Federal Counterfeiting Defense Lawyer in Dinwiddie 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 up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines.
Last verified: April 2026 | Eastern District of Virginia, Richmond Division | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Counterfeiting Law: 18 U.S.C. § 471
The federal statute prohibiting the counterfeiting of U.S. obligations and securities is 18 U.S.C. § 471. This law makes it a crime to falsely make, forge, counterfeit, or alter any obligation or security of the United States with the intent to defraud. “Obligations” include currency, treasury notes, and bonds. “Securities” include stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments issued under U.S. authority. This offense is distinct from state-level forgery and is investigated by agencies like the U.S. Secret Service and the FBI. The statute is part of a broader chapter on counterfeiting and forgery, which includes related offenses like possessing counterfeit plates (18 U.S.C. § 474) and uttering counterfeit securities (18 U.S.C. § 472).
For the official text of the statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, visit the Eastern District of Virginia court website.
- Initial Investigation: Federal agents (Secret Service, FBI) may execute search warrants, seize equipment, and conduct interviews.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The U.S. Attorney’s Office presents evidence to a grand jury to secure a formal indictment.
- Arraignment: You will appear before a federal magistrate judge in Richmond to hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and file pre-trial motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement. If not, the 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.
Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting Charges
In the Eastern District of Virginia, a conviction for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the United States under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries severe mandatory penalties under federal law.
| 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) / $500,000 (organization) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent federal criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
| Possessing Counterfeit Plates (18 U.S.C. § 474) | Federal Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $250,000 | Mandatory minimum sentences may apply in certain circumstances. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Federal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to complex federal cases. We understand the high stakes of federal prosecutions and the distinct procedures of the Eastern District of Virginia. Our approach involves a meticulous review of the government’s evidence, challenging the legality of searches and seizures, and exploring all avenues for defense, including lack of intent to defraud or mistaken identity.
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
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in federal and complex criminal cases. While every case is unique, our strategic approach focuses on achieving the best possible result, whether through negotiation, dismissal, or trial. For federal charges like Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US lawyer Dinwiddie County cases, having an attorney who understands the federal system is non-negotiable.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones answered 24/7/365. Meetings by appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients in Dinwiddie County and represents them at federal court in the Eastern District of Virginia. We are accessible via I-85, Route 1, and Route 460. We serve the communities of Dinwiddie and McKenney. If you need a counterfeit currency defense lawyer Dinwiddie County or are facing any federal charge, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation.
Federal Counterfeiting Defense FAQs
What is the difference between federal and state counterfeiting charges?
Yes, there is a major difference. Federal counterfeiting charges under 18 U.S.C. § 471 involve U.S. currency, bonds, or securities and are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in federal court. State forgery charges typically involve checks, deeds, or other documents and are handled in state court. Federal penalties are generally more severe.
What should I do if I am contacted by the Secret Service about a counterfeiting investigation?
It depends. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You should politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf to protect your rights.
Can I get a public defender for a federal counterfeiting charge?
You may qualify for a court-appointed attorney (CJA panel attorney) if you cannot afford to hire one. The court will determine your eligibility based on your financial situation. However, for a complex charge like counterfeiting, hiring a private attorney with specific federal experience is often advisable due to the resource-intensive nature of the defense.
What are the possible defenses to a federal counterfeiting charge?
Potential defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, entrapment, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, or proving you lacked knowledge that the items were counterfeit. A skilled counterfeiting charge lawyer Dinwiddie County can analyze the specific facts of your case to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Where are federal cases for Dinwiddie County residents heard?
Federal cases for residents of Dinwiddie County are typically prosecuted in the Richmond Division of the Eastern District of Virginia. The federal courthouse is located in downtown Richmond. Your arraignment, hearings, and potential trial would all take place in this federal venue, not in Dinwiddie County courts.
If you are under investigation or charged with Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the United States, do not delay in seeking legal counsel. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential consultation.