Fraud Lawyer Fairfax, VA

Q: What is the possible punishment for a fraud conviction under Va. Code § 18.2‑178?

Punishment depends on the value of the property obtained. If the value is $1,000 or more, the offense is grand larceny and treated as a felony. A felony conviction can mean imprisonment in the Virginia Department of Corrections for one to twenty years, or, in some cases, up to twelve months in jail at the jury’s discretion. For values under $1,000, the charge is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries a maximum of twelve months in jail and a fine. The court may also order restitution. Because these ranges are broad, having a lawyer who knows how the local courts handle fraud cases is important.

Facing an allegation of fraud in Fairfax, Virginia, is a serious matter that can affect your freedom, your livelihood, and your future. A charge under Va. Code § 18.2‑178—obtaining money or property by false pretenses—is treated as larceny, which means the potential consequences depend on the value involved. For amounts of $1,000 or more, the offense is grand larceny, a felony that carries the possibility of imprisonment in the Virginia Department of Corrections, substantial fines, and a permanent felony record. For amounts below that threshold, the charge is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to twelve months in jail and a fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has represented individuals in Fairfax County General District Court, Fairfax County Circuit Court, and Fairfax City General District Court for decades. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team bring extensive combined legal experience to fraud defense. To request a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Fraud Means in Fairfax, Virginia

Fraud prosecutions in Northern Virginia are taken seriously by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. In both Fairfax County and the City of Fairfax, charges under Va. Code § 18.2‑178 require the prosecution to prove that a person made a false representation of a present or past fact, that the representation was made with intent to defraud, and that the victim relied on it to part with money or property. The line between a broken business promise and a criminal false pretense is often where disputes arise. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience challenging the element of intent, which is often the weakest point in the Commonwealth’s case.

The venue for a fraud charge is determined by whether the alleged value pushes the case into felony territory. Misdemeanor fraud cases are heard in the General District Court—Fairfax County General District Court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, or Fairfax City General District Court at 10455 Armstrong Street, Room 101, Fairfax. Felony fraud charges are handled in the Circuit Court, beginning with a preliminary hearing in the General District Court. In the Circuit Court, defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial. Because a fraud conviction can create a permanent criminal record that affects employment, security clearances, and professional licenses, early involvement of an experienced fraud lawyer in Fairfax, VA is important.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Fraud Cases

Defending a fraud charge in Fairfax requires a methodical review of the evidence the Commonwealth intends to use. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team look at the transaction history, the communications between the parties, and whether any written agreements exist. In many cases, what the Commonwealth characterizes as fraud is actually a contract dispute or a misunderstanding that does not meet the criminal standard. The defense may involve demonstrating that the accused did not make a knowing false representation, that the alleged victim did not rely on it, or that the amount of loss is overstated.

Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor gives him insight into how the Commonwealth builds its case and where procedural or evidentiary weaknesses may exist. His Of Counsel team includes attorneys with prior law enforcement and prosecution experience, which is particularly useful when the charge involves financial records, multiple witnesses, or complex paper trails. The goal is always to work toward the most favorable resolution possible, whether that is a dismissal, a reduction of the charge to a lesser offense, or an acquittal at trial. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal defense since 1997. He is a former prosecutor, giving him a dual perspective on the criminal justice system. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and has handled matters in Fairfax County and City courts for much of his career. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to fraud defense. The Of Counsel team includes attorneys who have served as prosecutors and law enforcement officers, contributing to a thorough understanding of investigation techniques and courtroom strategy. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients from its Fairfax Location at 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032. All consultations are by appointment. Call (888) 437‑7747 to schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if accused of fraud in Fairfax, Virginia?

If you are accused of fraud in Fairfax, do not discuss the matter with anyone except an attorney. Law enforcement and Commonwealth Attorney investigators may attempt to interview you. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact an experienced fraud lawyer in Fairfax, VA as soon as possible to begin evaluating the evidence and protecting your rights. Early legal involvement can affect whether charges are filed and, if they are, what defenses are available.

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

Yes, having a lawyer is essential for a fraud charge in any Fairfax court. Even a misdemeanor fraud conviction under Va. Code § 18.2‑178 can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. The stakes are higher if the charge is a felony. An attorney who practices regularly in the Fairfax County General District Court and Fairfax County Circuit Court, or the corresponding Fairfax City courts, understands the local procedures, the judges, and the prosecutors. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Appears in these courts and can provide representation.

What is the possible punishment for a fraud conviction under Va. Code § 18.2‑178?

Punishment depends on the value of the property obtained. If the value is $1,000 or more, the offense is grand larceny and treated as a felony. A felony conviction can mean imprisonment in the Virginia Department of Corrections for one to twenty years, or, in some cases, up to twelve months in jail at the jury’s discretion. For values under $1,000, the charge is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries a maximum of twelve months in jail and a fine. The court may also order restitution. Because these ranges are broad, having a lawyer who knows how the local courts handle fraud cases is important.

Can a fraud charge be dismissed in Fairfax?

Yes, fraud charges can be dismissed or reduced, but it depends on the facts of the case. If the evidence does not support the required element of intent to defraud, or if the alleged victim’s reliance is questionable, the Commonwealth may be unable to prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. In some situations, the defense may be able to negotiate an amendment to a lesser offense or to secure a dismissal through pretrial motions. Each case is different. An attorney can evaluate whether the evidence supports a challenge.

How does the court process work for a fraud felony in Fairfax County Circuit Court?

A fraud felony case typically begins in the Fairfax County General District Court with a preliminary hearing. At that hearing, the judge decides whether there is probable cause to send the case to the grand jury. If probable cause is found, the case moves to the Fairfax County Circuit Court, where the defendant will be arraigned, a trial date set, and pretrial motions may be filed. The defendant has a right to a jury trial in the Circuit Court. The timeline depends on the court’s calendar and the complexity of the case.

What makes Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Different in handling fraud cases in Northern Virginia?

The firm’s combination of a former prosecutor as its founder and a team with law enforcement and prior prosecution experience offers a distinct perspective. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel understand both sides of the courtroom. They have decades of combined legal practice in Virginia, including extensive time in Fairfax County and City courts. That experience, combined with a review of financial and documentary evidence, allows them to examine whether the Commonwealth can meet its burden. To discuss your case, call (888) 437‑7747.

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Virginia Fraud Statute:
Va. Code § 18.2‑178 |
Virginia Courts:
Virginia Judicial System

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. | Fairfax Location: 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032 | (888) 437‑7747

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.