Counterfeiting Of Obligations Or Securities Of The US Lawyer Richmond Virginia — What Are Your Federal Defense Options?
Counterfeiting obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia. A conviction can result in decades in federal prison and substantial fines. If you are under investigation or have been charged, securing a skilled criminal attorney is critical. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Richmond County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Law on Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations and Securities
The primary federal statute addressing this crime is 18 U.S.C. § 471. This law makes it illegal to falsely make, forge, counterfeit, or alter any obligation or security of the United States with the intent to defraud. “Obligations” include currency, treasury notes, and bonds, while “securities” can refer to stocks, bonds, or other financial instruments issued under U.S. authority. The statute is broad and covers both the creation of counterfeit items and the possession of tools used for counterfeiting. The Eastern District of Virginia, which includes Richmond, is known for its experienced prosecutors in financial crimes. You can review the official statute on the U.S. Code website.
Potential Penalties for Counterfeiting Federal Instruments
In federal court, counterfeiting obligations or securities of the United States carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and fines of up to $250,000.
| 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 | Asset forfeiture, permanent criminal record, loss of professional licenses |
| Possession of Counterfeiting Tools (18 U.S.C. § 474) | Federal Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $250,000 | Same as above |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Building a Defense Against Federal Counterfeiting Charges
Defending against charges of counterfeiting obligations or securities of the US requires a detailed understanding of federal procedure and evidence rules. Common defense strategies include challenging the intent element, arguing a lack of knowledge that the items were counterfeit, questioning the chain of custody of evidence, or filing motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search. An experienced criminal court lawyer will scrutinize every aspect of the government’s case, from the forensic analysis of the alleged counterfeit items to the conduct of federal agents during the investigation.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: Discuss the details of the investigation or indictment with your defense lawyer to identify immediate risks and procedural deadlines.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: Your attorney will obtain all discovery from the prosecution, including forensic reports, witness statements, and agent notes.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence or to dismiss charges if constitutional rights were violated.
- Negotiation & Strategy: Explore all options, which may include negotiating a plea to a lesser charge or preparing for trial if the government’s case is weak.
- Trial Defense: If the case proceeds to trial, present a vigorous defense focused on creating reasonable doubt about intent or knowledge.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Criminal Charges Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally oversees complex federal matters, providing strategic direction. Our team understands the high stakes of federal court and is committed to providing a thorough and aggressive defense for every client.
For federal criminal charges defense in Richmond, our team also includes experienced counsel like Matthew Greene, who brings over 30 years of experience, including former certification for death penalty cases and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria.
Local Federal Defense for Richmond, Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah Valley Location — 505 N Main St, Ste 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (540) 459-6190
By appointment only.
Our Shenandoah Valley location serves Richmond County and the Northern Neck. We are accessible to clients in Warsaw, Montross, and Tappahannock. Facing federal charges for counterfeiting obligations or securities of the US requires immediate action from a qualified criminal attorney. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only at our office locations.
FAQs on Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations and Securities Charges
What does “obligations or securities of the United States” mean?
It refers to U.S. currency, Treasury notes, bonds, stamps, and other financial instruments issued under U.S. authority, as well as stocks and bonds of U.S. corporations or government bodies.
Is possessing a counterfeit bill a federal crime?
Yes, if you know it is counterfeit and intend to use it. Mere possession without intent to defraud may be a lesser charge, but any interaction with counterfeit currency should be discussed with a defense lawyer immediately.
What is the difference between state and federal counterfeiting charges?
Federal charges apply to counterfeiting U.S. government instruments and are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in federal court, which has much harsher penalties. State charges might apply to forging checks or documents, but counterfeiting federal obligations is exclusively a federal crime with more severe consequences.
What should I do if I’m contacted by the Secret Service about counterfeiting?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with a criminal attorney. The U.S. Secret Service investigates counterfeiting, and anything you say can be used against you. Do not attempt to explain or justify anything without legal counsel present.
Can I get a plea deal in a federal counterfeiting case?
It depends. The possibility of a plea agreement depends on the strength of the evidence, your criminal history, and the specifics of your case. An experienced federal defense lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors, potentially to reduce charges or recommend a lower sentence.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.