Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Augusta, Virginia
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, investigated by the Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. If you are under investigation or charged in Augusta, Virginia, you need a federal criminal attorney with deep experience in complex financial crimes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | Federal Sentencing Guidelines
Federal Law on Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities
The federal statute criminalizing the counterfeiting of U.S. obligations or 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. “Obligations or securities” includes currency, treasury notes, bonds, bills, and other instruments issued under the authority of the United States. The statute is part of a broader chapter on counterfeiting and forgery, and violations are aggressively pursued by federal agencies.
Conviction under this statute is a Class C felony, carrying a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines. Sentencing is guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider factors like the face value of the counterfeit items and the defendant’s criminal history. A conviction also results in a permanent federal criminal record.
- Secure immediate representation upon learning of an investigation or arrest.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including forensic analysis of alleged counterfeit items.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may involve challenging intent, the authenticity of evidence, or procedural errors.
- handle pre-trial motions and, if necessary, prepare for trial in U.S. District Court.
Penalties for Counterfeiting Federal Obligations
In Augusta, Virginia, federal charges for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the United States under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carry a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, fines, and a permanent felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations/Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Class C Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Permanent federal record, asset forfeiture, supervised release |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Defense Representation in Augusta County
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal criminal defense. Our firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, has a background in accounting and information systems, providing a distinct advantage in dissecting complex financial evidence in counterfeiting cases. We understand the severe implications of a federal indictment and provide full representation from the investigative stage through trial.
For federal charges like counterfeiting, having a seasoned criminal attorney like Mr. Sris is essential. Our team also includes Of Counsel attorney Matthew Greene, who brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing additional depth for challenging federal prosecutions.
Local Federal Court Defense
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients facing federal charges in the Augusta County area. Federal cases for Augusta County residents are typically prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, with courthouses in Roanoke or Harrisonburg. We are familiar with the procedures and personnel in these courts.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location — 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
We provide 24/7 phone consultations and serve communities including Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville. If you need a criminal court lawyer for federal charges, contact us immediately.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Charges
What does “obligations or securities of the United States” mean?
It includes U.S. currency, Treasury bonds, notes, bills, stamps, and other instruments issued under government authority. Counterfeiting any of these items with intent to defraud violates 18 U.S.C. § 471.
Who investigates counterfeiting charges in Augusta, VA?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary investigative jurisdiction, often working with local police. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia prosecutes the case.
What are the possible defenses to counterfeiting charges?
Defenses can include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or procedural violations during the investigation. A skilled criminal charges defense lawyer will examine all angles.
Is this a state or federal crime?
Counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities is exclusively a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in U.S. District Court, not Virginia state court.
What should I do if I’m contacted by federal agents?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Do not speak to agents without an attorney present, as anything you say can be used against you.
Related Content: For more information, see our pages on Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer and Federal Criminal Lawyer in Albemarle County. If you are facing other charges, consider a DUI Lawyer in Augusta County.
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