Federal gun crimes in Washington County, Maryland, are prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) and carry severe penalties including up to 10 years in federal prison for unlawful possession by a prohibited person. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — has extensive criminal defense experience in federal court. A Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Washington County is essential to handle these complex charges.
Federal Gun Crime Lawyer in Washington County, Maryland
Understanding Federal Gun Crime Laws in Washington County
Federal gun crimes are governed by 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), which prohibits certain individuals from possessing firearms or ammunition. This includes persons convicted of a felony, fugitives from justice, unlawful users of controlled substances, individuals adjudicated as mentally defective, and those subject to certain domestic violence protective orders. Violations are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, with cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. A Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Washington County can help you understand the specific charges you face.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) (Cornell LII — official site)
Official Legal References
For authoritative information on federal gun laws, consult the following official government sources:
Insider Perspective on Federal Gun Crime Defense in Washington County
In the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, federal prosecutors routinely pursue charges under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) with aggressive sentencing enhancements. We have observed that the government often relies on prior convictions and drug-related evidence to establish prohibited status.
- Step 1: Immediately invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney.
- Step 2: Contact a Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Washington County for a case evaluation.
- Step 3: Do not discuss your case with anyone except your legal counsel.
- Step 4: Preserve all evidence and documentation related to your case.
- Step 5: Attend all court hearings and comply with pretrial conditions.
- Step 6: Work with your attorney to develop a defense strategy, which may include challenging the search, negotiating a plea, or preparing for trial.
In Washington County, federal gun crimes under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and supervised release.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of Firearm (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms license revoked | Supervised release up to 3 years; loss of voting rights; ineligibility for federal benefits |
| Unlawful User of Controlled Substances in Possession (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3)) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms license revoked | Supervised release up to 3 years; mandatory drug treatment |
| Possession of Firearm in Drug Trafficking Crime (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearms license revoked | No parole; supervised release up to 5 years |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Federal Gun Crime Defense?
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Our firm, operating under the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders,” has the resources and experience to handle complex federal gun crime cases in Washington County.
Our team understands the federal court system and the strategies used by U.S. Attorneys. We provide personalized attention and aggressive representation to protect your rights and future.
Your Federal Gun Crime Defense Team
Proven Results in Federal Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive documented results in federal criminal defense across Maryland. While specific Washington County federal gun crime case counts are not available, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Rockville, MD is approximately 70 miles from the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland (Baltimore Division), with access via I-70 and I-81. We serve the communities of Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Sharpsburg, Hancock, and Funkstown.
Looking for a firearms offense defense lawyer Washington County or a gun charge defense lawyer Washington County? We are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: 199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850 | (888) 437-7747
Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Gun Crimes in Washington County
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical. Cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland under the Federal Criminal Code (18 U.S.C.) and Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Washington County, Maryland?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Washington County (36 W. Antietam Street, Suite 200, Hagerstown, MD 21740). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period).
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Washington County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases in Washington County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Washington County).
What happens after a criminal arrest in Washington County, Maryland?
After arrest in Washington County: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at District Court of MD for Washington County (36 W. Antietam Street, Suite 200, Hagerstown, MD 21740). Felonies go to Washington County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Washington County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault: up to 10 years; theft $100-$1,500: up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Washington County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
Related Legal Resources
For more information on criminal defense in Maryland, explore our resources:
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury (State hub)
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County (Sibling page)
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County (Sibling page)
- Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County (Sibling page)
Last verified: May 2026