Fraud Lawyer Alexandria, VA
If you are facing a fraud allegation in Alexandria, Virginia, the legal stakes are high. A fraud conviction can mean jail time, a permanent criminal record, and lasting damage to your professional reputation. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to defend individuals accused of obtaining money or property by false pretenses, credit card fraud, identity fraud, and other theft-related charges. The firm regularly represents clients at the Alexandria General District Court and the Alexandria Circuit Court, where fraud cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Alexandria. From a first-offense misdemeanor to a multi-count felony indictment, Mr. Sris and his team evaluate every detail of the prosecution’s case and build a defense aimed at the trusted … Outcome. To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Fraud Charges Mean in Alexandria, Virginia
Virginia law covers several types of fraudulent conduct under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. The most commonly charged fraud offenses include obtaining money by false pretenses (Va. Code § 18.2-178), credit card fraud, and forgery. The classification of a fraud charge—whether misdemeanor or felony—often depends on the value of the property or money obtained. In Virginia, if the amount in question meets the grand larceny threshold, the offense can be prosecuted as a felony, exposing an accused person to a lengthy prison sentence. Cases involving smaller amounts are typically treated as misdemeanors.
In Alexandria, fraud cases are initiated at the Alexandria General District Court on King Street. If the charge is a misdemeanor, the trial takes place in the General District Court. For felony fraud charges, a preliminary hearing is held in the GDC first; if probable cause is found, the case is certified to the Alexandria Circuit Court for trial. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with the procedures in both courts and can advise on what to expect at each stage, from advisement of rights through trial or negotiated resolution.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Fraud Cases
Fraud charges often turn on the state’s ability to prove that the accused acted with intent to defraud. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine the evidence for weaknesses that can undermine that element—gaps in documentation, contradictory witness statements, or a lack of intent to permanently deprive the alleged victim. The defense strategy may involve demonstrating that the accused had a good-faith belief in the truth of the representations made, that no misrepresentation occurred, or that any resulting loss was the product of a dispute rather than criminal deception.
The approach is tailored to the facts. In cases where the evidence of guilt is strong, the team may focus on negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to reduce the charge or seek a deferred disposition, such as first-offender probation under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for eligible property crimes. Throughout the process, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to protect your rights and pursue the most favorable resolution the circumstances allow. Because each case is unique, clients are encouraged to discuss their situation directly with the firm.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal defense in Virginia since 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings insight into how the Commonwealth constructs its cases, which informs his defense strategies for clients accused of fraud and other financial crimes. 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’s Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel. Results may vary. The Of Counsel team includes attorneys who have served as former prosecutors and law enforcement officers, giving them a practical understanding of how fraud investigations are built and where they can be challenged. Together, they represent individuals at every stage of a criminal fraud case in Alexandria, from pre-arrest advice through trial.
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes fraud under Virginia law?
Fraud in Virginia generally involves obtaining money, property, or a signature by intentional deception. Under Va. Code § 18.2-178, a person who obtains another’s property by false pretense with intent to defraud commits a larceny-equivalent offense—the punishment follows the grand-larceny or petit-larceny classification based on the value of the property taken. The prosecution must prove that the accused knowingly made a false representation with the purpose of deceiving the victim and that the victim relied on that representation to part with property.
For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What are the potential penalties for a fraud conviction in Alexandria?
Penalties depend on whether the charge is classified as a misdemeanor or felony and the specific statute at issue. A Class 1 misdemeanor fraud conviction can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the offense is charged as a felony—for example, a Class 5 felony—the possible prison term is 1 to 10 years, while a Class 6 felony carries 1 to 5 years. In addition to incarceration, a conviction can result in restitution obligations, probation, and a permanent criminal record. The court in Alexandria has the discretion to impose a sentence within those statutory ranges after considering the facts of the case.
To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How can a fraud lawyer defend against fraud charges?
A defense strategy may challenge the element of criminal intent, the sufficiency of the evidence, or the lawfulness of the investigation. For instance, if the accused believed in good faith that the statement was true, the specific intent to defraud may be absent. A lawyer may also examine whether the alleged victim relied on the statement in a way that caused a loss. In some cases, a pre-trial motion to suppress evidence can be filed if law enforcement obtained statements or documents in violation of the accused’s rights. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate every avenue to build the strong $1 under the circumstances.
For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am under investigation for fraud in Alexandria?
You should contact a criminal defense attorney before speaking with law enforcement and avoid discussing the matter with anyone except your lawyer. Investigations by the Alexandria Police Department or other agencies can move quickly; statements you make, even to family or friends, may be used against you. An attorney can help you understand the scope of the investigation, determine whether charges are likely, and advise you on how to protect your legal rights. Early legal involvement can affect whether charges are filed and, if they are, what the initial bond and release conditions will be.
To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can fraud charges be expunged in Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement of fraud charges if the case ends in an acquittal, a nolle prosequi, or a dismissal. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, a person who is found not guilty or whose charge is otherwise dismissed may petition the circuit court to expunge the police and court records. Most convictions cannot be expunged, however, Virginia’s 2021 record-sealing framework provides for the sealing of some conviction records under certain conditions. An attorney can review the outcome of your case and explain whether expungement or sealing is available.
For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Also serving: Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer | Prince William County criminal defense lawyer | Falls Church criminal defense lawyer | Virginia criminal defense lawyer
Primary legal sources: Va. Code § 18.2-178 | Alexandria General District Court | Alexandria Circuit Court
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