Arlington County Fraud Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Fraud charges in Arlington County are serious white collar crimes prosecuted under Virginia law, carrying severe penalties including prison time and fines. A fraud lawyer Arlington County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can build a defense based on intent, evidence, and procedural errors. Our firm has documented results defending clients in Arlington County General District and Circuit Courts.
Virginia Fraud Laws and Penalties
Fraud includes a range of deceptive acts intended for personal or financial gain. In Virginia, fraud charges are primarily codified under Title 18.2, Chapter 6 of the Virginia Code, covering offenses from credit card fraud and identity theft to embezzlement and securities fraud. The classification and penalties depend on the value involved and the specific statute violated.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a foundational understanding of how the Commonwealth constructs fraud cases, which is critical for an effective defense strategy.
Official Legal Resources
- Virginia Code Title 18.2, Chapter 6 (Fraud) – Official state statutes.
- Arlington County General District Court – Official court website for case information.
Local Court Process for Fraud Charges in Arlington
Fraud cases in Arlington County typically begin with an investigation by law enforcement or a regulatory agency. Misdemeanor fraud charges are heard in Arlington County General District Court, while felony fraud charges start with a preliminary hearing there before potentially moving to Arlington County Circuit Court for a jury trial. The local procedural fact is that the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County aggressively prosecutes fraud cases, often relying on financial records and digital evidence.
- Initial Appearance & Bond Hearing: After arrest or summons, you will appear in General District Court where bond conditions are set.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): For felony fraud, the Commonwealth must show probable cause at a hearing in General District Court.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence, review financial documents, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors are filed.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your defense team will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for a bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, advocacy focuses on mitigating penalties; appeals are filed in the Court of Appeals of Virginia.
Potential Penalties for Fraud Convictions
In Arlington County, fraud penalties vary from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to a Class 5 felony (1-10 years prison), heavily dependent on the value and type of fraud.
| Offense Type | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Card Fraud (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Restitution, criminal record |
| Identity Theft (Va. Code § 18.2-186.3) | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (felony) | Up to $2,500+ | Restitution, permanent record |
| Embezzlement (over $1,000) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | Restitution, loss of professional licenses |
| Securities Fraud | Class 5 Felony or higher | 1-10 years+ | Substantial fines | Civil penalties, disgorgement |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Fraud Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex white collar crime defense. Our founder, a former prosecutor, understands the tactics used by the Commonwealth. For Virginia family law matters, he personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a deep engagement with state law. Our collaborative approach ensures every client benefits from multiple perspectives.
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
Documented Case Results
In Arlington County, our firm has a record of achieving favorable outcomes in criminal cases. We have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges such as destruction of property and fare evasion in Arlington County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex financial fraud cases. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia code offer a unique advantage.
Contact Our Arlington County Fraud Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. We provide 24/7 phone consultations—meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for credit card fraud in Arlington County?
It depends on the value. Fraud under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Over $1,000 can be a felony (grand larceny), carrying 1-20 years in prison. Restitution is always ordered.
Can I go to jail for a first-time fraud offense in Virginia?
Yes. Even first-time offenders face possible jail time for misdemeanor and felony fraud. The court considers the amount, victim impact, and your intent. An experienced fraud lawyer Arlington County can argue for alternatives like probation.
What’s the difference between fraud and embezzlement?
Embezzlement is a specific type of fraud where someone lawfully entrusted with property or funds illegally appropriates them. Both are theft crimes, but embezzlement involves a breach of trust. Defenses differ, making precise charge analysis vital.
How long does a fraud case take in Arlington County?
A misdemeanor fraud case in General District Court may take 4-8 weeks to trial. A felony case, moving from preliminary hearing to Circuit Court, can take 3-9 months or longer, depending on evidence complexity and court scheduling.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for fraud?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Contact a fraud charge defense lawyer Arlington County immediately. We can communicate on your behalf, protect your rights, and begin building a defense before charges are even filed.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub, or learn about related issues like DUI defense in Arlington. We also serve neighboring areas like Alexandria.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your fraud case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a consultation by appointment.