Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Salisbury, MD | SRIS, P.C.
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. A conviction can result in decades in federal prison, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Federal Law on Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities
The primary federal statute addressing the counterfeiting of U.S. obligations or 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. This includes U.S. currency, Treasury bonds, notes, bills, and other government securities. The statute is broad and covers not just the production of fake money, but also the alteration of genuine securities to increase their value.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand that federal charges create immense stress, and we work to build a defense strategy from the first moment you contact us.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the federal statute, refer to 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For procedures and local rules in the federal district covering Salisbury, review the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
Defense Strategy for Counterfeiting Charges in Salisbury
Federal counterfeiting cases in the Salisbury area are typically investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, often with assistance from local police. These cases may originate from the use of counterfeit bills at local businesses, online sales of fake currency, or more sophisticated operations. A key local procedural fact is that while investigations may occur in Salisbury, federal indictments are filed, and cases are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, which has divisions in Baltimore and Greenbelt.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: After arrest or receiving a target letter, immediately secure legal representation. Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The U.S. Attorney will present evidence to a federal grand jury. If indicted, you will be arraigned in U.S. District Court.
- Pretrial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions to challenge evidence and obtain all discovery from the prosecution, including forensic reports on the alleged counterfeit items.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will advise on the strength of the government’s case and negotiate for a favorable plea agreement or prepare for trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the face value of the counterfeit items and your criminal history.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In the federal system, 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 a fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations/Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | As set by the court | Supervised release (3+ years), permanent felony record, asset forfeiture. |
| Possessing Counterfeit Items (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 15 years | As set by the court | Supervised release, felony record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the government builds cases. We have handled thousands of criminal matters. We approach each federal case with a detailed strategy, examining the methods of investigation, the forensic evidence, and the specific intent required for a conviction.
Case Results
Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While specific results are unique to each case, our team has successfully defended clients against serious federal allegations through motions to suppress evidence, challenging the government’s proof of intent, and negotiating favorable resolutions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex federal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions, including Maryland. His background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting financial evidence in cases like counterfeiting.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Rockville/MD Location — Montgomery County area (by appointment)
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
Meetings By Appointment Only
Our Maryland office represents Salisbury clients in federal court. We serve Salisbury, Downtown Salisbury, Fruitland, Delmar, Hebron, and Mardela Springs. Facing counterfeiting charges? You need a counterfeit currency defense lawyer Salisbury with federal experience. Call for a 24/7 consultation.
Federal Counterfeiting Defense FAQs
What does “Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US” mean?
It is a federal felony involving the fraudulent creation or alteration of U.S. government financial instruments, including currency, bonds, or treasury notes, with intent to deceive.
Who investigates counterfeiting cases in Salisbury, MD?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction, often working with local police. Cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland.
What are the possible defenses to a counterfeiting charge?
Defenses may include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or arguing that you were unaware the items were counterfeit.
Is possessing counterfeit money a crime?
Yes. Possessing counterfeit U.S. obligations with intent to defraud is a separate felony under 18 U.S.C. § 472, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
Why do I need a lawyer for a counterfeiting charge?
Federal charges carry severe penalties and complex procedures. A counterfeiting charge lawyer Salisbury residents trust can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Can I be charged if I didn’t make the counterfeit money?
It depends. You can be charged under aiding and abetting or conspiracy laws if you knowingly possessed, passed, or was involved in distributing counterfeit items.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing federal charges for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US lawyer Salisbury assistance is critical. For other legal needs in Salisbury, consider our pages on Maryland Criminal Defense or Salisbury DUI Defense. For a broader view of our federal practice, visit our Maryland Federal Criminal Defense hub.
Page last verified: 2026-04. The law changes. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.