Fredericksburg Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer — Federal Defense
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. If you are under investigation or charged in Fredericksburg, you need a federal criminal defense lawyer with experience in complex financial crimes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Federal Statute on Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations or Securities
The federal crime of counterfeiting U.S. obligations or securities is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 471. 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, stamps, and other government securities. The statute is part of a broader chapter on counterfeiting and forgery, and violations are investigated by the U.S. Secret Service. Prosecution for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in the Fredericksburg area typically occurs in the Alexandria Division of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | U.S. Code via Congress.gov
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the federal counterfeiting statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Federal Counterfeiting Defense Strategy in Fredericksburg
Defending against a charge of counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US requires a detailed understanding of federal procedure and the elements the government must prove. The prosecution must establish not only that you possessed or created a counterfeit item but that you did so with the specific intent to defraud. In the Eastern District of Virginia, which handles cases from Fredericksburg, early intervention during a Secret Service investigation is critical. A strong defense may challenge the authenticity of evidence, the chain of custody, or the lack of fraudulent intent.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: If you are contacted by the U.S. Secret Service or FBI regarding suspected counterfeiting, exercise your right to remain silent and immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer.
- Federal Indictment: A grand jury in the Eastern District of Virginia will issue an indictment if there is probable cause. Your attorney will obtain and review all discovery evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally or to challenge the sufficiency of the government’s case.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will advise on the merits of a plea agreement or prepare for a jury trial in federal court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the face value of the counterfeit items and your criminal history.
Penalties for Counterfeiting U.S. Securities
In the federal system, 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 significant 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. |
| Possessing Counterfeit Securities (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Similar severe penalties as for creation. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Federal Counterfeiting Defense
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 every case. We understand the high stakes of federal charges like counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US. Our approach involves a thorough investigation of the government’s evidence, collaboration with forensic experts when necessary, and aggressive advocacy at every stage, from initial investigation through trial or negotiation.
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 Defense
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex cases. While every case is unique, our strategic approach is designed to protect your rights and seek the best possible resolution. For federal charges, early and skilled legal intervention is essential.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fredericksburg
Our Fairfax location is centrally located to serve clients facing federal charges in Fredericksburg and the surrounding Eastern District of Virginia. We are accessible via I-95 and Route 1.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Serving the Fredericksburg community and surrounding areas.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities Defense
What does “counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US” mean?
It is the federal crime of falsely creating or altering U.S. currency, Treasury bonds, or other government securities with intent to defraud, under 18 U.S.C. § 471.
Who investigates counterfeit currency charges in Fredericksburg?
The U.S. Secret Service is the primary federal agency investigating counterfeit currency and securities. The FBI may also be involved in broader financial fraud cases.
What are the penalties for a federal counterfeiting conviction?
A conviction can result in up to 20 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and asset forfeiture. Sentences are guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Can I get a public defender for a federal counterfeiting charge?
If you cannot afford a private attorney, the court may appoint a Federal Public Defender or a Criminal Justice Act (CJA) panel attorney after determining you are financially eligible.
What should I do if I’m contacted by the Secret Service?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a federal criminal defense lawyer. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.
What is the difference between state and federal counterfeiting charges?
State charges typically involve lower-level forgery. Federal charges apply to U.S. obligations, involve federal agencies, and carry much more severe penalties in the federal prison system.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related charges like DUI in Fredericksburg. For defense against state-level counterfeit currency charges, consult a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures can 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.