Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US lawyer Virginia: Federal counterfeiting charges under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carry up to 20 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Understanding Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US in Virginia
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal District Courts in Virginia (EDVA/WDVA) | 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code)
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US involves the false making, forging, or altering of any obligation or security of the United States with intent to defraud. This includes currency, bonds, treasury notes, and other federal securities. Under 18 U.S.C. § 471, the government must prove you knowingly and willfully participated in the counterfeiting activity. Federal prosecutors in Virginia’s Eastern and Western Districts aggressively pursue these cases. A conviction carries severe penalties including substantial prison time and fines. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides experienced federal criminal defense representation for these complex charges.
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US specifically targets the unauthorized reproduction of federal currency and securities. Unlike general fraud offenses, this statute requires proof that the item counterfeited is an actual obligation or security of the United States government. The federal counterfeiting statute (18 U.S.C. § 471) is the primary charging document for these cases in Virginia federal courts.
Official Government Resources
- 18 U.S.C. § 471 — Counterfeiting Obligations or Securities (official U.S. Code)
- U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (official court website)
Insider Procedural Edge for Federal Counterfeiting Cases in Virginia
Federal counterfeiting cases in Virginia typically begin with a Secret Service investigation. The government often uses undercover operations and financial record analysis to build their case. Prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia (Alexandria division) are known for aggressive charging decisions on counterfeiting offenses.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately upon learning of an investigation or arrest.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your lawyer present — anything you say can be used against you.
- Preserve all evidence and documentation that may support your defense, including financial records and communications.
- Your lawyer will file necessary motions, including motions to suppress evidence obtained through illegal search or seizure.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with federal prosecutors for potential charge reduction or dismissal where appropriate.
- If the case proceeds to trial, your lawyer will prepare a full defense strategy case-specific to the specific facts of your case.
In Virginia federal courts, Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting Obligations or Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 or more | Federal employment restrictions | Federal supervised release up to 3 years; asset forfeiture; loss of civil rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Counterfeiting Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” We provide strong federal criminal defense representation for clients facing Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US charges in Virginia.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our federal criminal defense team has experience handling complex counterfeiting cases in Virginia federal courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax Location
Our Fairfax location is accessible via I-66 and Route 50, serving clients at federal courts in the Eastern District of Virginia.
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US lawyer near Fairfax, Virginia
Neighborhoods Served: Fairfax, Arlington, Reston, Herndon, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Centreville, Chantilly, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church, Manassas, Woodbridge, Leesburg, Ashburn, Warrenton, Stafford, Fredericksburg
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Address: 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US in Virginia
Do I need a lawyer for a federal counterfeiting charge in Virginia?
Yes. Federal counterfeiting charges carry up to 20 years in prison. An experienced federal criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights and build a strong defense.
What is the difference between counterfeiting and forgery under federal law?
Counterfeiting specifically involves the false making of U.S. obligations or securities (like currency or bonds). Forgery typically involves falsifying signatures or documents for financial gain.
Can a counterfeiting charge be reduced or dismissed in Virginia federal court?
It depends. Your lawyer may negotiate with prosecutors for charge reduction or dismissal based on lack of intent, insufficient evidence, or procedural violations. Early intervention is critical.
How long does a federal counterfeiting case take in Virginia?
Federal counterfeiting cases typically take 6-18 months from arrest to resolution. Complex cases involving multiple defendants or extensive financial analysis may take longer.
What should I do if I am being investigated for counterfeiting in Virginia?
Do not speak to law enforcement without your lawyer present. Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Preserve any relevant documents and evidence.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.