Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the Eastern 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 U.S. obligations or securities is a federal crime defined in Title 18 of the United States Code. The primary statute, 18 U.S.C. § 471, makes it illegal to falsely make, forge, counterfeit, or alter any obligation or security of the United States with the intent to defraud. This law is part of a broader framework aimed at protecting the integrity of U.S. financial instruments and currency.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal Courts | U.S. Code
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our team understands the gravity of federal investigations and the severe penalties at stake in counterfeiting cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the federal law, you can review 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Counterfeiting and Forgery) on the official U.S. Code website. For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Defending Against Counterfeiting Charges in Fauquier County
Federal counterfeiting charges in Fauquier County typically originate from investigations by the U.S. Secret Service or the FBI. These cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. The key local procedural fact is that while you may be arrested in Fauquier County, your case will be heard in federal court, often in Alexandria or Richmond. A strong defense requires challenging the evidence of intent to defraud and the authenticity of the alleged counterfeit items.
- Secure immediate legal representation upon learning of an investigation or arrest.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including search warrants and forensic reports on the alleged counterfeit items.
- A defense strategy is developed, which may involve challenging the intent element or negotiating a plea to a lesser charge.
- If the case proceeds, pre-trial motions are filed to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- The case may go to trial before a federal judge and jury, where the burden of proof rests entirely with the prosecution.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In Fauquier County, a federal conviction for counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities 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 | As set by the court; often substantial | Federal criminal record, asset forfeiture, supervised release |
| Possession of Counterfeit Securities (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 15 years | As set by the court | Same as above |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand that federal charges for counterfeiting obligations or securities of the US are life-altering. Our approach is built on thorough case preparation and a detailed understanding of federal law and procedure.
Our team includes experienced attorneys like Matthew Greene, who has over 30 years of experience and has handled serious federal matters. We work collaboratively to build the strongest possible defense for every client.
Local Service for Fauquier County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location — 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at federal courts relevant to Fauquier County cases, accessible via I-66 and Route 29. We are a federal criminal defense lawyer near Warrenton and serve the communities of Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 U.S. authority. Counterfeiting any of these items with intent to defraud violates 18 U.S.C. § 471.
What is the difference between state and federal counterfeiting charges?
Counterfeiting U.S. obligations is exclusively a federal crime. State charges might apply to forging checks or documents, but forging federal instruments is prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice in federal court, which generally carries heavier penalties.
What should I do if I’m contacted by the Secret Service about counterfeiting?
Do not answer questions. Politely state you wish to speak with a criminal attorney and contact a lawyer immediately. The U.S. Secret Service investigates these crimes, and anything you say can be used against you.
Can I get a plea deal in a federal counterfeiting case?
It depends. The U.S. Attorney’s Office may offer a plea agreement, especially for first-time offenders or in cases with weaker evidence. An experienced criminal charges defense lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, potentially to a lesser charge with a reduced sentence.
Why do I need a specific federal criminal court lawyer?
Federal court procedures, sentencing guidelines, and prosecution tactics are distinct from state court. A lawyer familiar with the Eastern District of Virginia and federal law is essential for handling a counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US case effectively.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.