Fraud charges in Fairfax 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 jail, $2,500 fine) to a felony depending on the amount involved. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County, including 336 dismissals and 143 reductions.
Fraud Lawyer Fairfax in Fairfax County, Virginia
Understanding Fraud Charges Under Virginia Law
Fraud in Virginia is broadly defined under Va. Code § 18.2-178, which criminalizes obtaining 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 prosecution must prove that you knowingly made a false representation with the intent to defraud and that the victim relied on that representation to part with property or money. Penalties escalate based on the value involved: under $200 is a Class 1 misdemeanor; $200 or more is a felony (Class 5 or Class 6). A conviction can result in incarceration, fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licensing.
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 facing fraud allegations in Fairfax County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Official Legal References
What to Expect in Fairfax County General District Court
In Fairfax County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek enhanced penalties for fraud cases involving multiple victims or sophisticated schemes.
The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County often files charges under both § 18.2-178 and related statutes like § 18.2-186 (credit card fraud) to maximize exposure.
We have observed that early intervention — before an indictment is returned — can sometimes lead to charge reduction or diversion programs.
- Do not discuss the allegations with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all documents, emails, and financial records related to the alleged fraud.
- Contact a fraud charge defense lawyer Fairfax immediately to protect your rights.
- Attend all scheduled court appearances at Fairfax County General District Court.
- Work with your attorney to explore defense strategies, including challenging intent or lack of reliance.
- Consider whether a first-offender program or deferred disposition is available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
In Fairfax County, fraud under Va. Code § 18.2-178 carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class 5 felony depending on the amount obtained.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fraud under $200 (Va. Code § 18.2-178) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, probation, criminal record |
| Fraud $200 or more (Va. Code § 18.2-178) | Class 5 Felony | 1–10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, loss of voting rights, firearm prohibition |
| Credit Card Fraud (Va. Code § 18.2-186) | Class 1 Misdemeanor or Class 6 Felony | Up to 12 months (misdemeanor) or 1–5 years (felony) | Up to $2,500 (misdemeanor) or $2,500 (felony) | None | Restitution, probation, criminal record |
Results may vary.
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
Proven Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County: 336 dismissed or not guilty, 143 reduced or amended, and 5 other favorable — a favorable-outcome rate of 97%. These results include fraud-related charges such as obtaining money by false pretenses and credit card fraud. Results may vary. Firm-wide, SRIS has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 1.5 miles from Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030), with access via I-66, I-495, and Route 50.
Fraud lawyer near Fairfax County — we serve clients throughout Northern Virginia.
Serving the communities of Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraud Charges in Fairfax County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fairfax 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 Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030). 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax 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 Fairfax County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fairfax County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax 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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Fairfax 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 — Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals;… Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at Fairfax County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Fairfax County Circuit Court (felony) (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax 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. Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030) 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 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.
Related Legal Resources
- Petit Larceny Lawyer Virginia — Statewide hub for theft-related charges
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- Petit Larceny Lawyer Stafford County — Serving Stafford County
- Licensing Lawyer Fairfax County — Business law services
- Civil Litigation Lawyer Fairfax — Civil litigation support
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site