Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Roanoke County, Virginia
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the Western District of Virginia. If you are under investigation or charged in Roanoke County, you need a federal criminal attorney with deep experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these complex charges.
Federal Statute for Counterfeiting U.S. Securities
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is defined under federal law, specifically 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-issued financial instruments. The law is part of a broader framework, including 18 U.S.C. § 472 (uttering counterfeit obligations), designed to protect the integrity of the nation’s financial system. Cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia and are heard in federal court, not state court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Western District of Virginia Federal Court | 18 U.S.C. § 471
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on the federal court serving Roanoke County, visit the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
Defending Against Federal Counterfeiting Charges in Roanoke County
Federal investigations for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US often involve agencies like the U.S. Secret Service or the FBI. The procedural path is distinct from state court. An initial appearance and detention hearing are held before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. A grand jury indictment is required to proceed with felony charges. The discovery process is governed by the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. A strong defense requires challenging the evidence of intent to defraud and the authenticity of the alleged counterfeit items.
- Secure experienced federal counsel immediately upon learning of an investigation or arrest.
- Your attorney will review the indictment and all discovery provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
- A defense strategy is developed, which may involve filing pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or challenge the charges.
- Negotiations with prosecutors may lead to a plea agreement, potentially for a reduced charge.
- If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in federal court.
- If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence under the guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Counterfeiting U.S. Securities
In the Western District of Virginia, a conviction for counterfeiting 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.
| 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 | Forfeiture of assets, permanent federal criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
| Uttering Counterfeit Obligations (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Similar severe collateral consequences as § 471. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases like counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US. Our approach, “Advocacy Without Borders,” means we are prepared to defend clients across jurisdictions. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, personally oversees complex federal matters, bringing strategic insight to every case.
Case Results & Client Defense
While specific results for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in Roanoke County are not publicly listed, our firm has a documented history of handling serious federal charges. For example, our attorneys have achieved favorable outcomes in other federal matters through strategic negotiation and vigorous defense. In related state-level financial cases in Roanoke County, we have secured results like deferred dispositions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Roanoke County Federal Defense Lawyers
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients facing federal charges in Roanoke County. We are accessible via I-81 and other major highways. We provide federal criminal defense representation near Salem, Vinton, and Cave Spring.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (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 “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 court handles these charges in Roanoke County?
These are federal charges. They are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and heard in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, not in Roanoke County state courts.
Do I need a criminal court lawyer for a federal case?
Yes, you need a defense lawyer experienced in federal criminal procedure. Federal courts have different rules, sentencing guidelines, and prosecutors than state courts. A specialized criminal attorney is critical.
What are the potential penalties?
A conviction can result in up to 20 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, asset forfeiture, and a permanent felony record. The actual sentence depends on the specific facts and your history.
What should I do if I’m under investigation?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Early intervention by a defense lawyer can significantly impact the direction of an investigation and potential criminal charges.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other federal charges, our firm also handles federal business crimes and complex civil litigation. For state-level matters in Roanoke County, see our DUI defense page.
More Virginia Federal Defense: For information on defending against federal charges across Virginia, visit our Virginia federal criminal defense hub. We also serve clients in Augusta County and Albemarle County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Federal statutes and procedures can 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.