Counterfeiting of US Obligations or Securities Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, punishable by up to 20 years in prison. If you are under investigation or charged in Fairfax County, you need a defense lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these complex federal criminal charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Statute on Counterfeiting US Securities
The federal law prohibiting the counterfeiting of U.S. obligations and securities is broad and carries severe penalties. The primary 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 with intent to defraud. This includes currency, treasury notes, bonds, and other government securities. Prosecutions are handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, which includes Fairfax County. A conviction requires the government to prove you acted with the specific intent to defraud.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, visit the U.S. Code § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures in the Eastern District of Virginia, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Federal Defense Strategy in Fairfax County
Defending against charges of counterfeiting obligations or securities of the US requires immediate action. Federal investigations often involve agencies like the Secret Service or FBI. An early intervention by a criminal court lawyer can be critical. In our experience, challenging the intent to defraud is often a key defense strategy, as the government must prove you knowingly acted with fraudulent purpose.
- Secure immediate legal representation upon learning of an investigation or arrest.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including the alleged counterfeit items and any surveillance or digital evidence.
- A defense strategy is developed, which may involve challenging the intent element, the authenticity of the evidence, or procedural violations.
- Your lawyer will represent you at all hearings in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In the federal system, counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison and significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture of assets, permanent criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
| Possessing Counterfeit Securities (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $250,000 | Same as above. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Federal Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, personally leads on serious federal criminal charges defense matters, bringing a strategic understanding of both sides of the courtroom.
Case Results in Federal and State Courts
Our attorneys have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges. For instance, we have successfully negotiated reductions from felony to misdemeanor charges and secured dismissals where evidence was lacking. In federal cases, our defense lawyers work meticulously to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and protect our clients’ rights at every stage.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients throughout Northern Virginia, including those facing federal criminal charges defense in Fairfax County. We are accessible to communities like Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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, Treasury bonds, notes, bills, stamps, and any other security issued under U.S. authority. Counterfeiting any of these items with intent to defraud violates 18 U.S.C. § 471.
Is possessing counterfeit money a federal crime?
Yes. Under 18 U.S.C. § 472, knowingly possessing counterfeit U.S. obligations with intent to defraud is a separate federal felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
What federal agency investigates counterfeiting charges?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for investigating counterfeit currency and securities. The FBI may also be involved in complex fraud cases. A criminal attorney experienced with federal procedure is essential when dealing with these agencies.
Can I be charged in Virginia state court for counterfeiting?
While Virginia has its own laws against forgery and fraud, counterfeiting U.S. obligations is almost exclusively prosecuted in federal court by the U.S. Attorney’s Office due to its interstate nature and the involvement of federal instruments.
What are the key defenses to these charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, entrapment, or challenging the authenticity of the evidence. An experienced defense lawyer will analyze the specifics of your case to build the strongest possible defense.
If you are facing allegations of counterfeiting obligations or securities of the US in Fairfax County, Virginia, contact our firm immediately. We are ready to protect your rights and provide a vigorous defense.
Related Practice Areas: Federal Criminal Lawyer Fairfax County | Business Lawyer Fairfax County
Nearby Locations: Federal Criminal Lawyer Alexandria | Federal Criminal Lawyer Arlington County
State Hub: Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Page Last verified: April 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 charges.