Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in New Kent, 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 New Kent County, you need a federal criminal attorney with deep experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these complex charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Law on Counterfeiting U.S. Securities
The federal statute criminalizing the counterfeiting of U.S. obligations and securities is 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” includes currency, treasury notes, bonds, and other instruments issued under U.S. authority. This charge is distinct from state-level forgery and carries severe federal penalties. A knowledgeable criminal attorney is essential to handle the federal system.
External Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code). For information on the federal court handling these cases, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- Initial federal investigation by the Secret Service, FBI, or Homeland Security.
- Grand jury indictment is required to formally charge the felony.
- Arraignment and initial appearance in U.S. District Court.
- Extensive discovery and pre-trial motion phase.
- Potential plea negotiations or preparation for federal jury trial.
- Sentencing under the strict U.S. Federal Sentencing Guidelines if convicted.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting Charges
In federal court, a conviction for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the United States under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries a maximum penalty of 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) | Federal supervised release, permanent criminal record, asset forfeiture. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, personally leads our federal defense team, collaborating with experienced Of Counsel like Matthew Greene, who has over 30 years of experience including federal court representation.
Case Results in New Kent County
While federal case specifics are confidential, our attorneys have a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in Virginia courts. In New Kent County, our team has secured dismissals for charges like excessive vehicle length and successful reductions for serious traffic offenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near New Kent, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients facing federal charges in New Kent County, with the courthouse accessible via I-64. We represent individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Charges
What does “obligations or securities of the United States” mean?
It includes U.S. currency, Treasury bonds, notes, stamps, and other instruments issued by government authority. Counterfeiting any of these is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 471.
What is the penalty for a federal counterfeiting conviction?
A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 471 can result in up to 20 years in federal prison, significant fines, and a permanent felony record. Sentencing follows the U.S. Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Which federal agency investigates counterfeiting?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for investigating counterfeit currency and securities. The FBI and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) may also be involved in complex cases.
Do I need a federal criminal defense lawyer for these charges?
Yes. These are serious felonies prosecuted in U.S. District Court, requiring a defense lawyer with specific federal procedure experience. The complexity demands early intervention by a skilled criminal charges defense attorney.
What court hears these cases for New Kent County residents?
New Kent County falls within the Richmond Division of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Federal trials and hearings would typically be held at the federal courthouse in Richmond.
Internal Links: For more on federal defense, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer hub. For related local defense, consider a Henrico County criminal defense lawyer or a New Kent County DUI lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.