Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Gloucester County, NJ
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a Gloucester County lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these complex cases. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Federal Counterfeiting Law and Penalties
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is defined under federal statute 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” include U.S. currency, Treasury bills, bonds, and other government financial instruments. This is distinct from state-level counterfeit currency charges, which are handled in New Jersey Superior Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | 18 U.S.C. § 471
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. His background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in dissecting the financial evidence often central to counterfeiting cases.
Official Legal Resources
- 18 U.S.C. § 471 – Counterfeiting and Forgery (U.S. Code)
- U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey (Court Website)
Defense Strategy for Gloucester County Federal Cases
Federal counterfeiting investigations in Gloucester County often involve agencies like the U.S. Secret Service or the FBI. A key local procedural fact is that all federal indictable offenses for Gloucester County residents are handled by the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, typically in the Camden or Newark divisions. The process begins with a grand jury indictment. Early intervention by a counterfeiting charge lawyer Gloucester County clients trust is critical to challenge the evidence before formal charges are filed.
- Initial Investigation: Contact with federal agents or receipt of a target letter.
- Grand Jury Proceeding: Presentation of evidence to secure an indictment.
- Arraignment: Formal reading of charges in U.S. District Court.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Review of evidence and filing motions to suppress.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Resolution through a plea agreement or proceeding to trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Federal Penalties
In federal court, counterfeiting of U.S. obligations or securities under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries a penalty of up to 20 years in federal prison and significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations/Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Asset forfeiture, restitution, permanent criminal record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which is directly applicable to financial crimes like counterfeiting. He maintains a multi-state practice, including New Jersey, and accepts a limited number of complex cases to ensure focused, strategic defense. The firm’s tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients across jurisdictions.
Documented Case Results
While specific results for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in Gloucester County are not listed, our firm’s approach to federal defense is demonstrated in other complex matters. For example, our team has secured dismissals in federal sex abuse cases and favorable resolutions in other serious charges. We apply the same rigorous, evidence-challenging strategy to all federal allegations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Gloucester County Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Our New Jersey location represents clients facing federal charges in Gloucester County. We serve communities including Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, Monroe Township, Mantua, West Deptford, Glassboro, Woolwich, Harrison Township, and Pitman.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 200-5298
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Federal Counterfeiting Defense FAQs
What is the difference between federal counterfeiting and state counterfeit currency charges?
Yes, there is a major difference. Federal counterfeiting (18 U.S.C. § 471) involves U.S. obligations or securities and is prosecuted in U.S. District Court. A counterfeit currency defense lawyer Gloucester County might also handle state-level charges under N.J.S.A. 2C:21-1, which are heard in New Jersey Superior Court and carry different penalties.
Who investigates counterfeiting of U.S. securities?
The primary investigative agency is the United States Secret Service. Other agencies like the FBI or IRS may be involved depending on the case specifics. Investigations often involve forensic analysis, surveillance, and undercover operations before any arrest is made.
What are the possible defenses to a federal counterfeiting charge?
Defenses can include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or arguing that the items in question are not “obligations or securities of the United States” as defined by law. An attorney must review all discovery to identify the best strategy.
Can I get a plea deal in a federal counterfeiting case?
It depends. The U.S. Attorney’s Office may offer a plea agreement, often in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser charge or a recommendation for a reduced sentence. The outcome heavily depends on the strength of the government’s evidence and your own criminal history.
What should I do if I am contacted by federal agents about counterfeiting?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with an attorney. You have the right to remain silent and the right to counsel. Do not attempt to explain or justify anything, as anything you say can be used against you later.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.