Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Worcester County, MD
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. A conviction can result in severe penalties, including up to 20 years in federal prison.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
Federal Law on Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US
The federal statute governing the counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US 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. “Obligations or securities” include currency, treasury notes, bonds, and other instruments issued under the authority of the United States. This is a distinct charge from simple counterfeit currency possession and involves more complex allegations of production or alteration.
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, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
Defending Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities Charges in Worcester County
Federal counterfeiting cases in Maryland are typically investigated by the U.S. Secret Service or the FBI. These cases originate from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. For a resident of Worcester County, the procedural path may involve initial appearances in Greenbelt or Baltimore, followed by proceedings in the federal district court. A strong defense challenges the intent to defraud, the authenticity of the evidence, and the methods used in the investigation.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: You may be contacted by federal agents. It is imperative not to speak with them without your attorney present.
- Federal Indictment: Charges are formally brought via a grand jury indictment, which outlines the specific allegations under 18 U.S.C. § 471.
- Arraignment: You will appear in U.S. District Court to hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motion Practice: Your attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence, your attorney will advise on whether to negotiate a plea or proceed to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are severe for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US.
Potential Penalties for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities
A conviction for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture, permanent criminal 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 team includes former prosecutors and attorneys experienced in federal court. We approach each case with a detailed strategy, understanding that federal charges require a defense attuned to complex procedures and evidentiary standards.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of handling complex criminal cases. While specific results for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in Worcester County are not listed here, our attorneys have successfully defended clients against serious federal charges. For example, we have secured dismissals in federal misdemeanor sex abuse cases and favorable dispositions in other complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Worcester County
Our Maryland office represents clients facing federal charges in Worcester County. We serve communities including Snow Hill, Ocean City, Berlin, Pocomoke City, Ocean Pines, and Bishopville.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Defense
What is the difference between counterfeit currency and counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US?
Yes, there is a key difference. Simple possession or passing of counterfeit money is often charged under 18 U.S.C. § 472. Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US under 18 U.S.C. § 471 specifically involves the act of falsely making, forging, or altering U.S. obligations (like currency or bonds) with intent to defraud, which typically carries more severe penalties.
What should I do if federal agents want to question me about a counterfeiting investigation?
Politely decline to answer questions and state you wish to speak with an attorney. Contact a counterfeiting charge lawyer Worcester County immediately. Anything you say can be used against you, and federal investigators are trained to obtain incriminating statements. Having counsel present before any interview is your fundamental right.
Can I get a public defender for a federal counterfeiting case?
It depends. The court will appoint a federal public defender or a CJA (Criminal Justice Act) panel attorney if you are found financially unable to retain counsel. The eligibility standards are strict. A counterfeit currency defense lawyer Worcester County from a private firm can often provide more individualized attention and resources for a complex case.
What are the possible defenses to 18 U.S.C. § 471 charges?
Potential defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, challenging the authenticity of the alleged counterfeit item, entrapment, and violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation (like illegal search and seizure). An attorney will analyze the specific facts and forensic evidence to build your defense.
Is probation a possibility for a counterfeiting of obligations or securities conviction?
It is highly unlikely for a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 471. Federal sentencing guidelines for this serious felony prioritize incarceration. However, in rare circumstances with minimal offender history and other mitigating factors, a sentence below the guideline range that includes probation could be possible, but should not be expected.