Gun Possession Lawyer Georgetown, DC

Gun possession charges in Georgetown, Washington, D.C., are prosecuted actively by the United States Attorney’s Office for DC—a unique federal-local hybrid prosecution system. If you are facing a charge for carrying a pistol without a license, possession of an unregistered firearm, or a related weapons offense, the consequences can include a felony record, incarceration, and lifetime firearms prohibitions. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has represented defendants in DC criminal matters since 1997. He and his Of Counsel team bring extensive combined legal experience to gun possession cases. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Gun Possession Laws in Washington, D.C., and Georgetown

Washington, D.C.’s firearm laws are among the strictest in the country. Under D.C. Code Title 22, it is illegal to carry a pistol without a license, possess an unregistered firearm, or possess a firearm after a disqualifying conviction. These offenses are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for DC—a federal office—at DC Superior Court. Unlike most jurisdictions, DC does not use a traditional cash bail system; the Pretrial Services Agency assesses risk and recommends release conditions. This makes proactive early representation critical.

Other common gun-related charges include possession of an unregistered firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and felon in possession of a firearm. A conviction can lead to a felony record, substantial prison time, and a lifetime federal firearms disability under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). Given DC’s unique federal-local prosecution structure, defending against these charges requires an attorney familiar with both DC Superior Court procedure and federal sentencing principles. Our Arlington location is minutes from the courthouse, and Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly in its criminal division.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Defend Gun Possession Cases

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by examining every aspect of the stop and seizure—whether law enforcement had reasonable suspicion or probable cause, whether a search was conducted lawfully, and whether the firearm was discovered in violation of Fourth Amendment protections. In many DC gun cases, the evidence hinges on police observations, witness statements, and the circumstances surrounding the recovery of a weapon. A thorough review often identifies grounds to challenge the admission of evidence or to seek dismissal of the charges.

When suppression or dismissal is not available, the team works to negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction of charges or a disposition that avoids a felony conviction. Because DC’s Pretrial Services Agency often recommends supervised release, early intervention can shape the release conditions and the trajectory of the case. Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor gives him insight into how the government builds its cases, and his Of Counsel team leverages years of criminal defense experience to craft a defense aimed at achieving the most favorable outcome possible under the circumstances. Every case is prepared as though it will go to trial, which strengthens the defense’s position in any negotiation.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., established the firm in 1997. A former prosecutor, he is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His practice concentrates on complex criminal defense, including firearms offenses. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to every matter. The Of Counsel team includes seasoned defense attorneys who understand the procedural and evidentiary nuances of DC criminal law. The firm has documented case results since 1997. Results may vary. From the Arlington location, the team serves clients in Georgetown and throughout Washington, D.C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who prosecutes criminal cases in Washington, D.C.?

Criminal cases in DC are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for DC (USAO-DC), a federal prosecuting office. D.C. Is a federal district, and local offenses under the D.C. Code are handled by federal prosecutors. This differs from most states, where a local district attorney’s office prosecutes crimes. Cases are heard at DC Superior Court, located at 500 Indiana Avenue NW. The USAO-DC has significant resources, making robust legal defense essential from the earliest stage.

Does DC use cash bail?

No, D.C. Does not use a traditional cash bail system. Instead, the Pretrial Services Agency (a federal agency) evaluates each defendant and recommends release conditions to the court. Most defendants are released without posting money, but conditions can include supervision, drug testing, or stay-away orders. A defense attorney can advocate for the least restrictive conditions at the initial appearance and explain the PSA process to the client.

Can I get a gun possession charge dismissed in DC?

A gun possession charge may be dismissed if the evidence was obtained through an unlawful stop or search, or if the government cannot prove all elements beyond a reasonable doubt. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine the facts for constitutional violations—such as a warrantless search without probable cause—and file appropriate motions to suppress evidence. If key evidence is excluded, the prosecution may be unable to proceed, resulting in dismissal. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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

Carrying a pistol without a license in Washington, D.C., is a felony punishable by up to 5 years of imprisonment under D.C. Code Title 22. In addition to incarceration, a conviction results in a criminal record and a lifetime federal prohibition on possessing firearms. Other gun charges, such as possession of an unregistered firearm or felon in possession, carry equally serious penalties. Because of these severe consequences, retaining an experienced defense attorney as early as possible is critical.

Do I need a lawyer for a gun charge in Georgetown?

While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer, representing yourself in a DC gun possession case is extremely risky. The USAO-DC prosecutes these cases vigorously, and the procedural rules are complex. An experienced attorney can challenge the legality of the search, negotiate with the prosecutor, and protect your rights at every stage. Without counsel, you may miss opportunities to seek dismissal or a reduction of charges, and you could receive a harsher sentence than someone with representation.

How can a Georgetown gun possession lawyer help?

A Georgetown gun possession lawyer can investigate the case, identify constitutional violations, and build a defense tailored to the unique DC criminal justice system. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with the DC Superior Court and the prosecutors assigned to weapons cases. They can file motions to suppress evidence, negotiate for a diversion program when available, and, if necessary, present a strong defense at trial. Early involvement often leads to better outcomes.

Related pages:

• Washington, D.C. Criminal Lawyer
• Spring Valley Criminal Lawyer
• Cleveland Park Criminal Lawyer
• Chevy Chase Criminal Lawyer
• American University Park Criminal Lawyer

Official resources:

• D.C. Code Title 22 – Criminal Offenses and Penalties
• DC Superior Court – Criminal Division
• Pretrial Services Agency for the District of Columbia

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.