Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer Fairfax — Federal Defense
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US 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. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for Fairfax residents facing these complex federal charges.
Federal Statute for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US
The primary federal law prohibiting the counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US is 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 | Federal statutes are uniform nationwide. | 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code)
Related statutes often charged alongside § 471 include 18 U.S.C. § 472 (uttering counterfeit obligations) and 18 U.S.C. § 473 (dealing in counterfeit obligations). The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, has experience handling complex federal financial crimes. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides an advantage in cases involving financial evidence.
Official Federal Resources
Defending Against Federal Counterfeiting Charges in Fairfax
Federal counterfeiting cases in Fairfax are typically investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (Alexandria Division). The process is markedly different from state court. A strong defense requires challenging the government’s evidence of intent to defraud and the authenticity of the alleged counterfeit items. Forensic analysis and experienced testimony are often critical.
- Initial Investigation: The Secret Service or other federal agency conducts an investigation, which may include surveillance, search warrants, and undercover operations.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: If arrested, you will have an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Alexandria or another federal courthouse. Bond conditions are set.
- Grand Jury Indictment: A federal grand jury reviews evidence and issues an indictment if probable cause is found. This is required for felony charges.
- Arraignment & Plea: You are formally charged and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty in U.S. District Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews all evidence (discovery) and files pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a plea agreement, often involving cooperation or acceptance of responsibility.
Penalties for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities
In federal court, a conviction for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison 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) / $500,000 (organization) | Forfeiture of assets, permanent federal criminal record, loss of certain civil rights. |
| Uttering Counterfeit Obligations (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Same as above. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases like counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US. Our firm-wide track includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, providing a distinct advantage in dissecting financial evidence. We understand the high stakes of federal court and provide a full, case-specific defense.
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 in Federal and Financial Crimes
While specific results for federal counterfeiting charges are not listed in our public database, our firm has extensive experience with federal financial crimes and related complex defenses. Our approach focuses on challenging the intent element and the authenticity of evidence. For a counterfeiting charge lawyer Fairfax with federal experience, contact our team to discuss your specific situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Fairfax Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients facing federal charges at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only. We serve communities throughout Fairfax County including Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US
What does “obligations or securities of the United States” mean?
It includes U.S. currency (bills, coins), Treasury bonds, notes, bills, stamps, and other instruments issued under the authority of the U.S. government. Counterfeiting any of these items with intent to defraud violates 18 U.S.C. § 471.
Is possessing counterfeit money a federal crime?
Yes, if you know the money is counterfeit and intend to use it. Mere possession without intent to defraud may be harder to prove, but it can still lead to investigation and charges under related statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 472.
What is the difference between counterfeiting and uttering?
Counterfeiting (18 U.S.C. § 471) involves creating the fake item. Uttering (18 U.S.C. § 472) involves passing, publishing, or attempting to pass a counterfeit item as genuine. You can be charged with both.
Can I get a public defender for a federal counterfeiting case?
It depends. The court will appoint a Federal Public Defender or a Criminal Justice Act (CJA) panel attorney if you are financially unable to hire counsel. The court assesses your income and assets to determine eligibility.
What are common defenses to counterfeiting charges?
Defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, entrapment, challenging the authenticity of the evidence, and violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation or arrest.
Related Legal Services in Fairfax
If you are facing federal charges for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US, you may also need information on: Federal Criminal Lawyer Fairfax County, Business Lawyer Fairfax County, and Criminal Defense Lawyer Fairfax, VA. For a broader view of our federal practice, visit our Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws are subject to 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.