Charged, in plea negotiations, preparing to go to federal prison or need post-conviction relief?
Charged, in plea negotiations, preparing to go to federal prison or need post-conviction relief?
In federal law, a 924(c) charge (under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)) is a separate criminal offense that involves using or carrying a firearm during—and in relation to—a crime of violence or drug trafficking offense, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of such crimes. This charge usually carries mandatory consecutive prison terms (e.g., five years for a first offense, seven if the firearm is brandished, etc.), which must be served in addition to the penalty for the underlying offense. The court has absolutely no ability to circumvent an additional consecutive mandatory sentence.
Once in the BOP, you will NOT be eligible for RDAP early release and cannot earn or apply FSA time credits to shorten the sentence.
By contrast to 924(c), a federal gun enhancement refers to a sentencing enhancement under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. It does not create a separate crime; instead, it increases the defendant’s sentence within the guideline range for an existing offense if a firearm was involved. Unlike 924(c), this enhancement is applied at sentencing for the primary offense rather than functioning as a standalone charge. While it still raises the overall punishment, it does not mandate a separate, consecutive sentence in the way a 924(c) conviction does.
Once in the BOP, you will be eligible for RDAP early release, FSA time credits, elderly offender home detention and compassionate release.
At Clear Path, we understand what you are going through because we have been in your position, and we genuinely care. Although attorneys will handle your case, they have never experienced your personal situation.
Our firsthand knowledge covers white-collar, drug, conspiracy and gun charges, as well as serving time in all federal prison environments—from penitentiaries to medium, low-security facilities, and camps.
Every aspect of your life will be affected by how your plea and sentencing proceedings are managed - this begins with us empowering you.