Federal Firearms Lawyer New Jersey — Your Defense in U.S. District Court
Federal firearms charges in New Jersey are prosecuted in U.S. District Court under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), carrying severe penalties. As a Federal Firearms Lawyer New Jersey, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense against charges like felon in possession. Our firm, founded in 1997, has a documented history of handling complex federal cases. You need a lawyer who understands the federal system.
Federal Firearms Charges Under U.S. Law
Federal firearms offenses are not state crimes; they are violations of the United States Code, prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. The primary statute is 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), which prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by certain categories of persons, including convicted felons, individuals subject to domestic violence restraining orders, and unlawful drug users. Other common charges include dealing firearms without a license (18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(1)) and making false statements during a firearm purchase (18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(6)). These cases are investigated by federal agencies like the ATF, FBI, or DEA.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | Federal Criminal Code
Official Federal Legal Resources
Understanding the law is critical. You can review the official federal statutes at the U.S. Code, Title 18, Section 922 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For procedures and local rules in New Jersey’s federal courts, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
The Federal Firearms Defense Process in New Jersey
A federal firearms case follows a distinct path. The investigation often involves undercover operations, surveillance, or forensic analysis. If charged, you will appear in U.S. District Court in Newark, Trenton, or Camden. The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines heavily influence potential penalties, making early strategic defense essential. A firearms offense defense lawyer New Jersey from our firm focuses on challenging the legality of searches, the chain of custody of evidence, and the specific intent required for the charge.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: We analyze the indictment and all discovery from the U.S. Attorney’s office to identify weaknesses.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Filing motions to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment is a common and critical step.
- Negotiation & Strategy: We engage with federal prosecutors, often seeking to have charges reduced or dismissed based on evidentiary issues.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea agreement is not in your best interest, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial before a federal judge or jury.
- Sentencing Advocacy: If convicted, we advocate for the most favorable sentence under the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
- Appeal: We evaluate grounds for appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.
Potential Penalties for Federal Firearms Crimes
In New Jersey federal court, a conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, plus substantial fines and a period of supervised release.
| Offense | Federal Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felon in Possession (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | 3-year supervised release, loss of firearm rights permanently |
| Firearms Trafficking | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years (per firearm) | Up to $250,000 | Asset forfeiture, supervised release |
| False Statement on ATF Form 4473 | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Federal Defense Team
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal courtrooms. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the high stakes of federal prosecutions and the unique strategies required to defend against them. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we are prepared to defend clients throughout the District of New Jersey.
Our Approach to Federal Firearms Cases
We have a documented history of handling federal criminal defenses. A gun charge defense lawyer New Jersey from our firm begins by meticulously reviewing the government’s evidence. We look for violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation, such as illegal searches or seizures. We challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove every element of the charge, including your knowledge and possession of the firearm. In every case, we explore all options, from pre-trial motions to suppress evidence to negotiating for favorable plea terms or preparing for trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Federal Firearms Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients across all 21 counties, including Hunterdon, Somerset, and Bergen. We are accessible to those facing charges in the Newark, Trenton, and Camden federal courthouses.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only. We serve communities including Flemington, Somerville, Morristown, Hackensack, and Freehold.
Federal Firearms Lawyer New Jersey FAQ
What is the most common federal firearms charge in New Jersey?
The most common charge is “felon in possession of a firearm” under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). It prohibits anyone with a prior felony conviction from possessing any firearm or ammunition that has traveled in interstate commerce.
Is there parole in the federal system?
No. The federal system abolished parole in 1987. Time served is determined by the judge at sentencing, minus a maximum of 15% for good behavior. This makes a strong defense and sentencing advocacy critically important.
Can I beat a federal firearms charge?
It depends. Defenses often focus on challenging the legality of the search that found the firearm, proving you did not knowingly possess it, or arguing the item was not a functional firearm under federal law. An experienced Federal Firearms Lawyer New Jersey can identify the best defense strategy for your specific case.
What is the difference between state and federal gun charges?
State charges are prosecuted under New Jersey law in Superior Court. Federal charges are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys under U.S. Code in U.S. District Court. Federal penalties are often more severe, there is no parole, and cases are investigated by agencies like the ATF with greater resources.
How long does a federal firearms case take?
A typical case can take 6 to 18 months from indictment to resolution. The Speedy Trial Act sets deadlines, but complex cases involving extensive evidence or co-defendants can take longer, potentially 1-3 years.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our New Jersey Federal Criminal Defense hub page. If you are also facing related state charges, consider reading about criminal defense in Hunterdon County. For other legal needs, explore our services in business law for Bergen County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.