Fraud Lawyer Fairfax County, VA

Fraud allegations in Fairfax County, Virginia, can lead to serious criminal consequences, including jail time, substantial fines, and a lasting criminal record. Whether the charge involves identity theft, credit card fraud, obtaining money by false pretenses, or other deceptive schemes, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these offenses actively in both the Fairfax County General District Court and the Fairfax County Circuit Court, depending on the severity of the charge. A conviction can affect your employment, professional licensing, housing, and immigration status. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring extensive combined legal experience to defend individuals facing fraud-related charges throughout Fairfax County, including Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. To request a consultation about your fraud matter, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Fraud Allegations Mean in Fairfax County, Virginia

In Virginia, fraud offenses are generally prosecuted under the theory of larceny by false pretenses, codified at Va. Code § 18.2-178, or under specific fraud statutes such as credit card fraud (§ 18.2-192 et seq.) and computer fraud (§ 18.2-152.3). The Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused knowingly made a false statement of fact with intent to defraud and that the victim relied on that false statement to part with money or property. The stakes depend on the value of the property involved and the nature of the alleged scheme.

Misdemeanor fraud cases are heard in the Fairfax County General District Court, located at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030. Felony fraud charges begin with a preliminary hearing in General District Court and then proceed to the Fairfax County Circuit Court for trial or resolution. Defendants who are first‑time offenders and charged with certain property crimes may be eligible for deferred disposition under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2, which can lead to dismissal of the charge upon successful completion of court‑imposed conditions. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether you qualify for such a program and work to minimize the impact of an arrest on your future.

Because fraud cases often involve complex financial records, digital evidence, and witness testimony, the defense requires a careful review of the prosecution’s evidence. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team examine whether the alleged misrepresentation was material, whether the defendant intended to defraud, and whether the victim’s reliance was reasonable. They also assess whether law enforcement followed proper procedures during the investigation and any search or seizure of evidence. The goal is always to protect the client’s rights and pursue the strong outcome, whether that means negotiation for a reduced charge, diversion, or a trial.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Fraud Cases in Fairfax County

When you engage Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a fraud charge, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin with a thorough case evaluation. They listen to your account, gather all relevant documents, and analyze the Commonwealth’s evidence. Because the firm’s team includes attorneys with backgrounds in both prosecution and law enforcement, they understand how investigators and prosecutors build fraud cases. This insight informs every stage of the process—from identifying weaknesses in the state’s evidence to developing a defense strategy that addresses the specific factual and legal issues

If the case involves credit card fraud, computer fraud, identity theft, or other specialized fraud schemes, the team consults with forensic experts when necessary to challenge technical evidence. Plea bargaining is a recognized part of Virginia criminal practice under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia, and Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel often engage with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek amended charges, diversion programs, or reduced sentences. If a fair resolution cannot be reached, they are prepared to take the case to trial in either the General District Court or the Circuit Court, depending on the jurisdiction. Throughout the process, the client is kept informed and decisions are made collaboratively. To request a consultation regarding your fraud matter, call (888) 437-7747.

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 practiced criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), reflecting his deep engagement with Virginia law. His Of Counsel team includes attorneys who bring additional perspectives from prior careers in prosecution and law enforcement, enabling a comprehensive approach to fraud defense. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered fraud under Virginia law?

Fraud in Virginia generally involves obtaining money, property, or a signature by false pretenses with the intent to defraud. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-178, which treats the offense as larceny. Other fraud‑related charges include credit card theft (§ 18.2-192), credit card fraud (§ 18.2-193), computer fraud (§ 18.2-152.3), and forgery. The specific charge depends on the alleged conduct, the value involved, and the identity of the victim. A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, incarceration, fines, and restitution.

Is fraud a felony or misdemeanor in Fairfax County?

The classification depends on the value of the property or money obtained and the nature of the offense. If the value is under $1,000, the charge is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the value is $1,000 or more, or if the fraud involves certain aggravating factors such as firearm use or multiple victims, it may be charged as a felony, carrying a prison sentence of 1 to 20 years. A Fairfax County fraud lawyer can assess the specific allegations and explain the potential exposure you face.

Do I need a lawyer for a fraud charge in Fairfax County?

Yes, because even a misdemeanor fraud conviction can have long‑term consequences for employment, professional licenses, and immigration status. Fraud cases often involve complex financial evidence, witness credibility issues, and legal defenses that require careful analysis. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented case results across multiple practice areas since 1997. Results may vary. A lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can evaluate your case, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court.

What are the potential defenses to fraud charges?

Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, absence of a false pretense, or that the alleged victim did not rely on any misrepresentation. Other strategies may challenge the sufficiency of the evidence, question the credibility of witnesses, or demonstrate that the defendant acted in good faith. Because each case is fact‑specific, an experienced attorney can identify the most viable defense after reviewing the Commonwealth’s evidence. To discuss possible defenses in your case, call (888) 437-7747.

How does the court process work for fraud cases in Fairfax County?

Misdemeanor fraud charges are initiated by warrant or summons and are tried in the Fairfax County General District Court. Felony charges begin with an arrest and a preliminary hearing in the same court, where a judge determines whether probable cause exists to send the case to the Fairfax County Circuit Court. In Circuit Court, the defendant may be indicted by a grand jury and then enter a plea. If the case is not resolved through a plea agreement, it proceeds to trial. The timeline varies depending on court scheduling, the complexity of the evidence, and motions filed by either side.

Can a fraud conviction be expunged in Virginia?

Virginia law permits expungement only for charges that result in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal. A conviction, whether misdemeanor or felony, generally cannot be expunged under current Virginia law. If your fraud charge is dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may petition the Fairfax County Circuit Court to expunge the police and court records under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2. An attorney can advise you on your eligibility for expungement and guide you through the petition process.

For related services in surrounding jurisdictions, see our Criminal Defense Lawyer in Prince William County, Stafford County Criminal Defense, Fauquier County Criminal Lawyer, Loudoun County Criminal Defense, and Arlington County Criminal Attorney.

Authoritative sources: Virginia Code Title 18.2 – Crimes and Offenses · Fairfax County Circuit Court · SCC Business Entity Filings

Last reviewed: July 2026

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