Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US lawyer Arlington County: Under 18 U.S.C. § 471, counterfeiting U.S. currency or securities carries up to 20 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides federal criminal defense in Arlington County. 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Understanding Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the U.S.
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 471. This federal statute makes it a crime to falsely make, forge, or counterfeit any obligation or security of the United States, including currency, bonds, and Treasury notes. The law prohibits the creation of fake U.S. currency or securities with the intent to defraud. A conviction under this statute carries severe penalties, including up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines. The government must prove that you knowingly and willfully participated in the counterfeiting activity. Federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division, handle these cases for Arlington County. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has extensive experience defending federal counterfeiting charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code)
Official Government Resources
For the complete text of the federal counterfeiting statute, visit the 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code). For information about the federal court handling these cases, see the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (official court website).
Insider Procedural Edge for Federal Counterfeiting Cases in Arlington County
Federal counterfeiting cases in Arlington County are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division. The investigation typically involves the U.S. Secret Service, which has primary jurisdiction over counterfeiting of U.S. currency. Cases are heard at the Albert V. Bryan U.S. Courthouse in Alexandria.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately upon learning of an investigation.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve any evidence that may show lack of intent to defraud.
- Your attorney will file a pretrial release motion arguing for conditions of release.
- Your attorney will review discovery for weaknesses in the government’s case.
- Your attorney will negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable resolution.
In Arlington County, counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the U.S. carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | Supervised release up to 3 years; forfeiture of counterfeit items; criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Counterfeiting Defense?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating his deep understanding of complex legal matters. Our firm handles federal criminal cases throughout the Eastern District of Virginia, including Arlington County.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. For federal counterfeiting cases in Arlington County, our firm provides aggressive representation. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer Near Arlington County
Distance: Our Arlington Location serves clients at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, accessible via I-395 and Route 50.
Near-Me: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US lawyer near Arlington County.
Neighborhoods Served: Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, Shirlington.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US in Arlington County
What is the penalty for counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities in Arlington County?
Yes, a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries up to 20 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000. Cases are prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division.
Can counterfeiting charges be reduced or dismissed in federal court?
It depends. The government may consider a plea to a lesser charge if the evidence is weak or if you cooperated. A skilled federal defense lawyer can negotiate for a reduction or dismissal.
Do I need a lawyer for a federal counterfeiting investigation in Arlington County?
Yes. Federal investigations are serious. Speaking to agents without a lawyer can harm your case. Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
What is the difference between counterfeiting and forgery under federal law?
Counterfeiting specifically involves creating fake U.S. currency or securities. Forgery involves falsifying signatures or documents. Both are federal crimes with different statutes.
How long does a federal counterfeiting case take in Arlington County?
Federal cases typically take 6-18 months from indictment to resolution. Complex cases may take longer. The Speedy Trial Act requires trial within 70 days of indictment.