Arlington County Fraud Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Fraud charges in Arlington County are serious, ranging from misdemeanors to federal felonies under statutes like Va. Code § 18.2-178. A conviction can mean jail, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients in Arlington County courts.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Fraud involves intentionally deceiving someone for personal gain or to cause a loss. In Virginia, common fraud charges include credit card fraud, identity theft, check fraud, and wire fraud. These cases are often complex, involving financial records and digital evidence. A strong defense requires an attorney who understands both the legal elements and the forensic details.
Virginia’s primary fraud statute is Va. Code § 18.2-178 (Obtaining money or property by false pretenses). Prosecutors must prove you made a false representation of a past or existing fact, with intent to defraud, and that someone relied on that falsehood to their detriment. Penalties escalate with the value involved.
- Secure immediate legal counsel before speaking with investigators.
- Your attorney will obtain and scrutinize all discovery, including financial records and digital evidence.
- We file pre-trial motions to challenge the sufficiency of evidence or suppress improperly obtained evidence.
- We negotiate with the Arlington Commonwealth’s Attorney for case dismissal or reduction, often leveraging restitution offers.
- If necessary, we prepare for a jury trial in Arlington County Circuit Court, presenting a defense focused on intent and lack of deception.
In Arlington County, fraud is typically prosecuted as larceny. Petit larceny (under $1,000) is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Grand larceny ($1,000 or more) is a felony, punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny / Fraud under $1,000 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; restitution |
| Grand Larceny / Fraud $1,000+ | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-20 years (or 1-5 for Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record; restitution; difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Identity Theft (§ 18.2-186.3) | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Class 5 Felony | Up to 12 months (misd.) or 1-10 years (felony) | Up to $2,500 | None | Mandatory restitution; federal charges possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex financial cases like fraud. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting financial evidence, a critical skill for any effective fraud charge defense lawyer Arlington County.
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
Our team has achieved documented results in Arlington County courts. For instance, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges like destruction of property with intent under $1,000. In every case, we work to protect your rights and future. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Secondary attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex fraud cases. His multi-state practice and background in financial systems are assets in white-collar defense.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Arlington location is minutes from the Arlington County Courthouse, serving clients in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. As a local fraud lawyer near Arlington County courts, we are accessible for meetings by appointment.
Fraud Defense FAQs in Arlington County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor fraud charge in Arlington County?
A Class 1 misdemeanor fraud charge, like petit larceny under $1,000, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine in Arlington County. Cases are heard at Arlington County General District Court.
Can fraud charges be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement only for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A conviction for fraud, even a misdemeanor, generally cannot be expunged from your public record.
What is the difference between state and federal fraud charges?
State fraud charges, prosecuted in Arlington County courts, typically involve local victims and smaller amounts. Federal fraud charges, prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, often involve interstate commerce, federal agencies, larger sums, or multiple victims, skilled to longer sentences under federal guidelines.
Do I need a white collar crime defense lawyer Arlington County for a first offense?
Yes. Even a first-time fraud charge is serious and can result in jail time and a permanent record. A skilled white collar crime defense lawyer Arlington County can negotiate for alternative resolutions like first-offender programs or reduced charges to protect your future.
How does bail work for a fraud arrest in Arlington?
After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance (no payment) is possible for first-offense misdemeanors. For felony fraud charges, a secured bond requiring a bail bondsman (typically 10% fee) is more common. Your attorney can request a bond hearing in Arlington County General District Court.
For more information, see the Arlington County General District Court website. If you are facing fraud charges, contact a fraud lawyer Arlington County immediately. Explore related legal help: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer, Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, or DUI Lawyer in Arlington County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.