Fraud Lawyer Henrico County — Defending Against State & Federal Charges
Fraud charges in Henrico County are serious, prosecuted under Virginia statutes like Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) or federal law. A conviction can mean years in prison, fines, and a permanent criminal record. As a fraud lawyer Henrico County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients in Henrico County General District and Circuit Courts. We provide 24/7 consultations.
Virginia Fraud Laws and Penalties
Virginia law defines multiple fraud offenses, primarily under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. These are prosecuted by the Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. Common charges include obtaining money by false pretenses (Va. Code § 18.2-178), credit card fraud (Va. Code § 18.2-195), identity theft (Va. Code § 18.2-186.3), and embezzlement (Va. Code § 18.2-111). The classification and penalties depend on the value involved and the specific method used.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-178 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Henrico County General District Court website
Defending Fraud Charges in Henrico County Courts
Fraud cases in Henrico County begin at the General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings for felonies. Felony trials proceed to Henrico County Circuit Court. Prosecutors must prove you acted with intent to defraud. A common defense is lack of intent—showing a misunderstanding or a failed business deal, not criminal deception. Early intervention by a fraud charge defense lawyer Henrico County is critical to challenge the evidence before formal charges are filed.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss the allegations and your side of the story with your attorney immediately.
- Evidence Review: Your lawyer will subpoena and analyze all financial documents, emails, and witness statements.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiation or Trial: Work toward a favorable plea agreement or prepare for a jury trial in Circuit Court if necessary.
Potential Penalties for Fraud Convictions
In Henrico County, fraud penalties range from misdemeanors with jail time to felonies carrying years in prison, depending on the amount and type of fraud.
| Offense (Virginia) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (< $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Restitution, criminal record |
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (≥ $1,000) | Class 4, 5, or 6 Felony | 1-10 years (varies) | Up to $100,000 | Restitution, felony record, loss of professional licenses |
| Credit Card Fraud | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Class 6 Felony | Up to 5 years | Varies | Restitution, fraud flag on credit |
| Identity Theft | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Class 6 Felony | Up to 5 years | Varies | Restitution, long-term credit damage |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Fraud Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us insight into how these cases are built. We have over 120 years of combined legal experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide. Our approach to fraud defense involves meticulous review of financial transactions and witness accounts to protect your rights.
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
Case Results in Henrico County
Our firm has achieved documented results for clients facing serious charges in Henrico County. For example, we have secured dismissals for charges like reckless driving in excess of 80 mph and passing a school bus. While every case is unique, these outcomes demonstrate our active work in the Henrico County court system.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Fraud Defense Serving Henrico County
Our Richmond location serves clients throughout Henrico County, including Glen Allen, Short Pump, and Innsbrook. We are familiar with the procedures at the Henrico County General District Court on East Parham Road. If you need a fraud lawyer near Henrico County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations and in-person meetings by appointment.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor fraud charge in Henrico County?
A Class 1 misdemeanor fraud charge, such as obtaining less than $1,000 by false pretenses, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-178. Cases are heard at Henrico County General District Court.
Can I go to prison for a fraud charge in Virginia?
Yes. Fraud involving $1,000 or more is a felony in Virginia. Penalties range from 1 to 10 years in prison, depending on the specific felony class. A white collar crime defense lawyer Henrico County can work to challenge the evidence or seek alternative sentencing.
What’s the difference between state and federal fraud charges?
State fraud charges are prosecuted under Virginia law in county courts. Federal fraud (e.g., wire fraud, bank fraud) involves interstate commerce or federal agencies and is prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in federal court, often with longer sentences.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for fraud?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Contact a fraud lawyer Henrico County immediately. Your lawyer can communicate on your behalf and begin building a defense before charges are formally filed.
What defenses are available against fraud charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, and entrapment. A fraud charge defense lawyer Henrico County will analyze the specifics of your case to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Related Pages: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer | Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Henrico County DUI Lawyer
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.