Falsificacion de obligaciones o valores de EE UU Abogado de Virginia Beach — Federal Defense
Falsificacion de obligaciones o valores de EE UU, or counterfeiting U.S. securities and obligations, is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471. In Virginia Beach, these charges are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Norfolk Division, and can lead to decades in federal prison. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Federal Statute for Counterfeiting Securities
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | United States Code.
The primary federal statute governing the counterfeiting of U.S. obligations and 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, while “securities” can encompass a broader range of government-issued financial instruments. The statute is part of a full federal framework, including 18 U.S.C. § 472 (uttering counterfeit obligations) and § 473 (dealing in counterfeit obligations), designed to protect the integrity of the U.S. financial system.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact statutory language, refer to the official U.S. Code: 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code). For local court procedures and rules, visit the website for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Virginia Beach Federal Court Process for Counterfeiting Charges
Federal counterfeiting cases in Virginia Beach follow a strict procedural path in the U.S. District Court. The process is markedly different from state court, involving federal agencies like the U.S. Secret Service or Homeland Security Investigations from the outset. Early intervention by a defense attorney familiar with federal practice is critical.
- Initial Arrest/Summons: You may be arrested by federal agents or receive a summons to appear in court following a federal indictment.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge to be formally advised of the charges, your rights, and to enter a plea.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review extensive evidence from the government and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Plea Negotiations: The vast majority of federal cases are resolved through plea agreements. Your lawyer will negotiate with the U.S. Attorney for the best possible terms, which can significantly impact sentencing.
- Trial or Sentencing: If no plea is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial. If convicted or after a guilty plea, sentencing follows federal guidelines under the U.S. Sentencing Commission.
Potential Penalties for Falsificacion de obligaciones o valores
In Virginia Beach federal court, falsificacion de obligaciones o valores de EE UU under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000 for individuals.
| Offense (U.S. Code) | Classification | Incarceration Max | Fine Max | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Counterfeiting) | Federal Felony | 20 years | $250,000 | Forfeiture of assets, supervised release, permanent criminal record. |
| 18 U.S.C. § 472 (Uttering) | Federal Felony | 20 years | $250,000 | Same as above; often charged alongside § 471. |
| 18 U.S.C. § 473 (Dealing) | Federal Felony | 10 years | $250,000 | Enhanced penalties for larger quantities of counterfeit items. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Federal Defense Experience
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 case results. We understand the high-stakes nature of federal prosecutions and the specific procedures of the Eastern District of Virginia. Our approach is built on meticulous case preparation and aggressive advocacy from the initial investigation through trial.
Case Results in Federal Defense
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented history of defending clients against serious federal allegations. While every case is unique, our firm-wide efforts have secured dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable plea agreements in cases involving fraud and financial crimes. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Virginia Beach Federal Defense Lawyer
Our legal team is accessible to clients in Virginia Beach and the surrounding region. If you are under investigation or charged with falsificacion de obligaciones o valores de EE UU, immediate action is critical.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
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FAQs: Falsificacion de obligaciones o valores de EE UU Charges
What does “falsificacion de obligaciones o valores de EE UU” mean?
It is the federal crime of counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities, such as currency, bonds, or Treasury notes, with intent to defraud, prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 471.
What court handles these charges in Virginia Beach?
These are federal crimes. They are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Norfolk Division, not in Virginia Beach General District or Circuit Court.
What is the possible prison sentence?
The maximum penalty under 18 U.S.C. § 471 is 20 years in federal prison, plus substantial fines. The actual sentence depends on the specific facts and your criminal history under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
What agencies investigate these crimes?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for counterfeit currency investigations. Other agencies like Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) or the FBI may also be involved, especially for complex financial instruments.
Can I be charged if I didn’t make the counterfeit items myself?
Yes. Federal law also criminalizes “uttering” (passing) counterfeit items (18 U.S.C. § 472) and “dealing” in them (§ 473). You can face serious charges even if you were not the original counterfeiter.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other federal charges, our firm also handles Federal Crimes and Fraud defense. For an overview of our federal practice, visit our Virginia Federal Crimes Lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.