Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Powhatan, Virginia
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. If you are under investigation or charged in Powhatan, you need a federal criminal attorney with deep experience in complex financial crimes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Law on Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities
The federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 471 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 law is part of a broader framework targeting financial crimes against the government. An obligation or security includes U.S. currency, Treasury bills, bonds, stamps, and other instruments issued under government authority. The statute requires the prosecution to prove you acted with intent to defraud. Defending against these charges often involves challenging the evidence of intent, the authenticity of the items, or the knowledge element of the crime.
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 and rules, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- If contacted by federal agents, politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney.
- Your attorney will conduct a thorough case review, examining all evidence, including digital forensics and financial records.
- A defense strategy will be built, potentially challenging the intent to defraud or the authenticity of the alleged counterfeit items.
- Your lawyer will engage in pre-trial negotiations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, seeking reduced charges or alternative resolutions.
- If necessary, prepare for a vigorous defense at trial in federal court, challenging the prosecution’s evidence at every stage.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting Charges
In Powhatan, a federal conviction for counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries severe penalties, including 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) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent federal criminal record, loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Federal Defense Experience
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 4,739+ documented case results. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally leads on complex federal criminal defense matters. His unique background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in dissecting financial evidence and technical aspects of counterfeiting cases.
For federal cases in Powhatan, our team collaborates closely. Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience and a former contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, provides additional depth for cases with intersecting issues. His extensive courtroom experience is a valuable asset in federal proceedings.
Local Representation for Powhatan Residents
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.
Our Richmond location serves clients facing federal charges in Powhatan County. We are accessible via major routes including Route 522 and Route 60. We provide 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings by appointment only. We serve the Powhatan community and surrounding areas.
Federal Counterfeiting Charges FAQ
What does 18 U.S.C. § 471 prohibit?
It prohibits falsely making, forging, counterfeiting, or altering any obligation or security of the United States with intent to defraud. This includes currency, bonds, and stamps.
Who investigates counterfeiting of U.S. securities?
It depends. The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction, but investigations may also involve Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI, or the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, depending on the nature of the case.
What is the potential prison sentence for a conviction?
A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 471 can result in a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison, plus substantial fines and mandatory asset forfeiture.
Do I need a specific type of criminal attorney for this charge?
Yes. You need a federal criminal defense lawyer with experience in financial crimes and the federal court system. A local criminal court lawyer may not have the specific knowledge required for federal procedure and sentencing guidelines.
What are common defenses to these criminal charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, and asserting that you lacked knowledge the items were counterfeit. A skilled defense lawyer will examine all avenues.
For more information on related defenses, see our page on Powhatan County criminal defense. To understand our full range of federal practice, visit our Virginia federal criminal defense hub. For other legal needs in Powhatan, consider our Powhatan business law services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.