In Virginia Beach, federal charges for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carry up to 20 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for clients facing these serious allegations. Our firm has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Consultation by appointment.
Understanding Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US involves the unauthorized creation, alteration, or possession of counterfeit federal currency, bonds, or securities. Under 18 U.S.C. § 471, it is a federal crime to falsely make, forge, or counterfeit any obligation or security of the United States with intent to defraud. This includes counterfeit currency, Treasury bonds, and federal reserve notes. The statute covers both the act of counterfeiting and the possession of counterfeit items with fraudulent intent. Federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia handle these cases aggressively.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code)
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US is distinct from other federal financial crimes. While bank fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1344) involves schemes to defraud financial institutions, counterfeiting specifically targets the integrity of U.S. currency and securities. The government must prove you acted with intent to defraud, making this a specific intent crime that requires careful defense strategy.
Relevant Legal Resources
- 18 U.S.C. § 471 — Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US (official U.S. Code)
- U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (official court website)
Insider Perspective on Federal Counterfeiting Cases in Virginia Beach
Federal counterfeiting cases in Virginia Beach are investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. The government often uses forensic analysis of currency and financial records to build its case.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately upon learning of an investigation or arrest.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your lawyer present — anything you say can be used against you.
- Preserve all evidence and documents your lawyer requests for review.
- Attend all court hearings as scheduled; failure to appear can result in additional charges.
- Work with your lawyer to evaluate potential defenses, including lack of intent to defraud.
In Virginia Beach, Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US (18 U.S.C. § 471) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | Federal supervised release up to 3 years; forfeiture of counterfeit items; permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal 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+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally leads complex federal criminal defense matters, including Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US cases. His background as a former prosecutor provides unique insight into federal prosecution strategies. The firm’s tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive, client-focused representation.
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
No verifiable case result is available for this jurisdiction/topic. Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Virginia Beach Federal Criminal Defense Services
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway). We are accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44 (VA Beach Expressway).
Looking for a federal criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach? Our firm represents clients throughout the Virginia Beach area.
We serve the communities of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Counterfeiting Charges
What is the penalty for Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US in Virginia Beach?
Yes, the maximum penalty is 20 years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine under 18 U.S.C. § 471.
Can I be charged for possessing counterfeit currency without making it?
Yes, possession of counterfeit obligations or securities with intent to defraud is also a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 472.
What defenses are available for counterfeiting charges?
It depends. Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, lack of knowledge that the items were counterfeit, or government misconduct during the investigation.
How long do federal counterfeiting cases take in Virginia Beach?
It depends. Under the Speedy Trial Act, trial must occur within 70 days of indictment, but excludable delays can extend the timeline to 6-18 months for typical cases.
Do I need a federal criminal defense lawyer for counterfeiting charges?
Yes, federal counterfeiting charges carry severe penalties and require a lawyer experienced in federal court. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia prosecutes these cases aggressively.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.