Federal gun crimes in Somerset County, Maryland, are prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), which prohibits firearm possession by certain individuals, carrying up to 10 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. A Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Somerset County can help you handle these serious charges.
Federal Gun Crime Lawyer in Somerset County, Maryland
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) makes it unlawful for any person who has been convicted of a felony, is under indictment, is a fugitive from justice, is an unlawful user of controlled substances, has been adjudicated as mentally defective, or is subject to certain domestic violence restraining orders to possess, receive, or transport any firearm or ammunition. Violations are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, which has jurisdiction over Somerset County. A conviction under § 922(g) carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, with enhanced penalties for repeat offenders or when the firearm is used in connection with drug trafficking or crimes of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). 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)
For the full text of the federal firearms statute, visit the official U.S. Code: 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) (Cornell LII). For Maryland-specific firearms laws, see the Maryland Code: Md. Code, Criminal Law § 4-101 (Maryland General Assembly — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, prosecutors routinely seek enhanced penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) when a firearm is used during a drug trafficking crime or crime of violence. We have observed that federal agents in Somerset County often coordinate with the ATF and local law enforcement for investigations.
- Do not consent to any search of your home, vehicle, or person without a warrant.
- Invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately upon arrest.
- Preserve all evidence, including receipts, texts, and emails that may show lawful possession.
- Contact a Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Somerset County before any court appearance.
- Review the indictment for potential constitutional violations, such as illegal search and seizure.
- Prepare for a possible detention hearing under the Bail Reform Act of 1984.
In Somerset County, federal gun crimes under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) and § 924(c) carry severe penalties including mandatory minimum sentences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession of Firearm (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | Supervised release up to 3 years; loss of voting rights; ineligibility for federal benefits |
| Use of Firearm During Drug Trafficking Crime (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (consecutive) | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | Supervised release up to 5 years; asset forfeiture; no parole |
| Possession of Firearm by Unlawful User of Controlled Substances (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal firearm prohibition | Supervised release up to 3 years; mandatory drug testing |
Results may vary.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Somerset County and throughout Maryland. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case 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 in Rockville, MD is approximately 120 miles from the District Court of MD for Somerset County, with access via Route 13 and Route 413. Serving the communities of Princess Anne, Crisfield, Westover, Marion Station, and Deal Island. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Near-me phrase: federal gun crime lawyer near Somerset County.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
(888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Gun Crimes in Somerset 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.
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, with cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. Federal penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) and § 924(c) carry mandatory minimums and no parole. An experienced Federal Gun Crime Lawyer Somerset County is essential for handling these complex proceedings.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Somerset 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 Somerset County (30512 Prince William Street, Princess Anne, MD 21853). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Somerset County, Maryland?
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 Somerset County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Somerset County). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Somerset County, Maryland?
After arrest in Somerset 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 Somerset County (30512 Prince William Street, Princess Anne, MD 21853). Felonies go to Somerset County Circuit Court. Bail set by District Court commissioner at initial appearance; Maryland permits pretrial release on personal recognizance, bail, or conditions of release; bail review hearing in District Court within 24 hours if detained; public defender eligibility based on income; court costs: approximately $22.50-$55. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Somerset County, Maryland?
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 Somerset County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
How does a Maryland lawyer defend against drug-related federal crimes charges?
Defense strategies for drug-related federal crimes in Maryland may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing drug-related federal crimes charges in Maryland?
If facing drug-related federal crimes charges in Maryland, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under federal law require prompt action.
For more information about criminal defense in Maryland, visit our Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury hub page. You may also be interested in our Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County and Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County pages. For related practice areas, see our Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County page.
Last verified: May 2026. This page was generated on 2026-05-01.