Fraud in Arlington County is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) and related statutes, carrying penalties from Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to felony depending on the amount involved. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented results in Arlington County, with 22 dismissals and 93 reductions.
Fraud Lawyer Arlington County, Virginia
Fraud in Virginia includes a range of offenses under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses), § 18.2-186 (credit card fraud), and § 18.2-152.3 (computer fraud). These charges can be prosecuted as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the value of the property or money involved. A conviction can result in jail time, fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defend clients against fraud allegations in Arlington County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington 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) and Arlington County General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site).
In Arlington County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek enhanced penalties for fraud cases involving multiple victims or sophisticated schemes. We have observed that early intervention — before charges are formally filed — can sometimes lead to diversion or reduced charges.
- Do not discuss the allegations with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all documents, emails, and financial records related to the matter.
- Contact a fraud charge defense lawyer Arlington County immediately to assess your options.
- Attend all court hearings at Arlington County General District Court or Circuit Court as required.
- Work with your attorney to explore defense strategies, including challenging evidence or negotiating a plea.
- Consider whether a first-offender program or deferred disposition may be available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
In Arlington County, fraud carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to a felony (1-10 years in prison) depending on the amount and type of fraud.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses ($1,000+) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, loss of voting rights, firearm prohibition |
| Credit Card Fraud | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Felony | Up to 12 months (misdemeanor) or 1-10 years (felony) | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Computer Fraud | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Class 5 Felony | Up to 12 months or 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, potential federal charges |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. As a white collar crime defense lawyer Arlington County, the firm has handled numerous fraud-related cases, including computer fraud, credit card fraud, and false pretenses charges. “Advocacy Without Borders” reflects the firm’s commitment to aggressive, client-focused representation.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented results in Arlington County: 22 dismissed or not guilty, 93 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary.
Our location in Arlington is approximately 1 mile from Arlington County General District Court, with access via I-66 and US-29. As a fraud lawyer near Arlington County, we serve the communities of Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our location: 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209 | (703) 589-9250 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraud Charges in Arlington County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Arlington County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Arlington 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 Arlington County General District Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400, Arlington, VA 22201). 115 documented results: 22 dismissed/not guilty, 93 reduced/amended (favorable outcome in all reported instances).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Arlington County, Virginia?
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 Arlington County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Arlington County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Arlington County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Arlington County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Arlington 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 Arlington County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Arlington County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Arlington County?
Arlington County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Arlington 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.
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 conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the united states charges?
Defense strategies for conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the united states 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 conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the united states charges in Virginia?
If facing conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the united states 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.
Learn more about our services: Petit Larceny Lawyer Virginia (state hub). Explore related pages: Petit Larceny Lawyer Falls Church, Petit Larceny Lawyer Fairfax County, Business Compliance Lawyer Arlington County, and Family Law Lawyer Arlington County.
Last verified: April 2026