Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US Lawyer Powhatan County — What Is Your Best Defense?
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US lawyer Powhatan County: Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carry up to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ firm-wide case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Former prosecutor Mr. Sris leads your defense. Consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Powhatan County General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code)
Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the United States is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 471. This federal statute makes it a crime to falsely make, forge, or counterfeit any obligation or security of the United States with the intent to defraud. Obligations include currency, treasury notes, and federal reserve notes. Securities include bonds, certificates of indebtedness, and other financial instruments issued by the U.S. government. The law applies to any person who knowingly and willfully engages in the creation or alteration of these instruments. A conviction under this statute is a felony offense with severe penalties.
For the full text of the statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 471 (official U.S. Code). For federal court procedures in the Eastern District of Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
- Preserve all records and documents related to the alleged counterfeiting activity. Your attorney needs to review the evidence.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Federal cases move quickly under the Speedy Trial Act.
- Your attorney will file a motion to suppress any evidence obtained through an illegal search or seizure.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a potential plea agreement or diversion program if applicable.
- Prepare for trial if no acceptable resolution is reached. Federal trials require a thorough defense strategy.
In Powhatan County, counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | Forfeiture of assets, supervised release, criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating his deep understanding of complex legal matters. The firm’s team includes former prosecutors and experienced defense attorneys who understand federal court procedures.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ firm-wide case results across all practice areas with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. These results span Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Each case is unique, and prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Powhatan County courts (3834 Old Buckingham Rd). The office is accessible via Route 522, Route 711, and Route 60. We serve the Powhatan community and surrounding areas.
Looking for a counterfeiting charge lawyer Powhatan County? Our firm provides strong defense for federal counterfeiting charges near Powhatan County.
Neighborhoods served: Powhatan.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for counterfeiting of obligations or securities of the US in Powhatan County?
Yes, a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 471 carries up to 20 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000. Additional penalties include asset forfeiture and supervised release.
Can counterfeiting charges be reduced in Powhatan County?
It depends. A skilled federal criminal defense lawyer may negotiate a plea agreement for a lesser charge or seek a diversion program. The U.S. Attorney’s Office considers the evidence and your criminal history.
Do I need a counterfeiting charge lawyer Powhatan County?
Yes. Federal counterfeiting charges are serious felonies with mandatory minimum sentences. A lawyer can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors to seek the best possible outcome.
How does the federal court process work in Powhatan County?
Federal cases begin with an arrest or grand jury indictment. The case proceeds to initial appearance, detention hearing, arraignment, discovery, motions, and trial. The Speedy Trial Act requires trial within 70 days of indictment.
What is the difference between state and federal counterfeiting charges?
Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 471 apply to counterfeiting U.S. currency and securities. State charges may apply to other forms of forgery. Federal penalties are significantly more severe than state penalties.