Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Clarke County, Virginia
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a defense lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Federal Statute for Counterfeiting U.S. Securities
Counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities is a federal crime defined in Title 18 of the U.S. Code. The primary statute is 18 U.S.C. § 471, which makes it illegal to falsely make, forge, counterfeit, or alter any obligation or security of the United States with intent to defraud. This includes currency, bonds, treasury notes, and other government instruments. The law is enforced by federal agencies like the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | U.S. Code
Official Government Resources
For the exact language of the federal statute, refer to the official 18 U.S.C. § 471 (U.S. House of Representatives). For local federal court procedures and rules, visit the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia website.
Federal Defense Strategy in Clarke County
Federal cases for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US in Clarke County are typically investigated by the Secret Service or FBI and prosecuted in the Western District of Virginia federal court in Roanoke. A successful defense requires challenging the intent to defraud and the authenticity of the evidence. Our firm’s approach involves meticulous review of discovery, filing pre-trial motions to suppress evidence, and negotiating with federal prosecutors.
- Initial federal investigation contact by Secret Service or FBI.
- Grand jury indictment or filing of a criminal information.
- Arraignment and plea in U.S. District Court.
- Extensive discovery and pre-trial motion phase.
- Plea negotiations or preparation for federal jury trial.
- Sentencing under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines if convicted.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In the federal system, Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations/Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture, permanent federal record, loss of rights. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Federal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys, including Mr. Sris, have over 120 years of combined legal experience handling complex federal matters. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, personally leads on intricate federal criminal defense cases, bringing a strategic understanding of both sides of the courtroom.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US in Clarke County are not listed, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We approach each federal case with the same rigorous defense strategy. Our secondary attorney for federal criminal defense in Virginia is Matthew Greene, who brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Clarke County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing federal charges in Clarke County. We are accessible for meetings by appointment. Serving the communities of Berryville and Boyce.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Charges
What does “Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US” mean?
It is a federal crime involving the fraudulent creation or alteration of U.S. government financial instruments like currency, bonds, or treasury notes with intent to deceive, under 18 U.S.C. § 471.
What court handles these charges for Clarke County residents?
These are federal charges. Clarke County residents would be prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, typically in the Roanoke courthouse, not in Clarke County state courts.
Do I need a criminal court lawyer or a federal attorney?
You absolutely need a criminal attorney with specific experience in federal court procedure and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. Federal practice is distinct from state court, and the penalties are often more severe.
What are the possible defenses to these criminal charges?
Potential defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or procedural violations during the investigation. A skilled defense lawyer will examine all aspects of the government’s case.
What should I do if I’m contacted by federal agents?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with a federal criminal defense attorney. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Exercise these rights before making any statements.
Internal Links: For more on federal defense, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer hub. For related local defense, consider a Henrico County criminal defense lawyer or a Clarke County DUI lawyer.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If you want to see how a Clarke County case fits into the wider process, our page on counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US lawyer Virginia covers it from start to finish.