Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Ocean County, NJ
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. A conviction can result in decades in federal prison, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Federal Law on Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US
The federal statute criminalizing the counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US 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” include currency (bills and coins), while “securities” encompass a broader range of financial instruments like Treasury bonds, notes, and bills.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | 18 U.S.C. § 471
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience handling complex federal matters. We understand the severe implications a charge for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US carries and build defenses focused on intent, evidence authenticity, and procedural challenges.
Official Resources & Court Information
Federal charges are governed by the U.S. Code and tried in federal district court. For Ocean County residents, the relevant jurisdiction is the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, which has divisions in Newark, Trenton, and Camden.
- 18 U.S.C. § 471 – Counterfeiting and Forgery (Official U.S. Code)
- U.S. District Court – District of New Jersey (Official Court Website)
Defending Against Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Charges in Ocean County
Federal investigations for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in Ocean County are typically led by the U.S. Secret Service or the FBI. The process begins long before an indictment is filed. An effective defense starts during the investigation phase, challenging the methods used to gather evidence and the government’s proof of specific intent to defraud.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: If you suspect you are under investigation, or if federal agents contact you, immediately exercise your right to remain silent and contact a federal defense lawyer. Do not speak to agents without counsel.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: The U.S. Attorney’s Office will present evidence to a grand jury. If indicted, you will be arraigned in U.S. District Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case. Extensive discovery review is critical.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence and potential defenses, your lawyer will advise on whether to negotiate a plea or proceed to trial before a federal judge or jury.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are severe for counterfeiting offenses. Mitigation strategies are essential.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In the District of New Jersey, a conviction for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000 for individuals.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Forfeiture of assets, permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, difficulty obtaining employment/housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, providing a unique advantage in dissecting complex financial evidence in cases like counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US. We approach each case with a collaborative team strategy, leveraging deep knowledge of federal court procedures in New Jersey.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While we maintain a record of successful outcomes, every case is unique. Our firm-wide experience includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We defend clients across all court levels, including federal district courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
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) 837-1900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Ocean County, including Toms River, Lakewood, Brick Township, Jackson Township, Lacey, Stafford, Little Egg Harbor, Barnegat, Berkeley Township, Manchester, Seaside Heights, and Point Pleasant. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US
What does “counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US” mean?
It is a federal crime defined under 18 U.S.C. § 471. It involves falsely creating or altering U.S. currency, Treasury bonds, notes, or other government securities with the intent to defraud. This is distinct from simply possessing counterfeit money.
What agency investigates counterfeit currency charges in Ocean County?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for investigating counterfeit U.S. currency. The FBI may also be involved, especially in larger, more complex operations involving securities fraud or organized crime.
Can a counterfeit currency defense lawyer in Ocean County help if I was just holding fake money?
Yes. A key defense is lack of intent to defraud. A lawyer can argue you did not know the money was counterfeit or had no intent to pass it. An experienced counterfeit currency defense lawyer Ocean County residents trust can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on this critical element.
What should I do if I’m charged with a counterfeiting offense?
Immediately invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Contact a federal defense attorney who handles counterfeiting charges to begin building your defense strategy immediately.
What are the possible defenses to a counterfeiting charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence linking you to the creation of the counterfeit items, entrapment, or violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation or seizure of evidence.
Why is it critical to hire a lawyer familiar with federal court in New Jersey?
Federal court procedures, rules of evidence, and sentencing guidelines are vastly different from state court. A lawyer experienced in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey understands the local rules, judges, and prosecutors, which is essential for handling a counterfeiting charge effectively.
For more information, see our pages on Criminal Defense in Ocean County and Federal Criminal Defense in New Jersey. You can also learn about defense in neighboring areas from our Monmouth County federal criminal lawyer.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws 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.