Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Bedford, Virginia
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the Western District of Virginia. A conviction can result in up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines. If you are under investigation or have been charged, you need a federal criminal attorney with deep experience.
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 enforced by federal agencies like the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia, which has jurisdiction over Bedford County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Western District of Virginia Federal Court | U.S. Code.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code). For information on the federal court handling these cases in Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia website.
Local Federal Court Process for Counterfeiting Charges in Bedford
Federal counterfeiting cases originating in Bedford County are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, often in the Roanoke or Lynchburg divisions. The process is distinct from state court. It begins with a federal investigation, frequently involving the Secret Service. A grand jury indictment is typically required before formal charges are filed. The case then proceeds through arraignment, extensive discovery, pre-trial motions, and potentially a jury trial. Federal sentencing follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which can mandate severe penalties.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: You may be contacted by federal agents. Do not speak to them without your criminal attorney present. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. immediately at (888) 437-7747.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The U.S. Attorney presents evidence to a grand jury. If indicted, you will be arrested or summoned to court.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: You will appear before a federal magistrate judge, enter a plea, and arguments will be made about whether you can be released on bond.
- Discovery & Motion Practice: Your defense lawyer will review all evidence and file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if constitutional violations occurred.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases end in a plea agreement. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in federal court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, a federal judge will impose a sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Potential Penalties for Counterfeiting U.S. Securities
In the Western District of Virginia, a conviction for 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 fines.
| 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) / $500,000 (organization) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent federal criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
| Possessing Counterfeit Securities (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Same as above. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally leads our federal defense team, bringing a strategic understanding of how federal agencies build cases. We provide “Advocacy Without Borders” for clients facing serious federal allegations.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in Bedford are not publicly listed, our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in federal cases. Our approach involves a meticulous review of the government’s evidence, challenging the legality of the investigation, and exploring all avenues for defense, including negotiating for reduced charges or alternative resolutions when appropriate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Bedford, Virginia
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.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients facing federal charges in Bedford County and the Western District of Virginia. We are accessible via Route 81 and other major highways. We provide federal criminal defense representation for residents of Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for phone consultations. Meetings are held by appointment only.
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 (bills, coins), Treasury bonds, notes, stamps, and other financial instruments issued under the authority of the U.S. government. Counterfeiting any of these items with intent to defraud violates 18 U.S.C. § 471.
Who investigates counterfeiting of U.S. securities?
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 schemes.
What are the possible defenses to a counterfeiting charge?
Potential defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or proving you were unaware the items were counterfeit. A skilled criminal attorney can also file motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure.
Is this a state or federal crime?
Counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities is exclusively a federal crime. It will be prosecuted in U.S. District Court, not Virginia state court. For Bedford County, this is the Western District of Virginia.
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 criminal charges defense lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you.
What should I look for in a defense lawyer for this charge?
You need a criminal court lawyer with specific experience in federal court and financial crimes. Look for a firm with a proven track record, former prosecutors on staff, and the resources to handle complex investigations and trials.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other federal charges, our firm also handles federal business fraud, complex civil litigation, and serious DUI offenses.
Nearby Federal Defense: We also represent clients in neighboring jurisdictions like Augusta County and Albemarle County.
Learn More: For an overview of our federal practice, visit our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Federal laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US lawyer services in Bedford Virginia, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. directly at (888) 437-7747.