Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer in Manassas, VA
Counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States is a serious federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 471, punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison. If you are under investigation or charged in the Eastern District of Virginia, which includes Manassas, immediate legal representation is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Information current as of 2026-02-20. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Federal Law on Counterfeiting U.S. Securities
The primary statute governing the counterfeiting of U.S. obligations or 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. This includes U.S. currency, Treasury bonds, stamps, and other government securities. The statute is part of a broader chapter (Chapter 25) of Title 18 addressing counterfeiting and forgery. Prosecution for these crimes typically falls to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (USAO EDVA) when the activity occurs in or affects the Manassas area. Conviction is a Class C felony.
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- Initial Investigation: Federal agents (Secret Service, FBI) may execute search warrants, conduct interviews, or seize evidence related to alleged counterfeiting operations.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The U.S. Attorney presents evidence to a federal grand jury. If indicted, you will be formally charged.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: You will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Alexandria or Richmond to enter a plea. The court will also determine if you will be released on bond or detained pending trial.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence from the prosecution and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial in U.S. District Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are often severe for counterfeiting offenses.
Penalties for Federal Counterfeiting Charges
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 significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting U.S. Obligations/Securities (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Class C 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) | Class C Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $250,000 | Similar severe penalties for manufacturing tools. |
| Uttering Counterfeit Securities (18 U.S.C. § 472) | Class C Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Charged for passing or attempting to pass counterfeit items. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Federal Defense Experience for Manassas Clients
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings substantial experience to federal criminal defense. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results. We understand the gravity of federal charges like counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US and the specific procedures of the Eastern District of Virginia courts. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney, personally oversees complex federal matters and works with Of Counsel attorney Matthew Greene, who has over 30 years of experience including in federal defense. We provide a case-specific approach for clients in Manassas facing investigation by the Secret Service, FBI, or other federal agencies.
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
Handling Federal Counterfeiting Cases
Our defense strategy for charges involving the counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US begins with a meticulous review of the government’s evidence, often challenging the methods of investigation or the intent to defraud. We explore all options, from pre-indictment negotiations to vigorous trial defense. Matthew Greene, with his decades of experience, provides valuable counsel on federal procedure and sentencing guidelines.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Manassas facing federal charges. We are accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We provide legal representation for federal crimes throughout Northern Virginia.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
FAQs: Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US
What does “counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the United States” mean?
It is the federal crime of falsely creating or altering U.S. government financial instruments—like currency, bonds, or stamps—with intent to defraud, under 18 U.S.C. § 471.
What agency investigates counterfeit currency in Manassas?
The U.S. Secret Service has primary jurisdiction for investigating counterfeit U.S. currency. The FBI may also be involved in broader counterfeiting schemes. If you are contacted by these agents, it is imperative to speak with a counterfeit currency defense lawyer Manassas clients recommend before answering any questions.
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, substantial fines, and asset forfeiture. Federal sentences are served without parole.
Do I need a lawyer for a counterfeiting charge?
Yes. Federal counterfeiting charges are extremely serious. You need a counterfeiting charge lawyer Manassas residents can consult who understands federal court procedures and can negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Can I get bail in a federal counterfeiting case?
It depends. After arrest, a U.S. Magistrate Judge will hold a detention hearing. The court considers flight risk, danger to the community, and the strength of the evidence. A skilled federal defense attorney can argue for your release under specific conditions.
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related matters like business law in Manassas and DUI defense in Manassas.