Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Southampton, Virginia
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, carrying severe penalties. If you are under investigation or have been charged in Southampton, Virginia, you need a defense lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these complex criminal charges.
Federal Statute for Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is prosecuted under Title 18 of the U.S. Code. The primary statute is 18 U.S.C. § 471, which 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 securities. The law is enforced by federal agencies like the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the federal law, you can review 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code). For local court procedures and rules in the jurisdiction that serves Southampton, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Defending Against Federal Counterfeiting Charges in Southampton
Federal counterfeiting cases are complex and require a defense lawyer who understands the intricate procedures of U.S. District Court. The prosecution must prove you had the specific intent to defraud. A strong defense may involve challenging the evidence of intent, the authenticity of the alleged counterfeit items, or the legality of the investigation. Early intervention by a skilled criminal attorney is critical to building an effective defense strategy.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Contact a federal defense lawyer as soon as you suspect you are under investigation. Do not speak to federal agents without an attorney present.
- Case Assessment & Investigation: Your lawyer will review all evidence, including search warrants, forensic reports, and witness statements, to identify weaknesses in the government’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or to challenge the sufficiency of the charges.
- Negotiation & Strategy: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will advise on the best path forward, which may involve negotiating a plea agreement or preparing for trial.
- Trial Defense: If the case proceeds to trial, your defense lawyer will present a vigorous defense, cross-examine government witnesses, and argue for your acquittal.
Penalties for Counterfeiting U.S. Securities
In federal court, a conviction for counterfeiting 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 or Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of federal court and provide a focused, strategic defense for clients facing serious charges like counterfeiting.
Case Results in Federal Defense
Our attorneys have a proven record of achieving favorable results in complex cases. For example, our team secured a reduction of a serious reckless driving charge to improper driving in Southampton County. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome. In federal cases, our defense lawyers work diligently to challenge evidence, negotiate favorable terms, and protect our clients’ futures.
Our secondary attorney on federal criminal matters, Matthew Greene, brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing deep insight into high-stakes litigation.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Southampton
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients in Southampton and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only. If you need a federal criminal defense lawyer near Southampton, contact us for a consultation.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Charges
What does “obligations or securities of the United States” mean?
It refers to U.S. currency, Treasury bonds, notes, bills, stamps, and other financial instruments issued by the U.S. government. Counterfeiting any of these items is a federal crime.
Is possessing counterfeit money a crime?
Yes. Possessing counterfeit obligations with the intent to defraud is also a federal crime under a separate statute, 18 U.S.C. § 472, and carries similar severe penalties.
What should I do if I’m contacted by the Secret Service?
It depends. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You should politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a criminal attorney who handles federal cases. Speaking to agents without a lawyer can jeopardize your defense.
Can a defense lawyer help if the evidence seems strong?
Yes. Even with strong evidence, a skilled defense lawyer can negotiate for reduced charges or a favorable plea agreement. They can also ensure your rights were not violated during the investigation, which could lead to evidence being suppressed.
What is the difference between state and federal counterfeiting charges?
Counterfeiting U.S. currency is exclusively a federal crime. State charges may apply to forging checks or other documents, but forging federal instruments is prosecuted in U.S. District Court under federal law, which typically carries longer sentences.
Internal Resources
For more information on federal defense, visit our Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related matters in Southampton, such as traffic violations and obstruction of justice charges.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.