Securities Fraud Lawyer Virginia — Federal Financial Crime Defense

Securities fraud in Virginia is a serious federal crime prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 1348, carrying severe penalties. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a Virginia securities fraud lawyer with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for individuals and professionals facing complex financial crime allegations.

Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly

What is Securities Fraud Under Federal Law?

Securities fraud, often called investment fraud, involves deceptive practices in the stock or commodities markets that induce investors to make purchase or sale decisions based on false information. In Virginia, these cases are almost exclusively prosecuted in federal court by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The primary statute is 18 U.S.C. § 1348 (Securities and Commodities Fraud), which is part of the broader federal fraud framework. Violations can also involve the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and rules enforced by the SEC. A fraud attorney must understand the intricate interplay between criminal statutes and complex financial regulations.

Key Federal Statutes and Virginia Courts

Securities fraud charges are built on federal law. Key statutes include:

• 18 U.S.C. § 1348 (Securities and Commodities Fraud): The main criminal statute, carrying penalties of up to 25 years imprisonment and fines.
• 15 U.S.C. § 78j (Securities Exchange Act § 10(b)): The foundational anti-fraud provision for securities transactions.
• SEC Rule 10b-5: The regulatory rule that implements § 10(b), prohibiting material misstatements or omissions.

In Virginia, these cases are heard in the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern District (Alexandria or Richmond) or the Western District (Roanoke). For official statute text, see 18 U.S.C. § 1348. For court procedures, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.

1. Initial Investigation: You may receive a subpoena, be contacted by the FBI or SEC, or learn your employer is under scrutiny.
2. Charging Decision: Federal prosecutors present evidence to a grand jury, which may return an indictment.
3. Arraignment & Pre-Trial: You appear in federal court, enter a plea, and engage in extensive pre-trial motion practice and discovery.
4. Trial or Resolution: The case may proceed to a complex federal jury trial or be resolved through negotiation.
5. Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are often severe for financial crimes.

Potential Penalties for Securities Fraud

In Virginia, a federal securities fraud conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 1348 carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison and significant fines for each count.

Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.

Firm Experience in Federal Financial Crime Defense

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand that federal securities fraud charges threaten your liberty, career, and reputation. Our approach involves a meticulous review of the evidence, challenging the government’s proof of intent—a key element in any fraud case—and exploring all procedural and substantive defenses.

Documented Case Results

Our firm has a documented track record across federal and state courts. While every case is unique, our strategic approach focuses on achieving the best possible outcome, whether through pre-trial dismissal, negotiation, or trial. For fraud charges defense, we analyze every transaction and communication to protect your rights.

Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.

Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer | Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Virginia Traffic Lawyer