False claims under 18 U.S.C. § 287 and 31 U.S.C. § 3729 involve knowingly submitting fraudulent claims to the U.S. government. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Augusta County. A conviction can carry up to 5 years in prison, fines, and treble damages. You need a skilled False Claims lawyer Augusta County trusts for federal defense.
False Claims Lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia
The federal False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. § 3729) prohibits knowingly presenting a false or fraudulent claim for payment to the U.S. government. Criminal penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 287 include up to 5 years in prison, fines, and restitution. Civil penalties include treble damages and per-claim fines of up to $13,508. These cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | justice.gov
For the full text of the False Claims Act, see 31 U.S.C. § 3729 (U.S. Department of Justice — official site) and 18 U.S.C. § 287 (Cornell LII — official U.S. Code).
In the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek indictments through federal grand juries in Roanoke or Charlottesville. We have observed that early intervention before an indictment is issued can significantly affect the outcome.
- Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents, emails, and records related to the claim.
- Contact a federal false claims defense lawyer Augusta County immediately.
- Review any target letter or subpoena with your lawyer.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable resolution.
- Prepare for potential litigation at the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia.
In Augusta County, false claims under federal law carry severe penalties including imprisonment, fines, and treble damages.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| False Claims (18 U.S.C. § 287) | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Potential debarment from federal contracts | Restitution, supervised release, no parole |
| False Claims (31 U.S.C. § 3729 — Civil) | Civil Violation | None | Treble damages + $13,508 per claim | Potential debarment | Exclusion from federal programs |
Results may vary.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 documented results in Augusta County: 0 dismissed or not guilty, 13 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Our location in Woodstock is approximately 60 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia (Charlottesville Division), with access via I-81 and I-64.
False Claims lawyer near Augusta County.
Serving the communities of Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, Churchville.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our location: 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664 | (888) 437-7747 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About False Claims in Augusta County
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical.
What is federal criminal court and how is it different in VA?
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines than state charges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles federal defense — (888) 437-7747.
How do federal sentencing guidelines work in Augusta County, Virginia?
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines — a points-based calculation using offense level and criminal history category. While advisory since Booker (2005), guidelines strongly influence sentencing. Mandatory minimum statutes override downward departures in many drug, firearm, and child exploitation offenses. Acceptance of responsibility, substantial assistance (§ 5K1.1), and safety-valve eligibility materially reduce exposure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — (888) 437-7747.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against false claims charges?
Defense strategies for false claims in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 18 U.S.C. § 287 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing false claims charges in Virginia?
If facing false claims charges in Virginia, contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under federal law require prompt action.
Learn more about our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia services.
See also: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Albemarle County and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Alexandria.
Related practice areas: Business Closure Lawyer Augusta County and Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Augusta County.
Last verified: April 2026. This page is regularly updated to reflect changes in federal law and court procedures.