Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Botetourt County, VA
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, prosecuted in the Western District of Virginia. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a federal criminal defense lawyer with experience in Botetourt County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for these complex cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Western District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 471
The federal crime of counterfeiting obligations or securities of the United States is defined in Title 18, Section 471 of the U.S. Code. This statute makes it illegal to falsely make, forge, counterfeit, or alter any obligation or security of the United States with the intent to defraud. This includes U.S. currency, Treasury bonds, and other government securities. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, defends clients in Botetourt County and across the Western District of Virginia against these severe federal allegations.
Federal Statute and Penalties for Counterfeiting
The primary statute, 18 U.S.C. § 471, is part of a broader chapter on counterfeiting and forgery. Conviction carries severe penalties, including up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines. The government must prove you acted with intent to defraud. Related statutes include § 472 (passing counterfeit obligations) and § 473 (dealing in counterfeit obligations).
In the Western District of Virginia, a conviction for counterfeiting obligations or securities of the United States under 18 U.S.C. § 471 can result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years and fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations/Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent federal criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
| Passing Counterfeit Obligations (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Same as above. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Federal Defense Strategy in Botetourt County
Federal counterfeiting cases in Botetourt County are typically investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia. A strong defense often challenges the intent to defraud, the authenticity of the evidence, or the methods used in the investigation. Early intervention is critical, even before an indictment is filed.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: If you suspect you are under federal investigation, contact a federal defense lawyer immediately. Do not speak to agents without counsel.
- Pre-Indictment Strategy: Your attorney may engage in discussions with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to present mitigating evidence or argue against indictment.
- Arraignment & Plea: If indicted, you will be arraigned in federal court. Your lawyer will advise on pleading not guilty to preserve all defense options.
- Discovery & Motions: Your defense team will review all evidence and file pre-trial motions, which may seek to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Negotiation: The case will proceed to a federal jury trial or may be resolved through plea negotiations, often involving the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence under the advisory guidelines.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal criminal defense. Founded in 1997, our firm has a documented record of handling complex federal matters. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, personally leads on serious federal cases, supported by a team with deep knowledge of federal procedure and the courts in the Western District of 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
Our team includes experienced attorneys like Matthew Greene, who brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and extensive work on complex criminal cases. We approach each counterfeiting charge with a case-specific defense strategy built on thorough investigation and an understanding of federal law.
Contact Our Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location — 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients with federal matters in Botetourt County and the surrounding I-81 corridor. We provide federal criminal defense lawyer services near Fincastle, Daleville, and Troutville. Contact us 24/7 to schedule a confidential consultation by appointment.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities Defense
What does “obligations or securities of the United States” mean in 18 U.S.C. § 471?
It includes U.S. currency (bills, coins), Treasury bonds, notes, bills, stamps, and other official government financial instruments. The law protects the integrity of all U.S. financial instruments.
What is the potential penalty for a counterfeiting charge under 18 U.S.C. § 471?
It is a federal felony punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for an individual. Sentences are guided by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the face value of the counterfeit items and the defendant’s criminal history.
Who investigates counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in Botetourt County?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for investigating counterfeit currency and securities. Other agencies like the FBI or IRS may be involved depending on the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia prosecutes these cases.
What are common defenses to a federal counterfeiting charge?
Key defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, entrapment, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or arguing that the items were not obligations of the United States. A skilled counterfeit currency defense lawyer Botetourt County can evaluate the best strategy.
Should I talk to federal agents if I’m suspected of counterfeiting?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Speaking to agents without counsel can severely harm your case.
What should I look for in a counterfeiting charge lawyer Botetourt County?
Look for a lawyer with specific experience in federal court and Title 18 fraud/counterfeiting statutes. Experience with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia and knowledge of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines is crucial for an effective defense.
If you are facing allegations of counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in Botetourt County, do not delay. Virginia federal criminal lawyers at SRIS, P.C. are available 24/7. We also assist clients with related matters like business law and DUI defense in Botetourt County.