Fraud Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA

Fraud charges in Virginia Beach carry serious consequences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates on defending individuals accused of fraud-related offenses in Virginia Beach General District Court and Virginia Beach Circuit Court. Whether the allegation involves false pretenses, credit card fraud, or obtaining money by deception, conviction can lead to a felony record, incarceration, and lasting collateral damage. Our firm was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor. He and his Of Counsel bring extensive experience to fraud defense. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.

What Fraud Charges Mean in Virginia Beach

Virginia addresses fraud through statutes such as Va. Code § 18.2-178, which penalizes obtaining money or signature by false pretenses. Depending on the value involved, the offense is graded as grand larceny—a felony—or petit larceny—a Class 1 misdemeanor. The threshold for a felony is determined by the value involved. Other fraud-related charges include credit card theft (§ 18.2-192), credit card fraud (§ 18.2-193), and forgery. Virginia Beach General District Court, located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings, while Virginia Beach Circuit Court adjudicates felony cases. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes the matter. Familiarity with local court practice is critical because the outcome often depends on how evidence is analyzed and how the procedural rules are applied.

A fraud conviction can result in up to 12 months in jail and a fine for a Class 1 misdemeanor, or up to 20 years for a felony. Beyond incarceration, a permanent criminal record can affect employment, professional licenses, and housing. The firm’s Richmond Location serves Virginia Beach clients and appears in these courts regularly. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel understand that each fraud case—whether involving computer fraud under the Virginia Computer Crimes Act (§ 18.2-152.1 et seq.) or a conspiracy charge—demands careful evaluation of intent, the prosecution’s evidence, and the accused’s background.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Fraud Cases

Fraud defense begins with a thorough review of the charging documents, the transactions at issue, and the intent evidence. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Sris appreciates how the Commonwealth builds its case. His Of Counsel team, which includes attorneys with backgrounds in law enforcement, examines whether the alleged misrepresentations were made knowingly, whether the defendant intended to defraud, and whether any procedural missteps by the state can be challenged. Strategy may involve negotiating with the prosecutor for an amendment or dismissal, filing motions to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the defendant’s rights, or, if necessary, preparing for trial.

The firm handles fraud matters at the General District Court level for misdemeanors and can move a felony preliminary hearing to the Circuit Court, where a jury trial is available. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel also work with clients to present mitigation evidence—such as restitution efforts or lack of a prior record—that may influence the outcome. Because each case is fact‑specific, the approach is tailored to the individual rather than following a one‑size‑fits‑all script.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has focused his practice on criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His legislative work includes testifying before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.

The Of Counsel attorneys who assist in criminal matters include individuals who previously served as a Virginia State Trooper or as a Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. Collectively, they bring firsthand insight into how investigations are conducted and how prosecutors approach charging decisions. All attorneys work from the firm’s locations, including the Richmond Location, which serves Virginia Beach. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented 8 favorable outcomes in Virginia Beach across all practice areas. Results may vary. Each case is different.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for a misdemeanor fraud offense in Virginia Beach?

A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach carries up to 12 months in jail and a fine. Misdemeanor fraud cases, such as petit larceny, are prosecuted in Virginia Beach General District Court. The sentence imposed can also include restitution, probation, and community service. Even a misdemeanor conviction results in a permanent criminal record unless expunged under very limited circumstances, so the potential long‑term consequences are significant beyond the immediate penalty.

Can I be charged with fraud if no one lost money?

Yes, a completed financial loss is not always required for a fraud charge. Under Virginia law, the offense may be based on the act of obtaining or attempting to obtain property through false pretenses with the intent to defraud. The prosecution must prove the intent element, but the absence of an actual dollar loss does not automatically defeat the charge. An experienced defense attorney examines the specific facts to challenge the state’s evidence regarding intent and reliance.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against fraud charges?

Defense strategies include challenging the element of intent, disputing the alleged misrepresentation, or raising evidentiary objections. The lawyer may negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction to a non‑criminal disposition or, where the facts warrant, take the case to trial. Because Virginia fraud statutes often hinge on the defendant’s knowledge and the victim’s reliance, a methodical review of the evidence is essential. The attorney also explores whether any constitutional violations occurred during the investigation.

Should I speak to the police if I’m being investigated for fraud?

You should not speak with law enforcement without your lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you, and even innocent explanations may be twisted. Politely state that you wish to remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Then contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Invoking your right to silence is not an admission of guilt; it is a fundamental protection that prevents the prosecution from building its case using your own words.

How long does a fraud case take in Virginia Beach?

The timeline varies by the complexity of the case and the court’s calendar. A misdemeanor trial in General District Court may be set within several weeks of arraignment, while a felony case that proceeds through preliminary hearing, grand jury, and eventually Circuit Court can take many months. Numerous factors—the volume of discovery, motions practice, and the availability of witnesses—influence how quickly the case resolves. An attorney can give a better estimate once the procedural posture is assessed.

Can fraud charges be expunged in Virginia?

Expungement is generally limited to charges that were dismissed, nolle prossed, or resulted in acquittal. Under Virginia law, a person whose charge ended in one of those resolutions may petition the Virginia Beach Circuit Court to expunge the police and court records. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The process requires filing a petition and demonstrating that the continued existence of the record constitutes a manifest injustice. Consultation with a lawyer helps determine eligibility.

For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.