Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in King George, 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. If you are under investigation or charged in King George, Virginia, you need a federal criminal attorney with deep experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for complex federal charges.
Federal Law on Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 471. This 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, and other government securities. The law is part of a broader framework, including 18 U.S.C. § 472 (uttering counterfeit obligations) and 18 U.S.C. § 473 (dealing in counterfeit obligations).
Last verified: April 2026 | Eastern District of Virginia | U.S. Code via Congress.gov
Official Federal Resources
For the official text of the statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on the federal court handling these cases, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Defending Against Federal Counterfeiting Charges in King George
Federal investigations for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US often involve agencies like the U.S. Secret Service. A defense strategy must start early, often during the investigation phase. In the Eastern District of Virginia, where King George cases are heard, prosecutors move aggressively.
- Secure experienced federal counsel immediately upon learning of an investigation or charge.
- Your attorney will conduct a thorough review of all evidence, including forensic analysis of the alleged counterfeit items.
- File pre-trial motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence or seek dismissal if constitutional rights were violated.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a potential plea agreement to a lesser charge, if in your best interest.
- Prepare a vigorous defense for trial, focusing on lack of intent, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In the federal system, counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison terms 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) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent federal criminal record, loss of professional licenses. |
| Uttering Counterfeit Obligations (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Similar severe collateral consequences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Federal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal cases. Our firm-wide track record includes handling complex federal charges. We understand the high stakes of a counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US case and build defenses case-specific to the federal system.
Our team includes experienced counsel like Matthew Greene, who brings over 30 years of experience, including handling serious federal matters. This collaborative approach ensures every aspect of your defense against charges of counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US is examined.
Local Service for King George 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 facing federal charges in King George County. We provide 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment only. As a federal criminal lawyer near King George, we represent clients in communities like King George and Dahlgren.
Federal Counterfeiting Defense FAQs
What does “counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US” mean?
It is the federal crime of falsely creating or altering U.S. government financial instruments like currency or bonds with intent to defraud, under 18 U.S.C. § 471.
What agency investigates counterfeiting charges?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for investigating counterfeiting of U.S. currency and securities, often working with other federal agencies.
Do I need a federal criminal attorney for this charge?
Yes. These are serious federal felonies prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. You need a criminal court lawyer with specific federal experience, not just a state-level criminal attorney.
What are the possible defenses to this charge?
Potential defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence linking you to the counterfeit items, or challenging the legality of the investigation. A skilled defense lawyer will evaluate all angles.
Where would a case from King George be heard?
Federal charges for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US from King George County are typically filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, which has divisions in Alexandria, Richmond, Newport News, and Norfolk.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other federal charges, our firm also handles Federal Criminal Defense in King George County. For state-level matters, see our King George County Criminal Defense Lawyer page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.