Gun Possession Lawyer Washington DC
You were in Washington, D.C., when Metropolitan Police stopped you. You now face a gun possession charge—and a legal system unlike any other in the country. In D.C., the United States Attorney’s Office prosecutes local crimes, and the Pretrial Services Agency, not a traditional cash‑bail system, determines whether you remain free while your case moves forward. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys understand how to defend against weapons charges in D.C. Superior Court. To discuss your situation, call (888) 437-7747.
What Gun Possession Means in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C.’s gun‑possession laws are layered and carry serious consequences. Because the District is a federal territory, most local criminal offenses—including weapons violations—are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Cases are heard at D.C. Superior Court, Criminal Division, located at 500 Indiana Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20001. Defense of a gun charge in this court requires familiarity with both the D.C. Code and the procedures unique to a federal‑prosecutor‑driven local court.
The most common charge is carrying a pistol without a license, which is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison under D.C. Code Title 22. Other weapons‑related offenses include unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of unregistered firearms, and carrying a dangerous weapon. Even a seemingly minor infraction can result in a permanent criminal record and the loss of firearm rights. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys who handle criminal matters in D.C. Work to identify procedural and constitutional defenses early, knowing how federal‑style prosecution can influence the case trajectory.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Gun Possession Cases
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who built a multi‑state firm practicing since 1997. With the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, he concentrates on criminal defense in D.C. And across the five jurisdictions where the firm is admitted. The team’s approach to a gun‑possession charge begins with a rigorous review of the stop, search, and seizure—often the foundation of a strong defense. If law enforcement lacked reasonable suspicion or probable cause, evidence may be challenged and charges potentially reduced or dismissed.
In D.C., the Pretrial Services Agency conducts a risk assessment that influences release conditions without a money‑bail system. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys understand how to present information to the agency and the court to support community‑based release. When negotiation with the U.S. Attorney’s Office is appropriate, they work to seek a dismissal, a deferred‑disposition agreement, or a reduction to a non‑incarceratory outcome. If trial is necessary, the firm’s experience in D.C. Superior Court—from motions practice to jury selection—is applied to protect the client’s rights. The firm’s representation extends beyond disposition; counsel also advise on record‑sealing eligibility under D.C. Code § 16‑803 where applicable.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been representing clients in criminal defense matters since 1997. A former prosecutor, he is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, 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).
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring substantial courtroom experience to Washington, D.C. Gun‑possession cases. They are independent, non‑employee attorneys who contract directly with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., and include practitioners with deep familiarity with D.C. Superior Court practice and the unique federal‑local hybrid prosecution model. The firm’s Arlington location—1655 Fort Myer Drive, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209—serves D.C. Clients by appointment. Spanish‑language consultations are available. To speak with Mr. Sris or a member of the firm’s Of Counsel team, call (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who prosecutes gun possession cases in Washington, D.C.?
Gun possession cases in Washington, D.C., are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, not a local district attorney. Because D.C. Is a federal territory, the U.S. Attorney uses the D.C. Code to charge local crimes in D.C. Superior Court. Cases are investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department or other agencies. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are experienced in handling matters where the U.S. Attorney brings local charges, understanding the intersection of federal prosecution practices and local court procedures.
What are the penalties for carrying a pistol without a license in D.C.?
Carrying a pistol without a license in the District of Columbia is a felony offense punishable by up to five years in prison. Additional consequences may include a permanent criminal record, loss of the right to possess firearms under federal law, and difficulty with employment or professional licensing. The actual sentence can depend on factors such as criminal history, the circumstances of the offense, and whether a negotiated disposition is reached. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work to pursue dismissal, reduction of charges, or alternative sentencing where possible.
Can I get a gun possession charge dismissed in D.C.?
A gun possession charge in D.C. May be dismissed if the prosecution cannot meet its burden or if constitutional defenses succeed. Common grounds for dismissal include an unlawful stop or search, lack of evidence that the defendant knowingly possessed the weapon, or a valid license defense. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys review every detail of the police investigation to identify such challenges. In some situations, negotiation with the U.S. Attorney’s Office can result in a deferred disposition or dismissal after a period of compliance with court‑imposed conditions. Results may vary.
Does D.C. Have cash bail for gun charges?
No, Washington, D.C. Does not use a cash‑bail system. Instead, the Pretrial Services Agency—a federal agency—assesses every arrested person and makes a release recommendation to the court. The agency evaluates factors such as ties to the community, employment, and prior court appearances. The court then decides whether the person will be released on personal recognizance, with supervision, or detained pending trial. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys present information to the agency and the court to advocate for the least restrictive release conditions.
What should I do if I am arrested for illegal gun possession in D.C.?
If you are arrested for illegal gun possession in Washington, D.C., exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. Do not make statements to the police about the weapon or the circumstances of your arrest. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The firm’s toll‑free line at (888) 437-7747 is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Do I need a lawyer for a gun possession charge in D.C.?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer for a gun possession charge, but having experienced counsel can significantly affect the outcome. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in D.C. Pursues weapons charges actively, and even a first offense can result in a felony conviction and prison time. An attorney can identify weaknesses in the government’s case, negotiate with the prosecutor, and advise on options such as diversion or record sealing after a successful outcome. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys focus on protecting clients’ rights at every stage of the D.C. Superior Court process. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.
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