Fraud charges in Augusta County, Virginia, are prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) and carry penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine) to a felony depending on the amount involved. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Augusta County. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
Fraud Lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia
Fraud in Virginia is broadly defined under Va. Code § 18.2-178, which makes it a crime to obtain money or property by false pretenses or tokens. This statute covers a wide range of deceptive conduct, including credit card fraud, bank fraud, insurance fraud, and identity theft. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property or money obtained. If the value is less than $1,000, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the value is $1,000 or more, it is a felony, carrying a potential sentence of 1 to 20 years in prison. A fraud charge defense lawyer Augusta County can help you handle these complex laws.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience to every case. The firm has handled numerous fraud-related cases in Augusta County and throughout Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
For the full text of the fraud statute, visit: Va. Code § 18.2-178 (Virginia General Assembly — official site).
For information on the Augusta County General District Court, visit: Augusta County General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site).
In Augusta County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek maximum penalties for fraud cases, especially those involving significant financial loss or vulnerable victims. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office places a high priority on prosecuting fraud cases, often requesting enhanced sentences for repeat offenders.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents and evidence related to the alleged fraud.
- Contact a fraud lawyer immediately to begin building your defense.
- Attend all scheduled court hearings at Augusta County General District Court.
- Work with your attorney to explore all possible defense strategies, including challenging the evidence or negotiating a plea.
In Augusta County, fraud carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the value of the property obtained.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fraud (Value under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Fraud (Value $1,000 or more) | Felony | 1 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Permanent criminal record, loss of civil rights |
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%. The firm’s commitment to “Advocacy Without Borders” means that every client receives dedicated, personalized representation. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, has a deep understanding of how the Commonwealth builds its cases, which allows the firm to develop effective defense strategies.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a proven track record of success in Augusta County, with documented case results showing favorable outcomes in all reported instances. The firm’s attorneys have extensive experience handling fraud cases and other white-collar crimes.
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 extensive criminal defense experience in Augusta County, with documented case results showing favorable outcomes in all reported instances. The firm’s case results include 13 documented results in Augusta County: 0 dismissed or not guilty, 13 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary.
Our location in Woodstock is approximately 60 miles from Augusta County General District Court, with access via I-81 and Route 11.
Fraud lawyer near Augusta County.
Serving the communities of Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, Churchville.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
(888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraud Charges in Augusta County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Augusta County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Augusta 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 Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Augusta 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 Augusta County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Augusta County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Augusta County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Augusta County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Augusta 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 Augusta County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Augusta County?
Augusta County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Augusta 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.
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Last verified: April 2026