Fraud Lawyer Arlington County, VA
Facing a fraud charge in Arlington County can be deeply unsettling. A conviction carries the possibility of jail time, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and your reputation. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., our experienced team, led by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, defends individuals accused of fraud in Arlington County courts. We work to protect your rights at every stage — from initial investigation through trial or negotiated resolution. If you are under investigation or have been charged, contact us to request a consultation at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Fraud Means in Arlington County
In Virginia, fraud offenses are generally prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2‑178 (obtaining money or property by false pretenses). The statute treats fraud as a form of larceny, so a conviction is punished based on the value of the property or money obtained. When the value is below the statutory threshold, the charge is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, heard in the Arlington County General District Court. A value at or above the statutory threshold elevates the offense to a felony, which is handled in the Arlington County Circuit Court. These thresholds follow the grand and petit larceny statutes (Va. Code §§ 18.2‑95, 18.2‑96), and the penalty for a felony conviction can include a term of imprisonment in the Virginia Department of Corrections.
A fraud charge under Va. Code § 18.2‑178 becomes a felony when the value of the property or money obtained is at or above the statutory threshold; below that amount, it is a misdemeanor.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2‑178 (false pretenses), § 18.2‑95 (grand larceny), § 18.2‑96 (petit larceny). Virginia Code Title 18.2
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
Fraud cases in Arlington County may involve a wide range of conduct: credit card fraud, check fraud, identity theft, false pretenses, computer fraud, and schemes to defraud businesses or government agencies. The Arlington County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases, and the local courts are familiar with both straightforward and complex financial offenses. Because Arlington County is a dense, commuter-oriented urban county adjacent to Washington, D.C., fraud investigations often involve digital evidence, financial records, and witness statements that require careful analysis.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Fraud Cases
Every fraud case is unique, and an effective defense begins with a thorough review of the evidence. Our team examines the charging documents, the manner in which the alleged misrepresentation was made, the value of any property involved, and whether the prosecution can prove the required intent to defraud. Weaknesses in the Commonwealth’s case — such as an honest misunderstanding, a lack of fraudulent intent, or a failure to meet the statutory value threshold — can form the basis for a negotiated dismissal, a reduction to a lesser charge, or a trial defense.
Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor who understands how the Commonwealth builds its case. His Of Counsel team includes an attorney with extensive law enforcement experience, providing practical insight into how investigations are conducted and where procedural missteps may occur. Our representation covers all phases: pretrial motions, plea negotiations, preliminary hearings in the General District Court, and jury trials in the Circuit Court. We also advise clients on the long-term consequences of a fraud conviction and explore avenues such as first-offender programs or deferred dispositions where available under Virginia law. Throughout the process, we work to achieve a favorable outcome while keeping you informed of the options and the risks at each step.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997. He is a former prosecutor who concentrates his practice in criminal defense, including fraud and other property offenses. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented firm-wide results to criminal matters. Results may vary. The Of Counsel team is engaged through Excella and includes attorneys with backgrounds in prosecution and law enforcement. The firm handles fraud cases in Arlington County General District Court and Arlington County Circuit Court, and we represent clients at every stage of the criminal process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against fraud charges?
Defense strategies for fraud in Virginia may include challenging the prosecution’s evidence of intent to defraud, examining the reliability of financial records and witness statements, and determining whether the value of the property or money obtained meets the statutory threshold for a felony. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2‑178 and the related larceny statutes to build the strong $1. In some cases, negotiating a reduction to a lesser charge or a disposition that avoids a permanent conviction is achievable.
What should I do if I am facing fraud charges in Arlington County?
If you are facing fraud charges in Arlington County, contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Avoid discussing the details of your case with anyone other than your lawyer. Preserve any documents, emails, or financial records that may be relevant. The Arlington County General District Court and Circuit Court have specific procedures, and early legal guidance can help you understand the potential consequences and available options before your first court appearance. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor fraud offense in Arlington County?
A misdemeanor fraud charge in Arlington County, such as obtaining money or property by false pretenses where the value is below the statutory threshold, is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to the statutory maximum. The case will be heard in the Arlington County General District Court, located at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400, Arlington, VA 22201. An attorney can explain how the specific facts of your case may affect the potential sentence.
Can felony fraud charges be reduced to a misdemeanor?
In some situations, a felony fraud charge may be negotiated down to a misdemeanor. This often depends on the strength of the evidence, the value of the property involved, the defendant’s prior record, and the willingness of the Commonwealth’s Attorney to amend the charge. A reduction from a felony to a misdemeanor can significantly affect the penalties and the long-term consequences of a conviction. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a fraud charge in Arlington County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor fraud conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that may affect employment, security clearances, professional licenses, and immigration status. The legal process involves procedural deadlines, evidentiary rules, and negotiations with the prosecutor that are difficult to manage without representation. An attorney can advise you on your rights, investigate the case, and advocate on your behalf in the Arlington County courts. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — by appointment only. Call (888) 437‑7747 to schedule. Arlington Location: 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209. Toll‑free (888) 437‑7747.