Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Chesterfield 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 Eastern District of Virginia. A conviction can result in decades in federal prison, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Federal Counterfeiting Law and Penalties
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 471. This statute makes it a crime 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.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code)
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in analyzing complex financial evidence often present in counterfeiting cases.
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the statutes and the court where your case will be heard is critical. Use these official government resources:
Defending Against Federal Counterfeiting Charges in Chesterfield County
Federal counterfeiting investigations in Chesterfield County are typically conducted by the U.S. Secret Service or the FBI. The case will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. The procedural path is distinct from state court, involving grand jury indictments, extensive discovery, and sentencing under the strict Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: If you suspect you are under investigation, do not speak to agents without an attorney. Contact a federal defense lawyer immediately.
- Grand Jury Proceedings: The prosecution will present evidence to a federal grand jury to secure an indictment.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: After arrest or summons, you will be arraigned. Your attorney can argue for your release pending trial.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer will review all evidence and file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if constitutional violations occurred.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in federal district court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the face value of the counterfeit items and your criminal history.
Potential Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting
In the federal system, counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000 for an individual.
| 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 | Forfeiture of assets, permanent federal criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Federal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney and a former prosecutor, personally handles or oversees federal criminal defense matters. His unique background in accounting and information systems is particularly valuable for dissecting financial evidence in counterfeiting and fraud cases. The firm’s approach is collaborative, ensuring every client benefits from deep, strategic analysis.
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
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in Chesterfield County are not publicly verifiable, the firm’s federal defense team draws on a broad base of experience. Mr. Sris and attorney Matthew Greene, who has over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification, work collaboratively on federal matters. Defense strategies focus on challenging the intent to defraud, the authenticity of evidence, and negotiating for reduced charges or sentences where possible.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing federal charges in Chesterfield County and the surrounding Central Virginia area. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 360.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Serving: Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, Moseley, and throughout Central Virginia.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities Defense
What does “counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States” mean?
It is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 471 to falsely make, forge, counterfeit, or alter any U.S. obligation or security (like currency or bonds) with intent to defraud. This is distinct from state-level counterfeit currency charges and is prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
What agency investigates counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for investigating counterfeit U.S. currency and securities. The FBI may also be involved in complex financial fraud cases. Investigations often involve forensic analysis and undercover operations.
What are the penalties for a federal counterfeiting conviction?
A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 471 can result in up to 20 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and mandatory asset forfeiture. Sentences are guided by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the amount and sophistication of the operation.
Why do I need a specific federal criminal defense lawyer for this charge?
Federal court procedures, sentencing rules, and prosecution tactics differ significantly from state court. A counterfeiting charge lawyer Chesterfield County with federal experience understands grand juries, federal discovery, the Sentencing Guidelines, and how to negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Can I get a plea deal in a federal counterfeiting case?
Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement. An experienced counterfeit currency defense lawyer Chesterfield County can negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges or argue for a lower sentencing range based on mitigating factors, though outcomes depend on the evidence.
What should I do if I’m contacted by federal agents about counterfeiting?
Politely decline to answer questions and state you wish to speak with an attorney. Do not consent to any searches. Contact a federal defense lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing federal charges in Chesterfield County, you may also need information on: Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer, Business Lawyer Chesterfield County, or DUI Lawyer Chesterfield County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US.