Fraud Lawyer Fairfax — Defending Against State & Federal Fraud Charges
Fraud charges in Fairfax County are serious, ranging from Class 1 misdemeanors to federal felonies under statutes like Va. Code § 18.2-178. A conviction can mean jail, fines, and a permanent criminal record. A fraud lawyer Fairfax from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. We have 501 documented results in Fairfax County. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation by appointment.
Virginia Fraud Laws and Penalties
Virginia law defines multiple fraud offenses, primarily under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. The most common is Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (Va. Code § 18.2-178), which becomes a felony if the value is $1,000 or more. Other related charges include credit card fraud, identity theft, and embezzlement. Each carries significant penalties that escalate with the amount involved or the victim targeted.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-178 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Fairfax County General District Court website
Defending Fraud Charges in Fairfax County Courts
Prosecutors in Fairfax County aggressively pursue fraud cases. A successful defense often hinges on challenging the intent element—proving you did not knowingly make a false representation. Our team examines evidence, interviews witnesses, and scrutinizes financial records to build your case.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: We review the warrant, summons, or indictment to understand the specific allegations and potential penalties.
- Evidence Review & Investigation: We obtain discovery from the prosecution, analyze financial documents, and identify weaknesses in the state’s case regarding intent or value.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: We file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for possible reduction or dismissal.
- Trial Preparation & Defense: If a plea cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Fairfax County General District Court or Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Fraud in Virginia
In Fairfax County, fraud penalties depend on the statute violated and the value involved, ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class 3 felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (< $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution |
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (≥ $1,000) | Class 5 Felony (if $1,000+) Class 3 Felony (if $100,000+) |
1-10 years (Class 5) 5-20 years (Class 3) |
At court’s discretion | Felony record, restitution, loss of professional licenses |
| Credit Card Fraud (Va. Code § 18.2-195) | Varies by value | 6 months to 20 years | Up to $2,500+ | Restitution, federal charges possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Fraud Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. In Fairfax County alone, we have documented 501 criminal case results, with 336 dismissed or found not guilty and 143 reduced or amended—a 97% favorable outcome rate. Our white collar crime defense lawyer Fairfax team understands the financial and technical details of fraud cases.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results in Fairfax County
Our firm’s documented results in Fairfax County demonstrate our approach. For example, we have secured outcomes such as reduction of felony fraud charges to misdemeanors and cases where charges were dismissed following pre-trial motions. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Fairfax Fraud Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365. Office by appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We provide representation for residents of Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. Contact us for a fraud lawyer near Fairfax.
FAQs: Fraud Charges in Fairfax, VA
What is the difference between state and federal fraud charges?
Yes, there is a major difference. State fraud charges are prosecuted under Virginia law in Fairfax County courts. Federal fraud charges (like wire or mail fraud under 18 U.S.C.) are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in federal court, often involve interstate commerce, and typically carry longer sentences.
Can I go to jail for a first-time fraud offense in Virginia?
It depends on the charge value. A first-time Class 1 misdemeanor fraud charge (under $1,000) can carry up to 12 months in jail. For felony fraud ($1,000+), state sentencing guidelines may recommend incarceration. An experienced fraud charge defense lawyer Fairfax can argue for alternatives like probation or suspended sentences.
What should I do if I am under investigation for fraud?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a white collar crime defense lawyer Fairfax. We can communicate on your behalf, help you understand your rights, and work to prevent charges from being filed or to influence the direction of the investigation.
Is restitution always required in a fraud case?
Yes, Virginia courts almost always order restitution—repayment of the defrauded amount—as part of the sentence in a fraud conviction, even if jail time is suspended. A skilled fraud lawyer Fairfax can negotiate the amount and payment terms.
How long does a fraud case take in Fairfax County?
A misdemeanor fraud case in General District Court may take 4-8 weeks from arraignment to trial. A felony fraud case in Circuit Court typically takes 3-9 months. Federal fraud cases can take 6-18 months or longer due to complex evidence.
Related Legal Services in Fairfax County
If you are facing related charges, our firm also provides strong defense for: DUI/DWI in Fairfax, other criminal charges in Fairfax, and federal crimes. For a full overview of our criminal practice, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.