Fraud charges in Loudoun County are prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) and can result in felony penalties including up to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 153 documented results in Loudoun County, with a 88% favorable outcome rate. A Fraud Lawyer Loudoun County can help you handle these serious charges.
Fraud Lawyer Loudoun County, Virginia
Fraud in Virginia is broadly defined under Va. Code § 18.2-178 as obtaining money or property by false pretenses with intent to defraud. The statute covers schemes where you knowingly make false representations to induce another to part with property. Penalties escalate based on the value involved: theft of $1,000 or more constitutes grand larceny, a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Lesser amounts may be charged as petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Additional fraud-related offenses include credit card fraud under Va. Code § 18.2-192, computer fraud under Va. Code § 18.2-152.3, and identity theft under Va. Code § 18.2-186.3. A conviction can also trigger federal charges if interstate commerce or banking systems are involved. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | Loudoun County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
For the full text of Virginia’s fraud statutes, see Va. Code § 18.2-178 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on court procedures in Loudoun County, visit Loudoun County General District Court (vacourts.gov).
In Loudoun County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek enhanced penalties for fraud cases involving elderly victims or amounts exceeding $5,000. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney often files multiple counts under different statutes to increase use during plea negotiations.
- Request a preliminary hearing within 21 days of arrest to test the prosecution’s evidence.
- File a motion to suppress any statements obtained without Miranda warnings.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction to a misdemeanor if the amount is borderline.
- Explore first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for eligible defendants.
- Prepare for trial in Loudoun County Circuit Court if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- Consider expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 if charges are dismissed or result in a nolle prosequi.
In Loudoun County, fraud charges carry penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to a Class 5 felony (1-10 years) or Class 6 felony (1-5 years), depending on the value and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | License suspension | Loss of voting rights, firearm prohibition |
| Credit Card Fraud | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | License suspension | Restitution to victim |
| Computer Fraud | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | License suspension | Forfeiture of computer equipment |
Results may vary.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 153 documented results in Loudoun County: 54 dismissed or not guilty, 80 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate of 88%. Results may vary. These include 42 criminal defense cases with 35 dismissals and 5 reductions. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our location in Ashburn is approximately 8 miles from Loudoun County General District Court (18 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176), with access via VA-7 and the Dulles Greenway. If you need a fraud lawyer near Loudoun County, we are here to help. Serving the communities of Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, South Riding, Brambleton, Aldie, Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, and Round Hill. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Ashburn/Loudoun
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Room 403, Ashburn, VA 20147
Phone: (571) 279-0110 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraud Charges in Loudoun County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Loudoun County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Loudoun County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Loudoun County General District Court (18 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176). 42 documented results: 35 dismissed/not guilty, 5 reduced/amended, 2 other favorable (favorable outcome in all reported instances).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Loudoun County, Virginia?
Yes. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Loudoun County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 42 documented results: 35 dismissed/not guilty, 5 reduced/amended, 2 other favorable (favorable outcome in all reported instances).
How does bail work in Loudoun County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Loudoun County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Loudoun County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Loudoun County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Loudoun County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Loudoun County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine; Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months, $1,000; Class 5 felony: 1-10 years (or up to 12 months…. Early legal representation is critical — Loudoun County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Loudoun County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals;… Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at Loudoun County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Loudoun County Circuit Court (felony) (18 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Loudoun County?
Loudoun County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Loudoun County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Loudoun County General District Court (18 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176) is the GDC location.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against computer fraud and abuse act violations charges?
Defense strategies for computer fraud and abuse act violations in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing computer fraud and abuse act violations charges in Virginia?
If facing computer fraud and abuse act violations charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against credit card fraud charges?
Defense strategies for credit card fraud in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) to build the strongest possible defense.
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Last verified: April 2026. This page was updated to reflect current Virginia law and Loudoun County court procedures.