Fraud Lawyer New Kent County — Defending Against State & Federal Charges
A fraud charge in New Kent County is a serious matter prosecuted under Virginia’s criminal code or federal statutes, carrying severe penalties. As a fraud lawyer New Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for charges like embezzlement, identity theft, and bank fraud. Our firm has documented results in Virginia courts. We offer 24/7 consultations.
Virginia Fraud Laws and Penalties
Fraud offenses in Virginia are primarily defined under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Common charges include obtaining money or property by false pretenses (Va. Code § 18.2-178), embezzlement (§ 18.2-111), credit card fraud (§ 18.2-195), and identity theft (§ 18.2-186.3). The classification and penalties depend on the value involved. For instance, obtaining property valued at $1,000 or more is a felony, while lesser amounts may be misdemeanors. A conviction can result in incarceration, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s fraud statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Title 18.2, Chapter 6). Court information for New Kent County can be found at the New Kent County Combined Courts website.
Local Court Process for Fraud Charges in New Kent County
Fraud cases in New Kent County typically begin in the New Kent County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings for felonies. Felony trials are held in New Kent County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. Early intervention by a fraud charge defense lawyer New Kent County is critical to challenge the evidence and explore pre-trial resolutions.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: You will be arraigned, informed of the charges, and a bond hearing will be set.
- Secure Counsel: Contact a defense attorney immediately. Do not speak to investigators without legal representation.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your lawyer will obtain all evidence from the prosecution and conduct an independent investigation.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Strategy: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for a bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence or file an appeal.
Potential Penalties for Fraud Convictions
In New Kent County, fraud penalties range from misdemeanors with jail time to felonies with multi-year prison sentences, depending on the statute violated and the value involved.
| Offense (Virginia Code) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obtaining by False Pretenses (< $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Restitution, Criminal Record |
| Obtaining by False Pretenses (≥ $1,000) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | At court’s discretion | Restitution, Felony Record, Loss of Professional Licenses |
| Embezzlement | Larceny (Based on value) | Misdemeanor or Felony terms | Varies | Restitution, Civil Liability |
| Identity Theft | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Class 5 Felony | Up to 12 months to 1-10 years | Up to $2,500+ | Restitution, Long-term credit impact |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Fraud Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and attorneys with deep experience in financial and white-collar matters. We understand that a fraud accusation can threaten your liberty, finances, and reputation. We build defenses by meticulously analyzing financial records, challenging the element of intent, and negotiating with prosecutors. For federal fraud charges, which carry typically longer sentences, our white collar crime defense lawyer New Kent County team, including Mr. Sris, provides experienced representation.
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 & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In fraud and related financial charge defenses, strategic early intervention is key. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, brings additional strategic oversight to complex cases. We focus on protecting your rights from the initial investigation through trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Kent County Fraud Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County, including the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33.
Fraud lawyer near New Kent County Courthouse. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Fraud Defense FAQs for New Kent County
What should I do if I’m under investigation for fraud in Virginia?
No. Do not speak to law enforcement or investigators without an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a fraud lawyer New Kent County. Anything you say can be used against you.
What is the difference between state and federal fraud charges?
It depends on the alleged conduct and investigating agency. State fraud charges (Va. Code) are prosecuted in Virginia courts for crimes like check fraud or embezzlement. Federal charges (18 U.S.C.) involve agencies like the FBI or IRS and crimes affecting interstate commerce, like wire fraud or bank fraud. Federal penalties are often more severe.
Can I go to jail for a first-time fraud offense?
Yes. Virginia law mandates the possibility of jail time for most fraud convictions, even first offenses. The amount of loss is a major factor. A skilled fraud charge defense lawyer New Kent County can work to avoid jail through negotiation or alternative sentencing.
What defenses are available against fraud accusations?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, entrapment, or that the transaction was a legitimate loan or gift. Your attorney will analyze the specifics to build the strongest defense strategy.
Why do I need a white collar crime defense lawyer for a fraud case?
A white collar crime defense lawyer New Kent County has specific experience with complex financial evidence, forensic accounting, and the procedural rules in these cases. This experience is crucial for effectively challenging the prosecution’s evidence and negotiating with specialized prosecutors.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing fraud charges, you may also want to learn about Virginia criminal defense. For residents in nearby areas, see our pages for Henrico County criminal defense and Chesterfield County criminal defense. For other legal needs in New Kent County, we also assist with DUI defense and family law matters.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.