Fraud Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
A fraud charge in Manassas is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia statutes like Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) and can escalate to federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1341 (mail fraud). Convictions carry severe penalties, including prison, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Fraud Laws and Penalties
Fraud in Virginia includes a range of deceptive acts intended for personal gain or to cause loss to another. Common charges prosecuted in Manassas 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 severity of the charge depends on the value involved and the specific method used. For example, obtaining more than $1,000 by false pretenses is a Class 4 felony. Federal charges may apply if the fraud involves mail, wire, banks, or interstate commerce, prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
For detailed statutes, review the Virginia Code § 18.2-178 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filings are handled through the Manassas General District Court website.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: Contact a fraud lawyer Manassas immediately. We will review the summons, warrant, or any contact from investigators to understand the allegations and potential exposure.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: We obtain all discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney. This includes police reports, financial records, witness statements, and digital evidence. We analyze this material to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Strategic Defense Development: Based on the evidence, we build a defense strategy. This may involve challenging the element of intent, disputing the alleged monetary value, proving a lack of deception, or filing pre-trial motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence.
- Negotiation or Trial: We engage with prosecutors to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges. If a fair plea cannot be reached, we are prepared to advocate for you at a bench or jury trial in Manassas Circuit Court.
- Post-Trial & Collateral Matters: If convicted, we advocate for the most favorable sentence. We also advise on long-term consequences like record expungement (if eligible) and professional licensing issues.
In Manassas, fraud penalties vary by classification: a Class 4 felony carries 2-10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000; a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years (or up to 12 months in jail); a Class 6 felony carries 1-5 years; and a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense (Example) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (>$1,000) | Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, restitution |
| Credit Card Fraud ($200-$1,000) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | Restitution, loss of professional license |
| Identity Theft (First offense, <$1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Civil liability, credit damage |
| Embezzlement (<$1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Restitution, breach of trust |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Fraud Defense
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 team includes attorneys with backgrounds that provide a unique advantage in dissecting financial evidence and challenging white-collar crime allegations. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges.
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
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While every case is unique, our systematic approach to defense aims for the best possible result. For fraud cases, this often involves a detailed forensic review to challenge the prosecution’s evidence on value and intent. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, leveraging his background in accounting and information systems.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Fraud Lawyer Near Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue). We are accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We provide legal representation to individuals in Manassas and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Fraud Charges in Manassas
What should I do if I am under investigation for fraud in Manassas?
Do not speak to investigators without a lawyer. Contact a fraud charge defense lawyer Manassas immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. A lawyer can advise you on your rights, interact with law enforcement on your behalf, and begin building your defense before charges are formally filed.
Can a fraud charge be a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Many fraud charges are felonies based on the value involved. For example, obtaining more than $1,000 by false pretenses is a Class 4 felony. Credit card fraud over $200 is a felony. A conviction can result in state prison time and a permanent felony record.
What is the difference between state and federal fraud charges?
It depends on the nature of the offense. State fraud charges are brought under Virginia law and prosecuted in local courts like Manassas Circuit Court. Federal fraud charges (e.g., mail fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud) are brought by U.S. Attorneys under federal statutes and prosecuted in U.S. District Court. Federal penalties are often more severe and involve different procedures, requiring a white collar crime defense lawyer Manassas with federal experience.
What are common defenses to fraud charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistake of fact, entrapment, insufficient evidence, and challenging the valuation of the alleged loss. An effective defense requires a detailed analysis of financial records and communications to disprove the required criminal intent.
How long does a fraud case take in Manassas?
A misdemeanor fraud case in Manassas General District Court may take 4-8 weeks from arraignment to trial. A felony fraud case in Manassas Circuit Court typically takes 3-9 months or longer, depending on case complexity, evidence volume, and court scheduling. Federal fraud cases often take 6-18 months.