Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Warren County, NY
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, carrying severe penalties. If you are under investigation or charged in Warren County, you need a defense lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for charges involving counterfeit currency and securities.
What Is Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US?
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States, defined under federal law, involves forging, copying, or altering U.S. currency, bonds, treasury notes, or other government securities with the intent to defraud. This is distinct from state-level forgery and is prosecuted in federal court. The statute, 18 U.S.C. § 471, makes it a crime to falsely make, forge, counterfeit, or alter any obligation or security of the United States. Defenses often challenge the intent to defraud or the authenticity of the evidence.
Last verified: March 2026 | Warren County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York website.
Defending Counterfeiting Charges in Warren County
Federal counterfeiting cases in Warren County typically fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York. Investigations are usually led by the U.S. Secret Service or the FBI. The process begins with a federal investigation, which may lead to a grand jury indictment. An experienced counterfeit currency defense lawyer Warren County can intervene during the investigation phase to protect your rights and potentially avoid formal charges.
- Initial Investigation: Contact a federal defense attorney immediately if you suspect you are under investigation by federal agents.
- Grand Jury Proceedings: Your attorney can present exculpatory evidence to the prosecutor before the grand jury votes on an indictment.
- Arraignment & Plea: You will be formally charged and enter a plea in U.S. District Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer will file motions to challenge the evidence, such as motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence.
- Trial or Negotiation: The case will either proceed to a jury trial or be resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are often severe for counterfeiting.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In the federal system, counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities under 18 U.S.C. § 471 is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison and significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting Obligations/Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
| Possessing Counterfeit Currency (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Similar severe penalties as for manufacturing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We approach federal charges with a strategic understanding of both the law and the procedural nuances of courts like the Northern District of New York. Our philosophy, “Advocacy Without Borders,” means we are prepared to defend clients against complex federal allegations.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results for counterfeiting charges in Warren County are not publicly listed, our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in complex criminal cases. We have secured dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and favorable plea agreements for clients facing serious felony charges. Every case is defended aggressively from the initial investigation through resolution.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Warren County Federal Defense Lawyer
If you need a lawyer for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US in Warren County, contact us immediately. Our New York location serves clients in Lake George, Glens Falls, Queensbury, and throughout Warren County. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838) 292-0003
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities Defense
What is the difference between state forgery and federal counterfeiting charges?
Federal. Federal counterfeiting charges specifically involve U.S. currency, bonds, or securities and are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 471. State forgery laws cover other documents like checks or deeds.
Can I be charged if I only possessed counterfeit money but didn’t make it?
Yes. Under 18 U.S.C. § 472, knowingly possessing counterfeit U.S. currency with intent to defraud is a separate felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Intent is a key element your counterfeiting charge lawyer Warren County will scrutinize.
What agencies investigate counterfeiting cases in Warren County?
Typically, the U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction over counterfeit currency investigations. The FBI or Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) may also be involved, especially in larger operations or cases involving securities fraud.
What are the best defenses against a federal counterfeiting charge?
It depends. Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or arguing that the items were not genuine U.S. obligations. An attorney may also file motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search.
Should I speak to federal agents if they contact me?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a federal defense lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other federal charges, see our page on Federal Criminal Lawyer in Warren County. For related state-level financial crimes, visit our Warren County Criminal Defense Lawyer page. Learn more about our firm’s approach on our attorney profile page.
Page Last verified: March 2026. Federal laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US in Warren County.