Fraud Lawyer Arlington County, VA

Fraud charges in Arlington County, Virginia carry serious consequences, ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, to a felony conviction with years of imprisonment. The specific penalty depends on the value involved and the statute under which the case is brought—often Va. Code § 18.2‑178 (obtaining money by false pretenses), credit card fraud, or identity fraud. Cases are heard at the Arlington County General District Court for misdemeanors and the Arlington County Circuit Court for felonies. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team have handled criminal fraud matters across Virginia since 1997. We understand how the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases and the local court procedures that shape every stage. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Fraud Charges Mean in Arlington County

Fraud allegations in Arlington County are treated seriously by prosecutors and law enforcement. Under Virginia law, fraudulent schemes are often charged under obtaining money by false pretenses (Va. Code § 18.2‑178), which is graded as larceny. If the value of the money or property obtained is $1,000 or more, the offense is a felony; below that amount it is a misdemeanor. Additional statutes, such as credit card theft (§ 18.2‑192) and credit card fraud (§ 18.2‑193), identity fraud (§ 18.2‑186.3), and computer fraud (§ 18.2‑152.3), can bring their own sentencing ranges.

In the Arlington County General District Court, a Class 1 misdemeanor fraud conviction carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Felony cases proceed to the Arlington County Circuit Court, where a Class 5 felony (1‑10 years) or Class 6 felony (1‑5 years) may be imposed. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes these matters. Because fraud cases often involve financial records, electronic evidence, and complex factual narratives, building a strong defense early is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates its practice on protecting clients’ rights at every stage, from the initial investigation through trial if necessary.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Fraud Cases

When someone faces a fraud charge in Arlington County, our team takes immediate steps to protect the client’s interests. We closely examine the evidence—whether financial documents, bank records, emails, or witness statements—to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We also evaluate procedural and constitutional issues, such as the lawfulness of searches and interrogations. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, understands the tactics the other side uses, and his Of Counsel team brings diverse backgrounds including former law enforcement experience that can challenge investigative missteps.

In the General District Court, we negotiate with the prosecutor, argue motions, and if appropriate, seek a dismissal or reduction. For felony cases, we conduct a thorough preliminary hearing to test the evidence before the case moves to Circuit Court. Throughout the process, we keep clients fully informed and work toward the most favorable resolution possible—whether that means a dismissal, a reduction of charges, or an acquittal at trial. Every case is different, but our approach is consistent: meticulous preparation, active defense of our clients’ rights, and clear communication.

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 and has testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, Mr. Sris brings a broad multi-state perspective to fraud defense. He leads a team of experienced Of Counsel attorneys who collectively have handled criminal matters in dozens of Virginia counties.

Our Of Counsel team includes attorneys with backgrounds as former prosecutors and former law enforcement officers—giving us insight into how investigations are built and where they can be challenged. This multi-faceted experience is applied to every fraud case we accept. We maintain a collaborative approach, ensuring each client benefits from the full resources of the firm. To discuss your situation with Mr. Sris or a member of his team, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for fraud in Arlington County, Virginia?

The penalty for fraud in Arlington County depends on the value obtained—under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine), while $1,000 or more is a felony with prison time up to 20 years for grand larceny-level offenses. The specific statute charged also matters. For example, credit card fraud (Va. Code § 18.2‑193) is a Class 6 felony if the value exceeds $1,000, punishable by 1‑5 years. Obtaining money by false pretenses (§ 18.2‑178) is treated as larceny, so the punishment is tiered by the amount taken. The court has discretion, and a skilled defense can significantly affect the outcome.

How is a fraud case prosecuted in Arlington County?

A fraud case in Arlington County begins with an investigation by police or a specialized unit, followed by a warrant or indictment. Misdemeanor fraud is tried in the Arlington County General District Court, while felonies start with a preliminary hearing in GDC before moving to the Arlington County Circuit Court for trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney handles the prosecution. Throughout the process, motions to suppress evidence, negotiations about restitution, and challenges to the valuation of the loss can all influence the final result.

Can I get a fraud charge expunged in Virginia?

Expungement in Virginia is generally available only for acquittals, dismissals, or nolle prosequi—not for convictions. Under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2, if your fraud charge was dismissed or you were found not guilty, you may petition the circuit court to expunge the arrest and court records. For first-time offenders who complete a deferred disposition program, a dismissal may also lead to expungement eligibility. A conviction, however, remains on your record unless set aside in limited circumstances. Consulting an attorney about your specific case history is essential.

Do I need a lawyer for a fraud charge in Arlington County?

Yes, because fraud charges carry the possibility of jail time, a criminal record, and lasting collateral consequences for employment, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor conviction can make it difficult to secure housing or certain jobs. An experienced attorney can assess the strength of the evidence, identify defenses you may not see, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights in court. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team have handled fraud matters in Arlington courts and know how to navigate the local system.

What should I do if I am under investigation for fraud?

If you suspect you are under investigation for fraud, refrain from speaking with law enforcement until you have consulted an attorney, and do not discuss the situation with anyone else. Preserve any relevant documents, emails, or records, but do not alter or destroy them. Contact a defense lawyer immediately—early intervention can sometimes prevent charges from being filed or shape how the investigation unfolds. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers consultations by appointment; call (888) 437-7747 to speak with a member of our team.

What makes the firm’s experience valuable in fraud defense?

Our team includes a former prosecutor and attorneys with law enforcement backgrounds, giving us an inside understanding of how fraud cases are built and where they are vulnerable. We know how to scrutinize financial evidence, challenge the valuation of losses, and expose flaws in search warrants or witness statements. Because we have appeared in Arlington County courts for many years, we are familiar with the local judges, procedures, and the approach of the Commonwealth’s Attorney. That familiarity helps us craft defense strategies that are realistic and effective.

Virginia primary sources:
Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses),
Arlington County Circuit Court,
Virginia’s Judicial System.

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Last reviewed: July 2026

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