Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US is a serious federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. A conviction can result in severe penalties, including up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines.
Federal Law on Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is defined under Title 18, Section 471 of the U.S. Code. The statute 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 U.S. currency, Treasury bonds, notes, and other government-issued financial instruments. The law is designed to protect the integrity of the nation’s financial system and is aggressively enforced by federal agencies like the U.S. Secret Service.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | Federal statutes are codified in the U.S. Code.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, refer to 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Counterfeiting and Forgery) on the official Legal Information Institute site. For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Local Federal Court Process for Counterfeiting Charges in New Jersey
Federal counterfeiting cases in Burlington County are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, often through the Camden or Trenton divisions. The process begins with an investigation by the U.S. Secret Service or another federal agency. If evidence is found, a federal grand jury may issue an indictment. Following arrest or summons, an initial appearance and detention hearing are held. The discovery phase is extensive, and most cases are resolved through plea negotiations. If a plea cannot be reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Initial Investigation & Arrest: Federal agents execute search warrants and make arrests. Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Initial Appearance & Detention Hearing: You will appear before a magistrate judge, who will advise you of the charges and determine if you will be released or detained pending trial.
- Arraignment & Plea: You will formally hear the charges and enter a plea of not guilty, allowing the defense to begin building your case.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if your rights were violated.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable plea deal. If no agreement is reached, your case will go to trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, either by plea or trial, the court will impose a sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Counterfeiting U.S. Securities
In federal court, 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 fines of up to $250,000 for individuals.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Supervised release, restitution, forfeiture of assets used in the crime. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of federal investigative tactics and courtroom strategy. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious federal allegations.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in Burlington County are not listed, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across our practice areas in VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Burlington County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing federal charges in Burlington County, including those related to counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike and I-295. We provide representation for individuals in Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747; all meetings are 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 the federal crime of falsely creating or altering U.S. government financial instruments—like currency, bonds, or treasury notes—with intent to defraud, as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 471.
What agency investigates counterfeiting charges?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for investigating counterfeiting of U.S. currency and securities, often working with other agencies like the FBI or Homeland Security Investigations.
What are the penalties for a counterfeiting conviction?
A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 471 can result in up to 20 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and mandatory restitution or asset forfeiture. Sentences follow strict federal guidelines.
Should I talk 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 criminal defense lawyer.
What is the first step after being charged?
The first step is your initial appearance in U.S. District Court. Having an attorney present from the outset is vital to protect your rights during the detention hearing and arraignment.
Can a counterfeit currency defense lawyer Burlington County help if I’m only under investigation?
Yes. Engaging a lawyer during the investigation phase is often the most critical move. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf and work to prevent charges from being filed.
What defenses are available against counterfeiting charges?
Defenses may include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or asserting that your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation.
Why do I need a counterfeiting charge lawyer Burlington County?
Federal counterfeiting cases involve technical laws, sophisticated evidence, and prosecutors with vast resources. A lawyer experienced in this specific area of federal law is essential to handle the process and build an effective defense.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing federal charges, it is important to understand all your options. You may also want to learn about federal criminal defense in New Jersey. For charges in neighboring areas, see our pages for a federal criminal lawyer Camden County or a federal criminal lawyer Atlantic County. For other legal needs in Burlington County, consider a business lawyer Burlington County or a DUI lawyer Burlington County.
Last verified: April 2026. The information on this page is based on federal statutes and procedural rules. Federal law is demanding and constantly subject to interpretation. For advice specific to your case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
For the full picture beyond Burlington County, our page on counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US cases in New Jersey covers the process end to end.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
Federal charges are heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey (Newark, Trenton and Camden), not in county court; related state charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is Title 18 of the United States Code and the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Burlington County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Counterfeiting of Obligations or Lawyer Bergen County · Counterfeiting of Obligations or Lawyer Hudson County · Counterfeiting of Obligations or Lawyer Monmouth County.