Counterfeiting Of Obligations Or Securities Of The U S Lawyer New Jersey — What Are Your Defense Options?
Counterfeiting obligations or securities of the U.S. is a serious federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in New Jersey’s federal courts. A conviction can result in decades in prison and massive fines. If you are under investigation or have been charged, you need a defense lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these contested cases.
Federal Statute for Counterfeiting Obligations or Securities
Federal law strictly prohibits the forgery or counterfeiting of U.S. obligations and securities. The primary statute is 18 U.S.C. § 471, which 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, and other government-issued financial instruments. The law is designed to protect the integrity of the nation’s financial system and carries severe penalties to deter such acts.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | U.S. Code
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the specific law is critical. You can review the federal statute on 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code). For procedures in New Jersey’s federal court, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Defending Against Federal Counterfeiting Charges in New Jersey
Federal counterfeiting cases are investigated by agencies like the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The process is demanding and moves quickly. An early and strategic defense is essential. In the District of New Jersey, federal prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively due to their impact on national financial security.
- Initial Investigation & Arrest: The case typically begins with a Secret Service investigation, which may lead to a federal arrest or indictment.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Newark, Trenton, or Camden to hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your criminal court lawyer will file motions to challenge evidence and review all discovery provided by the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The case may be resolved through a plea agreement or proceed to a jury trial in U.S. District Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are often severe for counterfeiting crimes.
Potential Penalties for Counterfeiting U.S. Securities
In New Jersey, a federal conviction for counterfeiting obligations or securities under 18 U.S.C. § 471 can result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years and fines of up to $250,000 for an individual.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting Obligations or 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 professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Criminal Charges Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the high stakes of federal court and provide a focused, strategic defense for charges like counterfeiting obligations or securities of the U.S.
Case Results and Approach
Our approach to defending against federal counterfeiting charges involves a meticulous review of the evidence, challenging the government’s proof of intent, and exploring all procedural defenses. We have successfully defended clients facing serious federal allegations by negotiating for reduced charges and advocating for favorable outcomes at sentencing.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Serving New Jersey
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
SRIS New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients across all 21 counties. We are accessible for those needing a federal criminal defense lawyer near Newark, Trenton, or Camden. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities Charges
What does “counterfeiting obligations or securities of the U.S.” mean?
It refers to the federal crime of falsely creating or altering U.S. government financial instruments—like currency, bonds, or treasury notes—with the intent to defraud. This is prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 471.
Do I need a lawyer for a federal counterfeiting investigation?
Yes. If you are under investigation by the Secret Service or U.S. Attorney’s Office for counterfeiting obligations or securities of the U.S., you need a criminal attorney with federal experience immediately. Early legal intervention is critical.
What are the penalties for a counterfeiting conviction?
A conviction can result in up to 20 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000. Penalties are severe because the crime threatens the integrity of the national financial system.
Can a defense lawyer challenge the evidence in these cases?
Yes. A strong criminal charges defense often involves challenging the authentication of the alleged counterfeit items, the proof of intent to defraud, and the legality of the investigation methods used by federal agents.
Where are these cases heard in New Jersey?
Federal counterfeiting cases are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, with court locations in Newark, Trenton, and Camden.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
A counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the u s case is one part of fraud & financial crimes work, and our page on bank fraud lawyer New Jersey covers the wider process.