Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Washington County, NY
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US is a serious federal crime prosecuted in Washington County, NY, under 18 U.S.C. § 471, carrying penalties of up to 20 years in prison. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for those accused of creating or passing counterfeit currency or government securities.
What Is Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US?
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a federal crime defined under Title 18 of the U.S. Code. This statute makes it illegal 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-issued financial instruments. A conviction is a felony with severe consequences. If you are under investigation or have been charged, securing a counterfeiting charge lawyer Washington County is critical to protect your rights and future.
Last verified: April 2026 | Washington County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local court procedures and information, visit the Washington County Supreme Court website.
Defending Counterfeiting Charges in Washington County
Federal counterfeiting cases in Washington County are typically investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York. The process is complex and moves quickly from investigation to indictment. An experienced counterfeit currency defense lawyer Washington County understands that early intervention can be key. In many cases, the defense may challenge the intent to defraud, the authenticity of the evidence, or the procedures used in the investigation. A strong defense requires meticulous examination of the government’s case and experienced knowledge of federal sentencing guidelines.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a federal defense attorney immediately if you suspect you are under investigation or after arrest.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: Your lawyer will obtain all discovery from the prosecution to analyze the strength of their case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally or to challenge the charges.
- Negotiation: Engage in plea negotiations with federal prosecutors to seek a favorable resolution, potentially avoiding trial.
- Trial Preparation: If no agreement is reached, prepare a vigorous defense for trial in U.S. District Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, advocate for the most lenient sentence possible under the federal guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In Washington County, a federal conviction for counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities under 18 U.S.C. § 471 can result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years 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 criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
| Possessing Counterfeit Securities (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Same as above. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Defense
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results, our team brings substantial resources to federal cases. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney, personally oversees complex federal matters. His background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in financial crime cases like counterfeiting. We approach each case with a collaborative strategy, drawing on the deep experience of our entire firm.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US lawyer Washington County cases are confidential, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. SRIS, P.C. has achieved over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93% firm-wide. We have successfully defended clients against a wide array of federal and state charges, from dismissal at the investigatory stage to favorable verdicts at trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Federal Defense Representation
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838) 292-0003
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients facing federal charges in Washington County and the broader Capital District. We represent individuals in communities like Fort Edward, Hudson Falls, Greenwich, Cambridge, Granville, Salem, Whitehall, and Kingsbury. As a federal counterfeiting charge lawyer Washington County residents can consult, we are accessible for clients throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (Counterfeiting Defense)
What is the difference between counterfeiting currency and counterfeiting securities?
It depends on the item. Counterfeiting currency involves fake U.S. bills or coins. Counterfeiting securities involves forging government bonds, treasury notes, or other financial instruments. Both are prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 471 with similar severe penalties, requiring a skilled counterfeit currency defense lawyer Washington County.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the money was counterfeit?
Yes. Knowledge and intent are central to the charge. Prosecutors must prove you knew the items were counterfeit and intended to defraud. A strong defense often focuses on challenging the evidence of your knowledge and intent.
What should I do if the Secret Service wants to question me?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney. Do not answer any questions without your lawyer present. Call a counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US lawyer Washington County immediately at (888) 437-7747. Anything you say can be used against you.
Are there any defenses to a federal counterfeiting charge?
Yes. Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, entrapment, or challenging the legality of the search and seizure that found the evidence. An experienced attorney will analyze all aspects of the case to identify the best defense strategy.
What is the typical sentence for a first-time counterfeiting offense?
Sentencing follows federal guidelines based on the face value of the counterfeit items and your criminal history. For a first-time offender with a small amount, probation may be possible. However, the statute allows for up to 20 years, making skilled legal representation essential.
Related Legal Services in Washington County
If you are facing other federal or state charges in Washington County, our firm can help. We also handle federal criminal defense, state criminal defense, and business law. For a full list of our practice areas in New York, visit our New York federal criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current information regarding counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US lawyer Washington County services, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.