland prosecutes these cases in federal court. In Worcester County, the relevant federal venue is the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, which sits in Baltimore and Greenbelt. Cases are investigated by agencies such as the FBI and ATF, and indictments are handed down by a federal grand jury.

Because the charge is federal, it is not handled in the Worcester County Circuit Court or District Court. Instead, federal procedural rules and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines govern the case. Convicted defendants face mandatory minimum sentences under the Armed Career Criminal Act in certain circumstances, and there is no parole in the federal system. The timeline of a case—from initial appearance through pretrial motions and potential trial—varies with the complexity of the evidence and the court’s calendar. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are experienced in navigating the distinct rhythms of federal court in the District of Maryland and in developing defense strategies tailored to the particular factual and legal issues that arise in firearm possession cases.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Federal Criminal Cases

When a client comes to Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Facing a federal felon in possession charge, the first priority is to secure the client’s pretrial release or address any issues with conditions of bond. The team then moves to a thorough review of the government’s evidence: the search or seizure that led to the discovery of the firearm, any statements made by the accused, and the chain of custody of the evidence. Constitutional challenges under the Fourth and Fifth Amendments are common in these cases, and Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have extensive experience litigating suppression issues in federal court.

Depending on the strength of the government’s case, the defense may focus on negotiating a favorable plea agreement or preparing for trial. Federal sentencing guidelines can be complex, and the defense may involve advocating for a downward departure or variance based on the client’s background and the circumstances of the offense. At every stage, the approach is informed by Mr. Sris’s former prosecutorial experience and the collective insight of the Of Counsel team, who bring a broad perspective to federal criminal defense. Because every case turns on its own facts, the firm’s analysis is always specific to the individual client and the particular charges.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris is Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., and has focused his practice on criminal defense since the firm’s founding in 1997. As a former prosecutor, he understands how federal agents and prosecutors build cases, which informs his approach to defending individuals charged in federal court. He is admitted to practice in Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His legislative involvement includes testimony before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Mr. Sris is supported by a team of Of Counsel attorneys who work collaboratively on federal criminal matters. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. The firm represents clients in federal court throughout Maryland, including Worcester County, from its Rockville location. Consultations are available by appointment; call (888) 437-7747 to speak with the team.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a federal felon in possession charge?

A federal felon in possession charge makes it a crime for any person with a prior felony conviction to knowingly possess a firearm or ammunition that has traveled in interstate commerce. The offense is prosecuted under federal law in U.S. District Court. The government must prove the defendant’s status as a prior felon, that the item qualified as a firearm, and that the defendant knowingly possessed it. Because the charge carries severe penalties and no possibility of parole, it is essential to consult with a federal criminal defense attorney who can evaluate whether the government’s evidence supports each element.

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

Penalties for a federal felon in possession conviction can include up to 10 years in prison under the basic statute, with mandatory minimum sentences that increase for defendants with prior violent felony or serious drug offense convictions. The Armed Career Criminal Act may impose a 15‑year mandatory minimum. Fines, restitution, and a period of supervised release following incarceration are also possible. Because federal sentencing guidelines are advisory, the actual sentence depends on the defendant’s criminal history category, the specific circumstances of the offense, and any successful arguments for a downward variance or departure.

Can a felon in possession charge be defended?

Yes, several defenses may be available depending on the facts of the case. Common strategies include challenging the legality of the search or seizure that uncovered the firearm, disputing the element of knowing possession, or attacking the reliability of witness testimony. Additionally, if the predicate felony is subject to restoration of rights or expungement, the government may be unable to prove the “prior felony” element. An experienced federal criminal defense attorney can identify the strong $1 approach after a thorough review of the evidence.

How does the federal criminal process work for a Worcester County case?

A Worcester County federal felon in possession case proceeds through the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, typically starting with a complaint or indictment and an initial appearance before a magistrate judge. If indicted, the defendant is arraigned, and the court sets a schedule for discovery and pretrial motions. The case may resolve through a plea agreement or proceed to trial before a district judge. Post‑trial, if the defendant is convicted, a sentencing hearing is held where the court considers the applicable guidelines, any departures, and the factors set out in 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a).

Do I need a lawyer for a federal felon in possession case?

While you have the right to represent yourself, federal felon in possession charges involve complex legal and procedural issues, and an adverse outcome can have life‑altering consequences. Working with a federal criminal defense attorney gives you the benefit of experience in navigating the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the federal sentencing guidelines, and the nuances of the district court. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can explain the charges, assess the strength of the government’s case, and guide you through each stage of the proceeding. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

How can Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel help with my case?

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys provide representation in federal court, from initial investigation through trial and, if necessary, appeal. They review the discovery, interview witnesses, file appropriate pretrial motions, and negotiate with federal prosecutors. Their combined experience allows them to identify weaknesses in the government’s case and to present a persuasive defense at every stage. To discuss your specific situation with the team, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Federal Court Resources:
U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland |
U.S. Courts

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. Consultations are by appointment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients from its Rockville, MD location. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.