Counterfeiting Of Obligations Or Securities Of The US Lawyer in York 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 Eastern District of Virginia. If you are under investigation or charged in York County, you need a defense lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense against these criminal charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Law on Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities
The federal statute criminalizing 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. “Obligations” include currency, treasury notes, and bonds. “Securities” encompass stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments issued under U.S. authority. This offense is distinct from state-level forgery and is investigated by agencies like the U.S. Secret Service and FBI. A conviction carries severe penalties, including up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines. Defending against these charges requires a criminal attorney familiar with federal procedure and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
- Secure immediate legal representation upon learning of a federal investigation.
- Your attorney will communicate with investigators and prosecutors to assess the government’s evidence.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may involve challenging the intent to defraud or the authenticity of the evidence.
- handle pre-trial motions and hearings in federal court.
- Prepare for trial or negotiate a potential plea agreement, if in your best interest.
External Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 on the Legal Information Institute’s website. For information on federal court procedures in Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia official website.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In federal court, 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 imprisonment and fines.
| 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 | Forfeiture of assets, permanent criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
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 a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of federal criminal charges defense. Our approach is built on thorough case preparation and strategic advocacy. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, personally oversees complex federal matters and collaborates with our team of seasoned attorneys, including Matthew Greene, who brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results for Counterfeiting Of Obligations Or Securities Of The Us in York County are not listed, our firm has a documented history of handling complex federal criminal charges defense. We focus on building the strongest possible defense for each client.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near York County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients facing federal charges in York County and the surrounding Eastern District of Virginia. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 17. We serve the communities of Yorktown, Grafton, Tabb, and Seaford. For a federal criminal court lawyer near you, contact us 24/7 for phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
FAQs on Counterfeiting of U.S. Obligations or Securities
What does 18 U.S.C. § 471 prohibit?
It prohibits falsely making, forging, counterfeiting, or altering any obligation or security of the United States with intent to defraud. This includes currency, bonds, and treasury notes.
Is counterfeiting U.S. currency a state or federal crime?
It is a federal crime. The U.S. Secret Service primarily investigates these offenses, and cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in federal district court, not state court.
What should I do if I’m contacted by federal agents about a counterfeiting investigation?
Do not speak to agents without a criminal attorney present. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a defense lawyer experienced in federal law. Anything you say can be used against you.
What are the potential defenses to a counterfeiting charge?
Defenses may include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, entrapment, or challenging the authenticity of the evidence. A skilled criminal attorney will analyze the specifics of your case to identify the best defense strategy.
Why do I need a lawyer for federal counterfeiting charges?
Federal criminal charges defense is highly complex. The procedures, rules of evidence, and sentencing guidelines are different from state court. An experienced federal criminal attorney is essential to protect your rights and build an effective defense against serious criminal charges.
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in Henrico County and with DUI charges in York County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.