Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Madison County, NY
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, investigated by the Secret Service and prosecuted in U.S. District Court. If you are facing these charges in Madison County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm, founded in 1997, has extensive experience with complex federal cases.
What Is Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US?
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the United States involves forging, altering, or falsely making U.S. currency, bonds, treasury notes, or other government securities with the intent to defraud. This is distinct from state-level forgery charges and is prosecuted exclusively in federal court. The statute, 18 U.S.C. § 471, carries severe penalties, including up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines. Federal sentencing guidelines and mandatory minimums often apply, making the consequences particularly harsh.
Last verified: March 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York | Federal Criminal Code
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the formal charges is critical. You can review the federal statute at the official U.S. Code § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York website.
Local Federal Court Process in Madison County
Federal counterfeiting cases for Madison County residents are typically handled in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York, which may involve proceedings in Syracuse or Albany. The process begins with a federal investigation, often by the U.S. Secret Service. A grand jury indictment follows, skilled to an arraignment. The Speedy Trial Act governs timelines, but complex cases can last over a year. Pretrial services will conduct an investigation, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will seek strict penalties.
- Initial Investigation & Arrest: Federal agents (Secret Service, FBI) execute search warrants and make arrests. Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The U.S. Attorney presents evidence to a grand jury to secure a formal indictment.
- Arraignment & Plea: You will be formally charged in U.S. District Court and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Discovery & Pretrial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors occurred.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases end in a plea agreement. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which include prison time, fines, and supervised release.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In federal court, Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US under 18 U.S.C. § 471 is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and supervised release.
| 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 | Supervised release, asset forfeiture, permanent criminal record |
| Possessing Counterfeit Plates (18 U.S.C. § 474) | Federal Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $250,000 | Same as above, considered an aggravating factor |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience and a track record of over 4,739 case results firm-wide. We understand the high stakes of federal charges and the specific procedures of the Northern District of New York. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights from the initial investigation through trial or negotiation.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US in Madison County are not listed, our firm has a documented history of favorable outcomes in complex federal and state criminal matters. For instance, we have secured dismissals in cases such as misdemeanor sex abuse in D.C. Superior Court and nolle prosequi in child pornography promotion cases in Maryland.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Madison County, NY
Our New York location serves clients facing federal charges in Madison County and the surrounding Central NY region. We are accessible via I-90 (NYS Thruway) and I-81. We provide legal representation for individuals in Wampsville, Oneida, Canastota, Cazenovia, Hamilton, Chittenango, Morrisville, Earlville, and Brookfield.
24/7 Phone Consultations — (888) 437-7747 — Meetings By Appointment Only
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between state forgery and Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US?
It depends. State forgery laws cover falsifying documents like checks or deeds. Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US is a specific federal crime for forging U.S. currency, bonds, or securities. The latter is investigated by federal agencies and carries much harsher penalties in federal court.
Who investigates counterfeiting charges in Madison County?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for investigating counterfeit currency and securities. They often work with the FBI and local law enforcement. If you are under investigation, you need a counterfeiting charge lawyer Madison County residents can trust to interact with these federal agencies immediately.
Can I get bail on a federal counterfeiting charge?
Yes, but it is not guaranteed. After an arraignment, a federal magistrate judge will decide on release conditions. For serious felonies, the prosecution may argue for detention. A skilled counterfeit currency defense lawyer Madison County can advocate for your release with the least restrictive conditions possible.
What are the best defenses to a counterfeiting charge?
Defenses can include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or proving you were unaware the items were counterfeit. An attorney may also file motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure.
Should I talk to Secret Service agents if they contact me?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you in court. A lawyer can communicate with agents on your behalf.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other federal charges, you may need a Federal Criminal Lawyer in Madison County. For broader criminal defense needs, visit our New York Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. For local family law matters, see our Madison County Family Lawyer page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.