Firearms Possession Lawyer Navy Yard, DC

You’re a Navy Yard resident. Maybe you were stopped by Metropolitan Police near Nationals Park, or maybe a search of your apartment in the Capitol Riverfront turned up a firearm you weren’t supposed to have. Now you’re facing a firearms possession charge in Washington, D.C., and the ground feels unsteady. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor—and his Of Counsel team know how the U.S. Attorney’s Office builds these cases. We defend people in Navy Yard and throughout the District against weapons charges in DC Superior Court. Call (888) 437-7747 today to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

How We Approach a Firearms Possession Defense for Navy Yard Clients

Every firearms case starts with a close look at the stop, the search, and the evidence. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine whether the police had reasonable suspicion or probable cause, whether a warrant was properly supported, and whether any statements you made should be challenged. A well-prepared defense often begins with these constitutional questions. In DC, the Metropolitan Police Department enforces firearms laws actively, but they must follow the Fourth Amendment. When they don’t, we move to suppress.

We also evaluate the specific charge. Firearms possession in DC can mean carrying a pistol without a license, possession of an unregistered firearm, possession by a prohibited person, or possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Each carries different potential penalties and possible defenses. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel look at whether the firearm was actually in your possession, whether you had a valid out-of-state license that might apply under the circumstances, and whether the government can prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. Our goal is to achieve the most favorable outcome possible under the facts.

What to Expect When You’re Charged with a Gun Offense in DC

After an arrest, you’ll be brought before a DC Superior Court judge for presentment, usually within 24 hours. Unlike many states, DC does not use cash bail. Instead, the Pretrial Services Agency—a federal agency—conducts a risk assessment and recommends release conditions. Most first-time defendants charged with non-violent firearms possession are released with conditions like reporting to a pretrial officer or a curfew. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel will advocate for the least restrictive conditions at the very first appearance.

Your case will then proceed through status hearings, where the U.S. Attorney’s Office and your defense team discuss discovery, plea possibilities, and motions. If the case goes to trial, it’s heard at DC Superior Court’s Criminal Division, just a short Metro ride from Navy Yard via the Green Line to Judiciary Square. Trials are before a judge or a twelve-person jury. The entire timeline, from arrest to disposition, varies by case complexity, but the right defense strategy from the beginning can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissal or acquittal.

Understanding Firearms Possession Penalties Under DC Law

DC firearms laws carry serious consequences. For example, carrying a pistol without a license in violation of D.C. Code can result in up to five years of incarceration. Possession of an unregistered firearm also exposes you to significant jail time. If you have a prior felony conviction, a prohibited-person charge can lead to even harsher penalties, potentially including mandatory minimum sentences. A conviction can also permanently bar you from owning a firearm under federal law. Even a plea may have collateral consequences on your employment, security clearance, or immigration status. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel will explain every potential upshot before any decision is made.

DC also offers some avenues for alternative resolution. For certain first-offense, non-violent firearms charges, deferred sentencing or diversion programs may be available. Additionally, DC has a record-sealing process under D.C. Code § 16-803 that can seal some eligible records after a waiting period. We will explore every option that could help you put this behind you.

Why Navy Yard Residents Turn to Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. He began his legal career as a prosecutor and has been defending people in criminal cases since 1997. He is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). That legislative experience, combined with decades of trial work, gives him a nuanced perspective on criminal law.

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Their backgrounds include former prosecutors and defense attorneys who understand the DC court system. Our Arlington location serves Navy Yard clients by appointment. Because we handle a focused number of cases, Mr. Sris remains closely involved in every firearms matter the firm takes on.

Frequently Asked Questions About Firearms Possession Charges in DC

Who prosecutes a firearms possession case in Washington, D.C.?

Criminal cases in DC, including firearms possession, are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC). Because DC is a federal territory, federal prosecutors—not a local district attorney—bring charges under the D.C. Code. All local firearms cases are heard at DC Superior Court, located on Indiana Avenue NW, near Judiciary Square Metro.

Does DC have cash bail for gun charges?

No. DC does not use cash bail. Instead, the Pretrial Services Agency, a federal agency, assesses each defendant and recommends release conditions to the judge. Most people charged with a non-violent firearms offense are released without having to pay money, often with conditions like check-ins or a curfew. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel argue for the least restrictive conditions at the initial hearing.

What are the potential penalties for carrying a pistol without a license in DC?

A conviction for carrying a pistol without a license can carry up to five years in prison. Other firearms offenses, such as possession by a convicted felon, may result in even harsher penalties, including mandatory minimum terms. Beyond incarceration, a conviction can mean a permanent ban on firearm ownership and serious employment consequences. Each case is fact-specific, and an experienced attorney can assess the exposure you face.

Can a firearms possession charge in DC be sealed or expunged?

Yes, some DC firearms charges may be eligible for record sealing under D.C. Code § 16-803. Eligibility depends on factors like the final disposition of your case, whether you have other convictions, and the waiting period. If your case is dismissed or you are acquitted, sealing may be available sooner. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can evaluate whether your charge qualifies and guide you through the petition process at DC Superior Court.

What should I do if I’m under investigation for a firearms offense?

Do not speak with law enforcement without an attorney present. Immediately request a lawyer and do not answer any questions about the location of a firearm, how it was obtained, or your activities. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can evaluate the investigation, handle any communication with authorities, and work to protect your rights from the earliest stage.

How does a DC firearms charge differ from a federal charge?

A local DC firearms charge is brought under the D.C. Code in DC Superior Court, while a federal firearms charge is brought in U.S. District Court under Title 18 of the U.S. Code. Federal charges often carry longer mandatory minimum sentences and no parole. If your case involves crossing state lines or a federal agency like the ATF, you may face a federal prosecution. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel represent clients in both DC Superior Court and U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

How can a firearms possession defense lawyer help someone in Navy Yard?

A defense lawyer can challenge the legality of the stop, search, and seizure that led to the charge, negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal, and represent you at trial if necessary. For Navy Yard residents, having counsel familiar with the local MPD enforcement patterns and DC Superior Court practices can be critical. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly at DC Superior Court and work to build the strong $1 for each client.

What happens at the first court appearance after a gun arrest in DC?

The first court appearance is called presentment, where you are formally advised of the charge, your right to counsel, and the conditions of your release. The judge will review the Pretrial Services Agency report and decide whether to release you with conditions, hold you, or set other release terms. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can appear with you, argue for release on favorable terms, and begin building your defense immediately.

What defenses might apply to a firearms possession charge in DC?

Potential defenses include challenging the legality of the stop and search, establishing that you had a legally recognized license or that the firearm was not in your possession, or showing that the government’s evidence is insufficient. Each case is unique. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine every angle—from initial police contact to alleged witness statements—to identify the strong $1 theory.

How do I reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. about a firearms case in Navy Yard?

Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Our Arlington location serves Navy Yard and all of Washington, D.C. By appointment only. Phones are answered during business hours. A consultation allows us to learn the facts of your situation and explain how we can help.

Request a Consultation Today

If you are facing a firearms possession charge in Navy Yard or anywhere in Washington, D.C., call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are ready to discuss your case and work toward a favorable result. We appear at DC Superior Court regularly and understand the unique pressures of the District’s criminal justice system.

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Navy Yard and Washington, D.C. From our Arlington location
By appointment only. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule.
Available during business hours for criminal defense emergencies.

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.