Securities Fraud Lawyer Chesapeake, Virginia — What Are Your Legal Options?
If you are under investigation for securities fraud in Chesapeake, a Securities Fraud lawyer Chesapeake from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help. Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1348 carry up to 25 years in prison. Our firm has 4,739+ documented results firm-wide. Contact us 24/7.
Understanding Securities Fraud Under Federal Law
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 1348 (official U.S. Code)
Securities fraud is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 1348, which prohibits schemes to defraud investors or obtain money through false pretenses in connection with securities transactions. The statute covers insider trading, Ponzi schemes, accounting fraud, and market manipulation. A conviction can result in up to 25 years in federal prison and substantial fines. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia prosecutes these cases in Chesapeake. An investment fraud defense lawyer Chesapeake from our firm understands the federal sentencing guidelines and can build a defense strategy case-specific to your case.
Key Legal Resources
Review the official federal statute at 18 U.S.C. § 1348 (Cornell LII) and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC.gov) for enforcement guidelines. An SEC violation lawyer Chesapeake can explain how SEC investigations typically proceed.
Insider Knowledge: How Federal Securities Fraud Cases Proceed in Chesapeake
Federal securities fraud cases in Chesapeake typically begin with a grand jury subpoena or a target letter from the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The investigation may involve FBI and SEC agents. You have the right to counsel before speaking with investigators.
- Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Preserve all documents and electronic records related to the investigation.
- Contact a Securities Fraud lawyer Chesapeake immediately upon receiving a subpoena or target letter.
- Your attorney will negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to explore pre-indictment resolution options.
- If indicted, your lawyer will file pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Prepare for trial or negotiate a plea agreement based on the strength of the evidence.
Penalties for Securities Fraud
In Chesapeake, securities fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1348 carries up to 25 years in federal prison and fines up to $5 million for individuals.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Securities Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1348) | Federal Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000,000 | Restitution, forfeiture, supervised release, SEC civil penalties |
| Insider Trading (15 U.S.C. § 78j(b)) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $5,000,000 | SEC disgorgement, trading bans, civil penalties |
| Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Restitution, forfeiture, supervised release |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Securities Fraud Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm has handled 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating his ability to effect change at the highest levels of law. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the government builds its cases.
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 4,739+ documented results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. While specific Chesapeake securities fraud results are not listed, our federal criminal defense team has handled complex financial cases in the Eastern District of Virginia.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Chesapeake Location
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive). We are accessible via I-64, I-464, and I-664. Serving Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
Securities fraud lawyer near Chesapeake — 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Securities Fraud in Chesapeake
What is the difference between SEC civil charges and criminal securities fraud?
Yes. The SEC brings civil enforcement actions seeking fines, disgorgement, and trading bans. Criminal securities fraud is prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and can result in prison time. Both can arise from the same conduct.
Can I be charged with securities fraud if I did not intend to defraud anyone?
It depends. Criminal securities fraud requires proof of intent to defraud. However, reckless conduct or willful blindness can satisfy this element. A Securities Fraud lawyer Chesapeake can evaluate whether the government can prove intent in your case.
How long does a federal securities fraud investigation take in Chesapeake?
Investigations typically last 6 to 18 months before an indictment. The Speedy Trial Act requires trial within 70 days of indictment, but excludable delays can extend this timeline significantly.
What should I do if the SEC sends me a subpoena?
Contact an SEC violation lawyer Chesapeake immediately. Do not destroy documents. Do not speak to SEC staff without your lawyer present. Respond to the subpoena through counsel to avoid additional charges.
Can I get probation for a first-time securities fraud offense?
It depends. First-time offenders may qualify for probation under the federal sentencing guidelines if the loss amount is low and there are no aggravating factors. However, mandatory minimum sentences apply to some securities fraud charges.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of February 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Virginia Securities Fraud Lawyer | Henrico Securities Fraud Lawyer | Chesterfield Securities Fraud Lawyer | DUI Lawyer Chesapeake | Family Lawyer Chesapeake