Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Warren County, Virginia
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, punishable by up to 20 years in prison. If you are under investigation or charged in Warren County, you need a federal criminal attorney with experience in the Eastern District of Virginia. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Federal Law on Counterfeiting US Obligations or Securities
The federal statute criminalizing the counterfeiting of US obligations and securities is 18 U.S.C. § 471. This law makes it a crime to falsely make, forge, counterfeit, or alter any obligation or security of the United States with the intent to defraud. This includes US currency, Treasury bonds, notes, bills, and other government securities. The statute is part of a broader set of laws aimed at protecting the integrity of the US financial system.
Last verified: April 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Virginia General Assembly
Official Government Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Counterfeiting and Forgery). For information on federal court procedures in Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Local Federal Court Process for Counterfeiting Charges
Federal counterfeiting cases in the Warren County area are typically prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (Alexandria or Richmond divisions). The investigation is usually conducted by the U.S. Secret Service, which has primary jurisdiction over counterfeit currency. The process begins with a federal grand jury indictment. After indictment, the case proceeds through initial appearance, arraignment, discovery, pre-trial motions, and potentially a jury trial. Sentencing follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the face value of the counterfeit items and the defendant’s criminal history.
- Investigation & Indictment: The U.S. Secret Service investigates, and a federal grand jury issues an indictment based on probable cause.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You appear before a magistrate judge, are informed of the charges, and enter a plea (not guilty, guilty, or nolo contendere).
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your defense lawyer files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges and reviews all evidence from the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Your attorney negotiates with the Assistant U.S. Attorney for a potential plea agreement. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutory factors.
Potential Penalties for Counterfeiting US Securities
In federal court, counterfeiting obligations or securities of the United States 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 US Obligations/Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) / $500,000 (organization) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent federal criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. We understand the high stakes of federal charges and the intricate procedures of the Eastern District of Virginia. Our approach involves a meticulous review of the government’s evidence, strategic motion practice, and skilled negotiation with federal prosecutors.
Case Results in Federal and State Courts
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients. In Warren County and across Virginia, we have secured reductions and amendments in criminal cases. For instance, in Warren County General District Court, we have successfully amended reckless driving charges to improper driving. While specific federal counterfeiting results are not listed here, our team, including secondary attorney Matthew Greene who has over 30 years of experience and formerly held a CPS contract in Alexandria, applies rigorous defense strategies to all federal matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Shenandoah Valley Office for Warren County Federal Cases
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients with federal matters in the Warren County area. We are accessible via I-66 and I-81, serving communities like Front Royal and Linden.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. Need a federal criminal attorney near Front Royal? Contact us today.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities Defense
What does “obligations or securities of the United States” mean?
It includes U.S. currency (bills, coins), Treasury bonds, notes, bills, certificates of indebtedness, and stamps. Essentially, any financial instrument issued by the U.S. government that holds monetary value.
What is the penalty for counterfeiting US currency in Virginia?
It is a federal crime, not a state crime. Under 18 U.S.C. § 471, the maximum penalty is 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence depends on the amount counterfeited and your criminal history under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Do I need a criminal attorney or a federal defense lawyer for this charge?
You absolutely need a criminal attorney with specific experience in federal court, known as a federal criminal defense lawyer. Federal procedure and sentencing are vastly different from state court. A lawyer familiar with the Eastern District of Virginia and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines is critical.
Who investigates counterfeiting charges?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for investigating counterfeit currency and securities. Other agencies like the FBI or Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) may also be involved, especially in complex financial fraud schemes.
What are common defenses to counterfeiting charges?
Potential defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or arguing that the items were not genuine obligations of the United States. A defense lawyer will analyze the specific facts of your case.
Can I get a plea deal in a federal counterfeiting case?
It depends. The U.S. Attorney’s Office may offer a plea agreement to avoid trial. The terms depend on the strength of the evidence, your cooperation, and your criminal history. An experienced federal criminal court lawyer can negotiate on your behalf.
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related charges in nearby areas like Shenandoah County and Frederick County. If you are facing other charges, explore our Warren County criminal defense services.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Warren County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US cases in Virginia explains each stage.