Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Kent County, MD
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. If you are under investigation for counterfeiting currency or securities in Kent County, you need a lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these serious charges.
Federal Law on Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities
The federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 471 makes it a crime to counterfeit U.S. obligations or securities with intent to defraud. This includes forging or altering currency, treasury notes, bonds, or other government-issued financial instruments. The law is broad, covering not just finished counterfeit bills but also the possession of plates, stones, or other tools used for counterfeiting.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
Defending Counterfeiting Charges in Kent County
Federal counterfeiting cases in Maryland are investigated by agencies like the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. A strong defense often challenges the intent to defraud, the authenticity of evidence, or the legality of the search and seizure. Early intervention by a counterfeiting charge lawyer Kent County is critical to protect your rights during the investigation phase.
- Initial Investigation: Federal agents may execute search warrants, seize equipment, and conduct interviews.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The prosecution presents evidence to a grand jury to secure a formal indictment.
- Arraignment: You appear in U.S. District Court to hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews all evidence and files pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most federal cases end in a plea agreement. If not, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on federal guidelines, which include prison time, fines, and supervised release.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In Kent County, counterfeiting of U.S. obligations or securities under 18 U.S.C. § 471 is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial 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) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture, permanent criminal record |
| Possession of Counterfeiting Tools (18 U.S.C. § 474) | Federal Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Same as above |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys include former prosecutors with experience handling complex federal cases. We understand the pressure of a federal investigation and work to build a strategic defense from the outset.
Our firm has a documented record of case results. While specific outcomes depend on case details, our approach focuses on thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy. For federal charges, having a counterfeit currency defense lawyer Kent County clients trust can make a significant difference.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Service for Kent County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Our Maryland office serves Kent County federal court.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations available.
We represent clients in Kent County and surrounding communities like Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, and Betterton. If you need a counterfeiting charge lawyer Kent County relies on, contact our office to discuss your situation.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US in Kent County
What does “obligations or securities of the United States” mean?
It includes U.S. currency, Treasury bonds, notes, bills, stamps, and other financial instruments issued by the government. Counterfeiting any of these with intent to defraud violates 18 U.S.C. § 471.
Is possessing fake money a federal crime in Maryland?
Yes, if you know it is counterfeit and intend to use it. Mere possession without intent may be a state issue, but federal law (18 U.S.C. § 472) prohibits passing, uttering, or possessing counterfeit obligations with fraudulent intent.
What agencies investigate counterfeiting in Kent County?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction. They often work with local police. Investigations can involve surveillance, undercover operations, and forensic analysis of materials.
What are the defenses to a federal counterfeiting charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, entrapment, or challenging the authenticity of the evidence. An attorney can also file motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search.
Can I get a public defender for a federal counterfeiting case?
You may qualify for a court-appointed attorney through the Criminal Justice Act (CJA) panel if you cannot afford a lawyer. The court determines eligibility based on your financial situation.
Where are federal counterfeiting cases for Kent County heard?
They are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. Arraignments and trials may occur in Baltimore or Greenbelt, depending on the division handling the case.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing federal charges, you may also want to learn about Federal Criminal Defense in Maryland. For other legal issues in Kent County, see our pages on Criminal Defense and DUI Defense.
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 lawyer Kent County representation.